The wait is over, and the buzz is real! Nintendo has just unveiled their latest marvel: the Nintendo Switch 2. While the name may be subtle, the console itself promises a host of exciting updates and enhancements. At first glance, it might seem similar to the original Switch, but dive deeper, and you'll uncover 30 intriguing features that showcase the evolution of this beloved hybrid console.

From innovative face buttons to new ways of utilizing the Joy-Con, let's explore everything showcased in the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal trailer.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

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01 - The Nintendo Switch 2 maintains a similar form factor but is slightly larger. The main unit and Joy-Con controllers have grown in size, with the console estimated to be about 15% bigger than its predecessor.

02 - Say goodbye to the vibrant Joy-Con colors of the past. The Switch 2 adopts a sleek, uniform dark grey aesthetic, reminiscent of the Steam Deck, enhancing its modern look.

03 - However, color isn't completely absent. The console pays tribute to the original's red and blue Joy-Con with a colorful ring around each analog stick, extending to the inner edges of both the console and controllers. This not only adds a touch of style but also serves as a color-coded system for easy assembly.

04 - The Joy-Con attachment method has evolved. Instead of sliding onto rails, they now directly slot into the console with a protruding connector that plugs into a port on the Joy-Con. Rumors suggest the use of magnets, similar to Apple's Magsafe technology, to secure them in place.

05 - A new trigger system on the rear of each Joy-Con allows for easy detachment from the main unit. A brief demonstration video on Nintendo.com shows a piston-like mechanism that pushes the controller away upon squeezing the trigger.

06 - The classic control layout remains intact on the Joy-Con front, with offset analog sticks, traditional face buttons, and familiar Plus, Minus, Capture, and Home buttons.

07 - Below the Home button, a mysterious new, unlabelled button awaits. Its function remains a Nintendo secret for now.

08 - The L and R shoulder buttons, along with deeper and more rounded ZL and ZR triggers, promise improved comfort and usability.

09 - The analog sticks feature a low-profile design with smaller inner ring radius and taller rims, designed for better thumb grip and support.

10 - The NFC Amiibo interface might still be present on the right Joy-Con, despite its invisibility in the trailer. The IR sensor from the original right Joy-Con appears to be absent, likely due to its limited use in games.

11 - The SL and SR buttons on the internal edges of the Joy-Con are significantly larger, making them easier to use when playing with individual controllers.

12 - The player-assignment LED strip has moved to the forward-facing edge of the connector strip, improving visibility.

13 - The connector port between the SL and SR buttons, along with a Sync button, mirrors the original Switch's functionality for pairing Joy-Con with the console.

14 - Above the connector port, a small, clear lens hints at a potential laser sensor, suggesting Joy-Con could function like a computer mouse. The trailer supports this with Joy-Con moving like scurrying mice when attached to wrist-straps.

15 - The wrist-straps have been redesigned with matching red and blue colors, complementing the Joy-Con's internal color scheme.

16 - The main console unit features a larger screen, though not as edge-to-edge as the Switch OLED. The display technology remains unspecified, potentially varying between LED and OLED.

17 - The top edge of the console retains the power and volume buttons, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a ventilation grill split into three vents.

18 - The Game Card slot is still located on the top edge, suggesting backwards compatibility with the original Switch's cartridges.

19 - A new USB-C port on the top edge raises questions about its purpose, as the bottom-mounted USB-C port handles docking and charging. Could it be for upcoming peripherals or perhaps a nostalgic link cable feature?

20 - New downward-firing speakers replace the original rear-facing ones, promising improved sound quality.

21 - A full-length kickstand graces the rear of the console, possibly supported by rubber feet to ensure stability. It appears to lock into multiple angles for versatile viewing.

22 - The Switch 2 can still be docked to a TV, with the dock resembling the original but with rounded corners and a prominent Switch 2 logo.

23 - The familiar controller peripheral that houses the Joy-Con also returns, hopefully with ergonomic enhancements.

24 - The reveal trailer teases a new Mario Kart game, featuring a chaotic 24-player starting line, doubling the original Mario Kart 8's capacity.

25 - A new track named "Mario Kart - Mario Bros. Circuit" suggests an American-themed, more open, and off-road racing experience.

26 - The trailer confirms a diverse roster of ten characters: Mario, Luigi, Bowser, Peach, Yoshi, Toad, Donkey Kong, Daisy, Rosalina, and a brief glimpse of Wario.

27 - Backwards compatibility ensures support for old Switch games, though some may not be compatible due to the new Joy-Con design and peripheral changes.

28 - The Nintendo Switch 2 is slated for release in 2025, likely not before June.

29 - More details, including a potential release date, will be shared during a Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2nd.

30 - Following the Direct, fans can experience the console firsthand at the Nintendo Switch 2 Experience tour, running from April to June in cities like New York, Paris, London, Berlin, Melbourne, Tokyo, and Seoul. Nintendo Account holders can enter a free ballot for tickets starting January 17th.

These 30 key details from the Nintendo Switch 2 announcement trailer highlight the exciting advancements in store. Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth coverage on IGN as we approach the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2.