Nintendo fans have been eagerly anticipating the release of the Switch 2, and recent rumors have been circulating about the potential launch date of the new console. According to a report, Nintendo has given developers working on Switch 2 games a clearer indication of when the new console will be released.
One key detail that has emerged is a new cartridge patent that suggests the Switch 2 will have backwards compatibility. Additionally, component shipment data indicates that the new console may feature two fans, implying a more powerful device compared to its predecessor.
While some rumors have come from less reliable sources, there are reputable insiders who have suggested that the Switch 2 will have strong third-party support from launch. The latest speculation suggests that the console may not be released until after April next year.
GamesIndustry.biz veteran Christopher Dring has stated that Nintendo has advised developers not to expect the Switch 2 to launch until their next financial year, which falls between April 2025 and March 2026. Dring mentioned in a podcast that he has spoken to developers who are hoping for an April or May release, although nothing has been confirmed by Nintendo.
The release date of GTA 6, another highly anticipated game, is also unknown but expected sometime in 2025. Nintendo may prioritize its own launch plans over concerns from Western developers regarding timing.
Given that the original Switch was launched in early March, it is unlikely that its successor will follow the same pattern. If the Switch 2 does not launch in April or May, a release date earlier than September 2025 seems improbable.
While consoles typically launch in late autumn, Nintendo has a history of exceptions, particularly with portable consoles. It is uncertain if previous launch patterns will dictate the release of the Switch 2, leaving the possibility of an early 2026 launch open.
The formal announcement of the new console remains a mystery, with rumors suggesting a potential reveal during a September Nintendo Direct that has been rescheduled to August. However, there could be various reasons for this rescheduling beyond a Switch 2 unveiling.
Ultimately, even Nintendo may not have a definitive release date for the Switch 2 at this time. Fans will have to wait for official confirmation from the company regarding the launch of the highly anticipated console.