Nintendo Switch 2 Direct countdown live — start time, pre-order rumors and latest news
Switch 2 showcase is almost here...
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 is almost here. In less than 24 hours, Nintendo will lift the lid on its upcoming Switch 2 console.
Set for Wednesday, April 2, this showcase is expected to finally confirm the Switch 2's release date and the all-important price. The latest rumors tip the console for a June launch and a $399 price tag. And Switch 2 pre-orders could go live following the conclusion of the Direct.
Nintendo Switch 2 games are also expected to be revealed during the showcase. We already know a new Mario Kart is heading to the second-generation Switch, but that'll be just the start of the software showcased during this presentation.
The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct promises the answers we’ve been craving for far too long, and we'll be covering the entire live event before, during and after in this dedicated Switch 2 Direct live blog.
Nintendo Switch 2 Direct — Start time and how to watch
Nintendo Switch 2 Direct is set for Wed., April 2 at 9 a.m. ET / 6 a.m. PT / 2 p.m. BST. It will air on Nintendo’s YouTube and Twitch channels. You'll be able to watch it via the embedded link down below.
What we expect at Nintendo Switch 2 Direct
Nintendo is being very coy with details on what will be shown during this Switch 2 presentation. The gaming giant has offered nothing more stating it will offer “a closer look at Nintendo Switch 2" and will run 60 minutes long.
The console’s price and firm release date seem a near-certainty, and we also expect to get more details about the upcoming Mario Kart game teased in the first reveal back in January.
Otherwise, things are rather mysterious. There are a lot of rumored Switch 2 games already, and several of these could be confirmed in the Nintendo Direct. I’m also predicting we’ll see some Nintendo Switch 2 accessories, perhaps even a new version of the Switch Pro controller.
Switch 2 Direct latest updates
Virtual Game Cards are a game-changer
One of the more interesting bits revealed in last week's Nintendo Direct was Nintendo's new "Virtual Game Cards."
What are Virtual Game Cards? They effectively turn your digital games into "game cards" that you can lend to family group members for up to two weeks at a time. The new feature also enables you to move games across Switch systems.
Basically, Nintendo finally has a library that you can take with you where you "eject" digital games from one system and can play them on another. We imagine this will come in handy if you want to transfer your library from the Switch to a new Switch 2 system.
Virtual Game Cards are coming in April via an update, and they're going to be available on both the original Switch and the Switch 2.
Nintendo Switch 2 trade-in deals just leaked from GameStop
We're less than 24 hours away from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct event, where Nintendo is expected to offer an in-depth look at its highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2. Although Nintendo has yet to confirm a release date or price, one retailer has reportedly leaked its Switch 2 trade-in deal.
GameStop will offer up to a $175 trade-in credit when you trade in your old Switch for the Switch 2, according to X user MikeOdysseyYT and as reported by sister site TechRadar. That's one of the first Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders deals we've seen.
Back in the PS5 restock days, GameStop required gamers to sign up for its $25/year PowerUp Reward Pro program before buying a PS5. This leak makes no mention of a membership requirement, which suggests buying a Switch 2 could be easier.
Although a handful of retailers such as Walmart and Best Buy are allowing gamers to "register" for the Switch 2, none have released pricing or trade-in info. The new console is expected to boast a larger screen, a better kickstand, and better Joy-Cons that attach magnetically to the console.
It's expected pre-orders could begin April 2 or April 9. Make sure to follow our Nintendo Switch 2 Direct live blog for the latest announcements.
Potential future Switch 2 models
The original Nintendo Switch came in three flavors: the base model, a Lite version and another with an OLED panel.
If the Switch 2 follows a similar path, then don't expect all three of these versions to be available at launch. What's most likely to happen is that Nintendo launches the base model this year. In another year or so, we could see a smaller Switch Lite 2. After that, the company could release an OLED Switch 2.
That's all speculation on our part, but given Nintendo's track record of releasing multiple versions of its best-selling systems, it's a safe bet there will be more than one Switch 2 model. We just have to wait and see what the company will ultimately release.
Switch 2: A potential Steam Deck rival
Valve's Steam Deck was seen as a Nintendo Switch alternative for those who wanted a more powerful handheld and wider third-party support. However, this situation could be reversed when the Switch 2 arrives.
Right now, graphically demanding games like Indiana Jones and the Great Circle and Monster Hunter Wilds have trouble running on the Steam Deck, if they can even run at all. The system is getting long in the tooth, but this could give Switch 2, with its updated internal components, a chance to dethrone the Steam Deck as the potential go-to for third-party games.
We don't yet know the Switch 2's official specs, but if rumors are true, the system could potentially be as powerful as a PS4 or PS4 Pro. If that's the case, then the doors are open for a flood of third-party games that couldn't run on the original Switch. And if the Switch 2 has a more updated AMD chip than the Steam Deck, it's possible some third-party games could run better on Nintendo's handheld.
When will the Nintendo Switch 2 ship?
The Switch 2-focused Direct happens tomorrow (April 2) and rumors suggest pre-orders will go live on April 9. The lingering question is, when will the Nintendo Switch 2 actually start shipping?
According to Insider Gaming, the Switch 2 will begin shipping in June. That differs from the Switch 1's March launch date and the usual holiday launch date of November. If pre-orders start next week and the console releases in June, then Nintendo will only have about two months to market the system.
That's a tight window, but considering the hype surrounding the Switch 2, a long marketing campaign probably isn't needed. But as we posted before, the bigger question will be if there's enough stock to satisfy customers' demand for Switch 2.
Nintendo Switch 2 potential launch games
Nintendo hasn't said anything about the Switch 2's launch lineup. However, we can speculate on which titles might be good contenders.
We saw brief glimpses of a new Mario Kart game during the Switch 2 reveal, so that might be a launch title. Mario Kart 8 was the best-selling game on the original Switch, so having its direct sequel as a launch game would give the Switch 2 a major boost.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is due sometime this year, though it's hard to say if it will be a Switch 2 launch title. If Mario Kart 9 drops alongside the system, Nintendo might want to keep Metroid Prime 4 as a holiday title to bolster Switch 2 sales during that time.
It's also important to note that Switch games will reportedly work on Switch 2. So if you can't find a physical copy of a new game, you can at least fall back on playing titles you already own.
Is the "C button" real?
Nintendo has teased Switch 2's new C button ahead of the Direct tomorrow https://t.co/4SyXfifn56 pic.twitter.com/DAKZXPJnGCApril 1, 2025
We've been hearing rumors of a "C button" for the Nintendo Switch 2 ever since the console was announced. Nintendo has yet to confirm this button, but the evidence is piling.
It's technically April 2 in Japan, and it appears Switch 2 hype is already ramping up there. In a video posted on the Nintendo Today! app (via Nintendo Everything), we get to see the C button in action. Said video doesn't say what the button does, but it's possible the "C" stands for "chat." If so, this could be how you connect with others.
This seems pretty legit, but considering how it's April Fool's Day, take this video with a healthy dose of skepticism.
Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders might sell out fast
Nintendo has previously said it plans to fight scalpers by shipping a vast quantity of Switch 2 units. That's good news since it should mean anyone who wants a Switch 2 can buy one. However, based on a recent report, stock might be limited at certain retailers.
According to Insider Gaming (via The Shortcut), the site has seen "internal documents" from a "large US retailer" that believes the Switch 2 will sell out on the same day pre-orders go live. That's because there is a "limited allocation" at the store from Nintendo. That's concerning considering Nintendo's promise that there will be enough Switch 2 consoles available.
As always, take this report with a grain of salt. That said, don't be surprised if you can't get a Switch 2 right away. Regardless, be sure to keep an eye on our Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order page for all the latest updates.
Here's the Switch 2 Direct YouTube link
Nintendo has today (April 1) gone live with the Switch 2 Direct broadcast link over on YouTube. I promise this is no April Fools. Right now, you can head over to YouTube, and prepare yourself for the upcoming event in just 22 hours.
Okay, so you probably don't want to screen at a bright red splash screen for almost an entire day, but you can now bookmark this page and return tomorrow (or why not just watch via the embedded link above?).
Plus, if you're the forgetful type, you can click the "Notify me" button in the bottom left-hand corner and you'll get a little notification message ahead of the stream going live. Of course, we'll also notify you of that in this live blog!
Nintendo confirms 2 more Switch 2 live streams
Nintendo has announced an additional pair of Nintendo Switch 2 live streams which will be part of the Nintendo Treehouse brand via its X account.
The first will be held on Thursday, April 3 at 10 a.m. ET / 7 a.m. PT / 3 p.m. BST, followed by one on Friday, April 4 in the same time slot. These two presents promise to include "hands-on Switch 2 gameplay.
If you've never heard of Nintendo Treehouse, it's a livestream format that typically sees developers and/or Nintendo executives interviewed while showcasing their latest games. Nintendo has previously held Treehouse streams during flagship gaming events such as the (now defunct) E3.
We don't know exactly how long these Treehouse streams will be but they look set to offer an extended look at some of the games revealed during the upcoming Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 presentation on April 2.
Nintendo confirms a 60-minute showcase
I've just had a press release through from Nintendo with details of the Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 presentation, and while most of the information is stuff we already knew (like the date/time), one tidbit that stands out is confirmation "the livestream will be around 60 minutes long."
So, we now know for sure we can expect a whole hour of Switch 2 goodness in less than 24 hours time. The press release doesn't detail any games that will be showcased during the Direct, but we can safety assume both the hardware and some software will be included. After all, there's an entire hour to fill.
Switch 2 pre-order guide for our Aussie readers
If you're fortunate enough to live down under in the beautiful land of Australia, then you'll want to check out our brand new Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order guide which is dedicated to helping you buy a console in the country.
This guide has been put together by the restock experts in the Tom's Guide Australia team and is packed with all the information you'll need to secure a console when the pre-order period begins. Plus, it'll be updated throughout the week (and beyond) with the latest Switch 2 pre-order updates and links.
Switch rumors — a complete timeline
We're just over 24 hours from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, and I've been reflecting on how we got to this point. While the Switch 2 was confirmed back in January, there's been rumors and speculation about the device for years.
At one point, the Switch 2 was rumored to be known as the Nintendo Switch Pro, and was thought to be merely a mid-generation upgrade (think PS5 to PS5 Pro). However, eventually it became clear the next Switch would be a full generation leap, and as we entered 2024 the rumors really started to ramp up.
If you want to take a stroll down memory lane, and see how we got to this point, check out our Nintendo Switch 2 rumors timeline which chronicles rumors from as far back as 2022, when we first caught wind of a follow-up.
Switch 2 may not be the 4K device of our dreams
While the PS5 Pro is touting it's (somewhat limited) 8K capabilities, a new rumor is suggesting Switch 2 may be lacking the 4K features many of us had assumed would be a given.
According to Tom Henderson of Insider Gaming, select developers are now receiving Switch 2 dev kits (essentially the hardware needed to develop games for Nintendo Switch 2), and "at least some of the dev kits" don't support 4K.
Expecting Switch 2 to offer 4K visuals in handheld mode was always something of a pipe dream, but there had been theories the hybrid console would offer the resolution in docked mode (with handheld opting for 1080p).
This rumor certainly pours some cold water on those dreams, but it's important to note Henderson's use of the word "some." Perhaps suggesting multiple dev kits are being distributed, some of which might offer 4K options.
Will have to wait until Nintendo fully reveals the Switch 2 specs, likely on Wednesday or shortly afterward, before we know for certain if the console will be capable of 4K visuals, but this rumor certainly raises a doubt in my mind.
It's time for Mario's next 3D adventure
If you'll indulge me, allow me to return to the world of wild speculation for a moment. The Nintendo Switch 2 feels like the perfect time for the next 3D Mario adventure. We've not had a brand new 3D Mario title since 2017's Super Mario Odyssey, and the Italian plumber seems primed to return to 3D worlds.
Now, I don't expect a new 3D Mario game to be part of the Switch 2's launch lineup. If the console is going to launch with Mario Kart, I suspect Nintendo won't want to overload on Mario and will want his latest kart-racing escapade to have the spotlight all to itself. However, a new 3D Mario could be the perfect title to really supercharge the Switch 2's first holiday season on the market.
As much as I loved Mario Odyssey, and would certainly take a direct sequel to that game (ala Super Mario Galaxy 2), I'm hoping that Nintendo opts instead for something completely new. Either way, 3D Mario games are consistently excellent (even the rough-edged Super Mario Sunshine has its charms), so wherever the plumber's next 3D adventure takes him I have faith it'll be great.
New Switch 2 image hides a potential clue
It's day two of our Switch 2 Direct live blog as we build up to the event itself which is just a little over 24 hours away. We're kicking off today (April 1) with a brand new look at the Nintendo Switch 2 courtesy of the Nintendo Today app.
The official Nintendo news app was announced (and released) during last week's Nintendo Direct, and it's been updated with a post reading "One Day To Go" accompanied by a glimpse at the Switch 2 in all three configurations.
The console in handheld and TV mode isn't exactly groundbreaking — we've seen the Switch 2 from all angles in the initial reveal video — but the shot of it in tabletop mode is rather more intriguing.
In this mode, we see the right Joy-Con turned on its side in a way that could be a tease at the much-rumored "mouse mode" which will allow a Joy-Con to be used in the same way as a computer mouse. Very sneaky, Nintendo!
Tune in tomorrow for more news
The Nintendo Direct doesn't take place until Wednesday, April 2, but there will be more teases tomorrow, April 1, and more rumors to consider before the big event.
Keep it tuned to Tom's Guide for everything Nintendo as we scope out the latest information about the Switch 2 before, during and after the next Nintendo Direct.
In the meantime, check out our huge Nintendo Switch 2 hub where we traced the rumor history of the console, what we know now, and what we hope the Switch 2 is capable of.
Switch vs Switch 2
Based on what rumors we've seen, the Switch 2 should be more powerful, bigger, and come with some new features that the original Switch doesn't.
We've broken down those differences here and why the leaked upgrades are important.
7 biggest questions that need answers
The hype train is in full effect and its racing ahead of the rumor mill that is still grinding away, but ahead of the direct there are a few questions we hope Nintendo answers during the Direct on Wednesday.
- Display - What kind of display will the console feature. We hoped for an OLED panel but recent rumors point toward an LCD screen, possibly to save costs.
- Joy-Con Mouse - How does that teased mouse mode work? The controllers are supposed to have an optical sensor, but what will it be capable of
- C button - What does that C button do? One rumor claimed it was for connecting a Switch 1 as second screen, but most point to some sort of social or chat component.
- Power - It's supposed to have a new Nvidia chip, but how much more powerful will the Switch 2 be?
- Docked mode - Is the new dock different and what does it enable? Rumor point to a beefier dock for more powerful gaming
- Price - Nintendo has said the right things about keeping the Switch 2 affordable, but how much will it really cost?
- Launch games - Finally, what games will we be able to play beyond Mario Kart 9. A console is only as good as its games.
No plan B (report)
Bloomberg released a massive report about the Switch 2 this week that lays out a case for Nintendo suffering from a boom and bust cycle for its consoles.
It's fairly lengthy read if you have the time for it.
Simply, since the Japanese company only really makes one thing, it is heavily reliant on both console sales and the sale of games made for that console (usually made by Nintendo).
The Wii was a success until it wasn't but the DS handheld bolstered the company. The Wii U was a failure but the original Switch blasted Nintendo into the profit stratosphere. And similar to titles like Mario Kart 8 on Switch compared to the Wii U and Breath of the Wild which was meant for the Wii U but was delayed until its Switch launch.
According to the report, Nintendo seems well aware of this cycle and looks to be attempting to avoid it this time around.
A new competitor
On one level, Nintendo doesn't really compete in the console wars with PlayStation and Xbox. The company is successfully kind of doing its own thing.
On the other hand, the Switch augured the future of handheld consoles with the Steam Deck launching five years after the original Switch.
The question is whether or not handheld PCs will take a bite out of Nintendo's Apple.
And we may find out soon as Xbox and Asus are teaming up for the first Xbox-branded handheld console.
Today, Asus teased the partnership with a new video that hints the next ROG Ally console. Details are sparse but we'll know more in the coming months.
Nintendo teases JoyCon mouse controls
During its Switch 2 teaser event in January, Nintendo briefly showed the redesigned Joy-Con controllers being used in a mouse-like fashion.
This seemingly confirmed that at least one of the Joy-Con controllers would feature an optical sensor.
In the new Nintendo app, the company has been counting down the days until the April 2 Nintendo Direct, where more technical details about the console is to be launched.
In Japan, where it is already April 1, the "1 Day" countdown is live and seems to show an image of the Joy-Con set up like a mouse.
I am based on the U.S. west coast and couldn't confirm it directly, but an image was sent to Video Game Chronicles by a Japanese reader.
This isn't the first time, the new Nintendo Today news app has seemingly inadvertently revealed a new Switch 2 feature.
Bookmark our Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order hub!
As of March 31 at 1:30 p.m. ET, there isn't a confirmed Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order date. But that doesn't mean we haven't had some hints.
A (since deleted) Best Buy blog post reads “Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 will open on April 2nd." The retailer notes the pre-order window will "give you the chance to secure your console early."
At first, it seemed like this was the confirmation we've wanted, however, Tom Henderson at Insider Gaming threw a spanner in the works with a report suggesting Switch 2 pre-orders begin April 9.
Henderson's scoop comes via "internal emails and documents" from a major U.S. retailer, which the high-profile leaker claims to have seen (though no proof has been provided). So, at this stage, we're still waiting for Nintendo to speak on the record and confirm a date.
Make sure you bookmark our Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order hub for all the latest updates. The instant pre-orders go live at retailers, we'll be the first to tell you.
Devs still waiting on Nintendo Switch 2 dev kits (report)
Last week, Insider Gaming reported on Nintendo's “three-phase strategy” for Switch 2 games. In that same report, the site said that many developers had not yet received Switch 2 development kits, which raised questions about what games we could see at launch. Now, Digital Foundry's John Linneman has corroborated Insider Gaming's report (via The Game Post).
“Based on a lot of the things I’ve heard, it also seems like many, many, many, many developers are still without kit," said Linneman on the latest episode of the DF Direct Weekly podcast. "So they are very slow at rolling this out to a lot of developers. I think there will be third-party games early on, of course. It just seems like a lot of medium to small developers still do not have access to development hardware. So, Nintendo has been very selective with who they allow to do it.”
The initial phase will be first-party games at launch, the second beginning in October with third-party releases, and the final phase taking place over the holidays. If true, this could be why Nintendo has reportedly not given out development kits. The company wants to focus on first-party efforts before delivering third-party titles. It's also possible Nintendo is waiting until the last minute to avoid potential hardware leaks.
Take these reports with a healthy dose of skepticism. But if true, we hope third-party developers have plenty of time to develop games for Nintendo's upcoming handheld/console hybrid system.
Will Metroid Prime 4 be a cross-gen title?
With the Wii U and Nintendo Switch, the company released at least one major first-party game for both the previous and current-gen systems (The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess and Breath of the Wild, respectively). Now that Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is officially slated for 2025, we have to wonder if this game will be on Switch 1 and Switch 2.
It's not an unreasonable proposition. The game was originally announced for the original Switch, so it wouldn't look good if it were effectively canceled in favor of a Switch 2 version. Not only that, but with over 150 million Switch units sold, it would be smart for Nintendo to make this hotly-anticipated title available on the system.
This is all speculation on our part, but we won't be surprised if Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is a cross-gen game that Switch 1 and Switch 2 owners can get to enjoy.
Nintendo's plan to fight Switch 2 scalpers
As we've previously reported, Nintendo has confirmed it’s “making preparations” to ensure the upcoming launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 won’t be spoiled by scalpers.
During an interview with Japanese publication Nikkei (and translated by the folks over at VGC), Nintendo’s president Shuntaro Furukawa was quizzed on the company’s plans to ensure a smooth launch and avoid the rampant stock shortages that plagued the original Switch’s first-year on the market, and which subsequently resurfaced in 2020 and 2021.
“We will take all possible measures based on the experience we have accumulated to date (regarding scalpers and the like). We are making preparations,” said Furukawa.
While there was no further elaboration on what these specific “measures” will be, it’s at least comforting to know that Nintendo is aware of the potential problem and taking preemptive measures. Whether said measures will work remains to be seen.
Shop for Switch 1 games while you wait
The Switch 2 Direct isn't until later this week (reminder it's on Wed. April 2), so you might be looking for something to help pass the time, and that's where this epic Nintendo Switch sale can help. There are deals from just $3 right now.
Remember, the Switch 2 is confirmed to offer backward compatibility features so you may be able to play any Switch 1 games you buy now on the next-gen console when it launches later this year. So, don't feel like picking up a first-gen Switch title at this point is just wasting your money. Bring it with you!
My favorite deal at present is The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom for $44 at Woot. That's a sizeable saving compared to its $69 MSRP, and frankly, it's such a masterpiece, that it was easily worth buying at full price.
Switch 2 vs. Steam Deck
We shouldn't forget that the Nintendo Switch 2 is set to be launched into a very different handheld gaming market than its predecessor. Back in 2017, your options for on-the-go gaming were largely either mobile or the 3DS (perhaps an aged PlayStation Vita in a pinch) but now portable PCs have rocketed in popularity, spearheaded by the truly fantastic Valve Steam Deck.
The big question is can Nintendo Switch 2 compete in this increasingly crowded space, and does its USP of gaming anywhere still have the same clout as it did 8 years ago? Switch 2 vs. Steam Deck will be a fascinating battle.
One of my favorite games of all time could be heading to Switch 2
I positively fell in love with Elden Ring when I played it for the first time back in 2022. It was the game that made me a Souls game fan. Now, three years, and three playthroughs later and I'm eager to jump back into the Lands Between.
The good news is according to a rumor spotted by Notebookcheck, Elden Ring could be heading to Nintendo Switch 2. This feels like the perfect launch title as it would showcase the leap forward in raw gaming power compared to the base Switch. I think if you tried to run Elden Ring on Switch 1 it would melt.
The source of this rumor is once again Spanish YouTuber eXtas1s, which isn't a source I'm especially familiar with, so I'm filing this one as "unverified" for now but I'm keeping my fingers crossed it's true as Elden Ring is one of those titles that I'll buy for every single system it's available on. It's a true masterpiece.
Switch 2 launch games I want to see
Of course, a video game console is only as good as the games you can play on it, and that's why I've been dreaming up my dream lineup of Nintendo Switch 2 launch games. Yes, the obvious picks like a new Mario Kart and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond are on there, but I'd also love to see some fresh ideas like a new IP from Nintendo, and also some ports of blockbuster games too big to fit on the original Nintendo Switch like Elden Ring and maybe even GTA 5!
Switch 2 rumor hints at the return of the Wii U (sort of)
I always advise you should take every Switch 2 rumor with a healthy grain of salt, but for this one, you might want an entire scoop of the stuff. A new Switch 2 rumor claims that the mysterious "C" button which will reportedly appear on the right Joy-Con controller will be used to connect a Switch 2 to a Switch unit.
This would allow for a dual-screen setup and for the Nintendo Switch 2 to effectively mimic the USP of the Nintendo Wii U. This rumor comes from Spanish YouTuber eXstas1s, who posted a new video discussing the uses of the C button. Nintendo had quite an interest in dual-screen gaming through the 2000s-2010s with the Nintendo DS range and the aforementioned Wii U.
I don't like to dismiss rumors out of hand, but with this one, I've got to say it certainly seems well outside the realm of plausibility. Being able to sync up a Switch 2 and a Switch 1 seems outlandish, but the suggestion that an entire button will be dedicated to this feature seems extremely fanciful. I can't see it.
Switch 2 could learn a lesson from 3DS
While we're talking about Nintendo Switch 2 features we'd like to see, staff writer Martin Shore has argued that Switch 2 needs a more customizable interface than its predecessor (Which offers very little in the way of themes).
The current Nintendo Switch offers just two themes, the default white, and a secondary option that is essentially a Dark Mode. It's a far cry from the days of the Nintendo 3DS where your home screen could be awash with various colors and you could even select specific music to play in the background as well.
5 features that would make Switch 2 the perfect handheld
Over the weekend, freelance contributor, Daryl Baxter compiled a list of five features Nintendo Switch 2 needs to be the ultimate gaming handheld. And these aren't your run-of-the-mill features like more powerful internal components or longer battery life. Daryl's wishlist includes some pretty unique picks including glowing Joy-Cons, solar-powered charging and Street Pass 2 (yes, really). Give the full list a read via the link above, and let us know what features you think the Nintendo Switch 2 must have to be a handheld success.
Switch 2 pre-orders could go live next week
One of the biggest questions now is "When will Switch 2 pre-orders go live?" And courtesy of Tom Henderson at Insider Gaming we might have a clue.
The well-known industry insider claims to have seen internal emails and documents from a source at a major U.S. retailer which point to Switch 2 pre-orders beginning on April 9. This would be later than previously expected, but would at least give eager gamers a week to get prepared following the Direct.
Henderson also reports that retailers expect Switch 2 pre-order allocations to sell out on the same day, so be sure to bookmark our Switch 2 pre-order hub for the latest updates, and those important retailer links when the time comes.
The Switch 2 story so far
If you've been out of the loop on Nintendo Switch 2, you've got a lot of catching up to. We have a dedicated Switch 2 launch hub to guide you through from the earliest rumors to the console's unveiling back in January.
However, if you're short on time, the most important information can be found in the linked video above: The Switch 2's "first-look trailer." This two-minute video gave us our first look at Nintendo's upcoming console and also appears to have confirmed that a new Mario Kart title will be released on the system.
Welcome!
Welcome to Tom’s Guide’s live coverage of the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct. Here we’ll guide you through the entire reveal event from beginning to end and also cover the latest rumors, speculation and predictions as we build up to the big moment when the lid is at last fully lifted on the Switch 2. It’s going to be an unmissable event for Nintendo fans, and we'll be here every step of the way.
