Nintendo's Next-Gen Console "Nintendo Switch 2" Released, Expanding Play with Enhanced Graphics and New Features

On Thursday, June 5, 2025, Nintendo Co., Ltd. released its home gaming console, the "Nintendo Switch 2." The world is buzzing with excitement over the launch of a new console eight years after the original "Nintendo Switch" was released in March 2017.

"Nintendo Switch 2" Arrives

The release day for the "Nintendo Switch 2" finally arrived on Thursday, June 5, 2025. While it might seem like old news, let's quickly recap the features of Nintendo's new console:

Enhanced processing speed and graphics performance
256GB internal storage
7.9-inch display with 1080p/120fps/HDR support
New Joy-Con 2 controllers use magnets for easy attachment/detachment. The buttons and sticks are larger, and they can also function as a mouse.
Enhanced console speakers, built-in microphone, and a free-stop kickstand
"Share Play" allows you to play with people who don't own the software

It also supports backward compatibility, allowing you to play most titles from the original "Nintendo Switch." Combined with the Joy-Con 2's mouse function, the ways to play are further expanded.

4th Lottery Application Period Begins

Application period: Tuesday, June 3, 2025 – Wednesday, June 11, 11:00 AM JST
Lottery results announcement: Scheduled for the afternoon on Tuesday, June 17, 2025
Purchase period for winners: Scheduled for the afternoon on Wednesday, June 18, 2025 – Monday, June 23, 11:00 AM JST
Estimated delivery date: Delivery completed by July 4, 2025 (excluding some remote islands)

The question now is whether the "Nintendo Switch 2" will even be obtainable. Nintendo Co., Ltd. has shown its commitment to getting the product to gamers at regular prices and through official channels by implementing lottery sales with specific requirements and strengthening measures against reselling.

Three lotteries have been held so far, but there are still reports of rejections on social media, indicating that the competition for gamers is likely to continue. Applications for the "4th Lottery Sale" are currently open until Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at 11:00 AM JST.

Peripherals Released Alongside the Console

It's not just the console itself that has evolved. Many new peripherals tailored to the "Nintendo Switch 2"'s specifications have also been released.

Most peripherals for the original "Nintendo Switch" can also be used with the "Nintendo Switch 2," with some exceptions. For more details, please visit the Nintendo Official Website.

Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller

MSRP: 9,980 yen (tax included)
Release Date: Thursday, June 5, 2025
Accessories: USB charging cable

This is a new "Pro Controller" that supports "HD Rumble 2," also featured in the Joy-Con 2, and has added "C buttons" for game chat.

Joy-Con 2 (L)/(R)

MSRP: 9,980 yen (tax included)
Release Date: Thursday, June 5, 2025
Accessories: 2 "Joy-Con 2 Straps"

These are the new "Joy-Cons" with a mouse function. Since the "Nintendo Switch 2" console set includes "Joy-Con 2 (L)/(R)" and two "Joy-Con 2 Straps," purchasing these allows for four-player gameplay.

Joy-Con 2 Strap

MSRP: 1,980 yen (tax included)
Release Date: Thursday, June 5, 2025

This is a standalone strap that can be attached to the "Joy-Con 2." You probably won't need it unless your strap breaks.

Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip

MSRP: 3,980 yen (tax included)
Release Date: Thursday, June 5, 2025
Accessories: USB charging cable

This peripheral allows you to use the Joy-Con 2 L and R controllers as a grip-style controller. Unlike the "Joy-Con 2 Grip" included with the "Nintendo Switch 2" console set, this one supports charging while in use.

Joy-Con 2 Wheel 2-Pack

MSRP: 2,480 yen (tax included)
Release Date: Thursday, June 5, 2025

This peripheral allows for even more intuitive control in racing games like the traditional "Mario Kart 8 Deluxe," as well as "Mario Kart World," released on the same day. Joy-Con 2 controllers are not included.

Nintendo Switch 2 Dock Set

MSRP: 14,980 yen (tax included)
Release Date: Thursday, June 5, 2025
Contents: Nintendo Switch 2 Dock, Nintendo Switch 2 AC Adapter, Ultra High-Speed HDMI Cable

This is a standalone sale of the dock set that is also included with the "Nintendo Switch 2" console set. It saves you the hassle of re-cabling when you want to play in different rooms, such as the living room and a child's room.

Nintendo Switch 2 Camera

MSRP: 5,980 yen (tax included)
Release Date: Thursday, June 5, 2025
Accessories: USB-C charging cable

This is a dedicated USB camera for the "Nintendo Switch 2." It enables easy video chat with the new chat mode and can be used for camera play in some titles, where your own image is used in gameplay. It also features a physical privacy shutter to prevent unexpected security incidents.

Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case

MSRP: 2,980 yen (tax included)
Release Date: Thursday, June 5, 2025
Contents: Carrying case, screen protector, cleaning cloth

This is a convenient carrying case for transporting your "Nintendo Switch 2." It also includes a screen protector and a cleaning cloth.

Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case

MSRP: 9,980 yen (tax included)
Release Date: Thursday, June 5, 2025

This case can store the "Nintendo Switch 2" console, Joy-Con 2 controllers, Nintendo Switch 2 Dock, and even cables. If you carry a compact projector with it, you can enjoy playing on a big screen anytime, anywhere.

Nintendo Switch 2 AC Adapter

MSRP: 3,980 yen (tax included)
Release Date: Thursday, June 5, 2025
Accessories: USB-C charging cable

This is a standalone AC adapter that can be connected to the "Nintendo Switch 2" console or dock. Input is "AC 100V-240V 50/60Hz 1.6A," and output is "DC 5.0V/3.0A, 9.0V/3.0A, 15.0V/3.0A, 20.0V/3.0A."