December 24,2024
The gaming world is abuzz with anticipation as the countdown to Nintendo’s next console begins. With the Switch 2 announcement expected by March 2025, leaks and rumours are starting to shed light on what gamers can expect. From its design to its compatibility, here’s everything we know so far.
Nintendo has officially stated that an announcement regarding its next-generation console will arrive before the end of its fiscal year. As the current Nintendo Switch approaches an impressive 160 million units sold, the next iteration has some big shoes to fill. Enthusiasts and analysts alike are eager to see how Nintendo plans to build on the legacy of one of the most successful gaming consoles in history.
Dbrand, a well-known maker of custom skins and cases, has added fuel to the fire with a revealing product listing. The company recently published details of a new case, the "Killswitch 2," designed specifically for the Nintendo Switch 2. This preemptive launch has sparked debate about its accuracy and implications.
Dbrand has just launched a sign-up page for a Nintendo Switch 2 protective case, giving us the first idea from a major accessories manufacturer of what Nintendo‘s upcoming console might look like.
While there’s yet to be any official communication by the Japanese games giant about its rumoured and much-anticipated next console, it’s often the case that third-party manufacturers are sent CAD files of a first-party product in advance that detail its basic dimensions and structural design – this is to allow them to design and produce their products (like peripherals and accessories) ahead of time, ready to be released alongside the first-party product in question. This means the Canadian brand’s renders are quite likely a good indication of what the new Switch is going to look like.
If nothing else, Dbrand’s images seem to confirm that the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 will be quite similar to the original in terms of its design – this is a rumour that’s been doing the rounds online recently, but one that hasn’t been backed up with anything as concrete as this before now.
Check out Dbrand’s Nintendo Switch 2 “Killswitch” case here and stay tuned for official news on Nintendo’s new console.
According to Dbrand’s CEO Adam Ijaz, the case dimensions are based on "the actual dimensions" of the unreleased console. Ijaz even claimed they obtained this information via a 3D scan of the device itself. When asked how they acquired these details, his cryptic response to The Verge was, "Nice try, Nintendo."
Based on Dbrand’s disclosures, the Nintendo Switch 2 is expected to measure 270 mm wide, 116 mm tall, and 14 mm thick. These dimensions make it slightly larger than the Switch OLED, which measures 242x102x13.9 mm. The new console’s screen is tipped to have an 8-inch diagonal, a noticeable upgrade from the 7-inch OLED model and the 6.2-inch screen of the original Switch.
The new dimensions are not the only noteworthy changes. Dbrand’s case design also hints at the addition of a second USB-C port. This could allow users to charge the console more conveniently while it’s docked or resting on a stand.
Additionally, a mysterious new button on the right-hand Joy-Con has caught the attention of fans. Dubbed the “C button,” this square-shaped feature could indicate new gameplay mechanics or additional functionality. This speculation aligns with a prototype seen by the YouTube channel SwitchUp, which also noted a larger overall design and the same button placement.
For fans heavily invested in their Switch game libraries, there’s good news. The Nintendo Switch 2 is expected to support games from its predecessor. This backward compatibility ensures that players won’t have to start their collections from scratch, which has been a significant concern for many.
One of the biggest mysteries surrounding the Switch 2 is its screen technology. While many hope for an OLED screen similar to the Switch OLED model, some rumours suggest Nintendo might opt for an LCD screen to keep costs down. Fans remain divided, with some prioritising affordability and others demanding premium display quality.
The Switch 2’s Joy-Con controllers appear to be undergoing an upgrade. Alongside the "C button," there are whispers of improved ergonomics and enhanced durability. These updates would address long-standing criticisms of the original Joy-Cons, particularly issues like "drift" that plagued earlier models.
Dbrand’s early product launch for the Switch 2 has sparked significant discussion. While it’s not unusual for accessory manufacturers to prepare for upcoming devices, basing products on leaked dimensions is a bold move. It demonstrates confidence in their sources but also opens the company to potential backlash if the dimensions are inaccurate.
Beyond the design and compatibility, several other features are rumoured for the Switch 2. These include:
While leaks and rumours paint a promising picture, several key questions remain unanswered:
The Nintendo Switch 2 comes at a pivotal time for the company. As competitors like Sony and Microsoft continue to push the boundaries of gaming technology, Nintendo’s innovation and unique approach remain its strongest assets. The success of the Switch 2 will likely depend on its ability to balance innovation with the beloved features that made the original Switch a household favourite.
The Nintendo Switch 2 promises to be a significant leap forward for the gaming community. While many details remain speculative, the information so far has only heightened anticipation. With an official announcement expected within months, fans won’t have to wait long to see how Nintendo plans to shape the future of gaming.
When will the Nintendo Switch 2 be announced?
Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 announcement will occur by March 2025.
What are the dimensions of the Nintendo Switch 2?
Based on leaks, the Switch 2 measures 270 mm wide, 116 mm tall, and 14 mm thick.
Will the Switch 2 support current Switch games?
Yes, the console is expected to be backwards-compatible with existing Switch titles.
What is the screen size of the Switch 2?
The console is rumoured to feature an 8-inch screen, larger than the Switch OLED’s 7-inch display.
What new features can we expect?
Leaks suggest the addition of a second USB-C port and a new "C button" on the Joy-Con controllers.