Nintendo Switch 2 is coming this year, with a full Nintendo Switch 2 Direct in April

Nintendo Switch 2
(Image credit: Nintendo)

The Nintendo Switch 2 has been confirmed, and we'll find out more about it in a Nintendo Direct focused on the new console that's coming in early April.

In a video released a few minutes ago, Nintendo showed off the new-look console, confirmed a 2025 release date, backwards compatibility, and a Nintendo Direct dedicated to the Nintendo Switch 2 that will air on April 2. You can check that trailer out below.

In the video, we get a very up-close-and-personal breakdown of the differences between the two consoles. Top of the list are new ports, an improved rest that allows it to sit almost vertical on a surface, and enhanced joycons, but it does look as though the Nintendo Switch 2 is pretty similar to what made the Switch 1 special in the first place. Interestingly, some real close-ups on the analog sticks implies that Nintendo might be trying to tell us that it's taken a closer look at the stick-drift issue that plagued the original console.

Nintendo Switch 2 – First-look trailer - YouTube Nintendo Switch 2 – First-look trailer - YouTube
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The console is called Nintendo Switch 2, which should alleviate any concerns about a repeat of the WiiU era's console downturn, and Nintendo has also confirmed it's out this year. Even better news is that Nintendo Switch 2 will play both physical and digital games from its predecessor, and while certain games may not be fully compatible with the new console, it does seem as though backwards compatibility is a major feature.

We'll find out more in the Nintendo Switch 2 Nintendo Direct that's scheduled for April 2, meaning there's not too long to wait for more info. I'd imagine that'll give us a closer look at features, games, and a potential release window, so stay tuned.

Keep up to date with our Nintendo Switch 2 live coverage.

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Ali Jones
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I'm GamesRadar's news editor, working with the team to deliver breaking news from across the industry. I started my journalistic career while getting my degree in English Literature at the University of Warwick, where I also worked as Games Editor on the student newspaper, The Boar. Since then, I've run the news sections at PCGamesN and Kotaku UK, and also regularly contributed to PC Gamer. As you might be able to tell, PC is my platform of choice, so you can regularly find me playing League of Legends or Steam's latest indie hit.