Nintendo enthusiasts, rejoice! On Wednesday, Nintendo unveiled its latest innovation, the Switch 2, a hybrid console that blends handheld and docked gaming. After years of rumors, we now have a clear view of this highly anticipated device.

While the Switch 2 boasts a sleek, compact design with impressive power, it doesn’t include the mythical mini-Reggie in its GPU. After analyzing every detail from the Nintendo Direct—dissecting each word, screenshot, and video frame—we’ve compiled concrete details about how the Switch 2 surpasses its predecessor.

Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery

1. Enhanced Graphics Performance

The Switch 2 delivers significantly more graphical power than its predecessor. While the original Switch, launched in 2017, lagged behind competitors like Sony and Xbox, the Switch 2 addresses these shortcomings. It struggled with demanding games, but the new console promises handheld resolutions up to 1080p and docked 4K with HDR, supporting framerates up to 120 fps. This upgrade enables a broader range of games, with EA and 2K bringing sports titles like soccer, football, wrestling, and basketball to the platform.

Third-party developers showcased current-gen titles like Elden Ring and Street Fighter 6, demonstrating the Switch 2’s ability to handle high-performance games. Nintendo’s first-party titles also looked stunning, signaling a major leap forward.

2. GameCube Classics on Switch 2

Nintendo Switch Online now includes GameCube titles, but only on Switch 2. This creates a divide between the original Switch and its successor, requiring users to upgrade for access to retro gems like The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker, F-Zero GX, and Soul Calibur 2 featuring Link.

Soul Calibur 2 is a standout, offering thrilling multiplayer battles. If you haven’t played it with friends, you’re in for a treat.

3. Robust Online Connectivity

Nintendo has revolutionized its online features with Switch 2. Gone are the days of cumbersome Friend Codes. The new GameChat system offers seamless communication, including noise-canceling mics, optional desktop cameras for video sharing, and remote screen-sharing capabilities. These tools bring Nintendo’s online experience in line with modern platforms, making multiplayer gaming with friends effortless.

This opens exciting possibilities, especially for games like Monster Hunter, where teams can strategize using shared screens. Nintendo’s embrace of these features marks a bold step into the future.

4. Magnetic Joy-Con Design

The Switch 2 introduces magnetic Joy-Cons that snap onto the console with steel shoulder buttons, replacing the original’s slot-in mechanism. A button press releases the magnetic grip, making detachment smooth and convenient, especially for docked setups where space is tight.

5. Larger, Sharper Display

The Switch 2 features a 7.9-inch 1080p screen, an upgrade from the original’s smaller display. This larger canvas enhances the visual clarity of intricate games, striking a balance between portability and immersive gameplay.

6. Innovative Mouse Controls

Nintendo’s Joy-Con mouse feature allows a Joy-Con to function as a mouse when laid on its side, offering precise pointing and rotation. Games like Drag x Drive, Civ 7, and Metroid Prime 4 will support this at launch, appealing to players who prefer mouse-based controls for precision, especially in first-person shooters.

This feature may fade after the launch window, but its inclusion in Metroid Prime 4 is a game-changer for PC gamers accustomed to mouse controls.

7. Expanded Storage Capacity

With 256GB of internal storage, the Switch 2 far surpasses the original’s capacity. However, larger game files due to enhanced graphics may offset this gain. Faster memory ensures smooth handling of these files, though users will need compatible high-speed memory cards for additional storage.

8. Refined Design Enhancements

Nintendo incorporated user feedback to refine the Switch 2. It includes two USB-C ports, with one on top for charging in kickstand mode, a cooling fan in the dock, larger control sticks, and improved audio. The new Pro Controller adds an audio jack and customizable buttons, while the adjustable kickstand screen angle enhances tabletop play, especially in challenging lighting conditions.

The adjustable kickstand is a standout, making games like Civilization 7 more playable on the go by adapting to various environments.

9. Backward Compatibility and Enhanced Editions

The Switch 2 is fully backward compatible with original Switch games, following the successful model of previous Nintendo consoles. It also introduces Switch 2 Editions of select titles, like Metroid Prime 4, with options for higher-resolution Quality Mode or smoother Performance Mode.

Owners of original Switch games can purchase affordable Switch 2 Edition upgrades to access these enhancements, potentially improving performance for titles like Pokemon games with historically uneven performance.

10. Exclusive Blockbuster Titles

Mario Kart World introduces a continuous open-world racing experience and expands races to 24 carts, promising chaotic fun. Kirby’s Air Riders, directed by Smash Bros. creator Sakurai, reimagines the classic with fresh appeal. The Duskbloods, an original Miyazaki-led title, blends elements of Bloodborne and Castlevania for a thrilling exclusive.

Which Nintendo Switch 2 Game Are You Most Excited For?

The DuskbloodsDonkey Kong: BananzaMario Kart WorldHollow Knight: Silksong

AnswerSee Results

Donkey Kong: Bananza marks a triumphant return to 3D platforming, redeeming the misstep of Donkey Kong 64. Built to leverage the Switch 2’s advanced hardware, it promises a landmark adventure, joining Nintendo’s recent successes like Super Mario Odyssey and Kirby and the Forgotten Land.