Nintendo fans have been eagerly waiting for the announcement of the company’s next console, which is rumored to be a successor to the popular Switch. However, according to recent reports, the launch date of the new device has been pushed back to the first quarter of 2025.
What We Know So Far
The reports come from various sources, including Brazilian games journalist Pedro Henrique Lutti Lippe, who claims to have corroborated the information with five different developers working on games for the new console. Eurogamer and VGC have also heard similar whispers from their own sources, but none of them could confirm the reason for the delay.
The new console, which is unofficially dubbed as Switch 2, is expected to have improved hardware and performance, as well as backward compatibility with Switch games. Some sources also suggest that the device will support “enhanced” versions of older games, similar to the PlayStation 4 Pro and Xbox One X.
Why the Delay?
Nintendo has not officially confirmed or denied the existence of the Switch 2, let alone its release date. However, some speculate that the delay could be due to the ongoing chip shortage that has affected the production of many electronic devices, including the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S.
Another possible reason could be that Nintendo wants to strengthen its first-party offerings for the launch of the new console, as it did with the original Switch in 2017. The Switch debuted with the critically acclaimed The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, which helped boost the sales and popularity of the device. Nintendo could be aiming for a similar strategy with the Switch 2, perhaps with a new entry in the Metroid or Mario series.
What to Expect Next
Nintendo is known for being secretive and unpredictable when it comes to its hardware and software plans. The company could surprise us with a sudden announcement or reveal of the Switch 2, or it could remain silent until the last minute. Either way, fans should not lose hope, as Nintendo has a history of delivering innovative and enjoyable gaming experiences with its consoles.
Until then, Switch owners can still enjoy a variety of games on the current device, including upcoming titles like Splatoon 3, Bayonetta 3, and Pokemon Legends: Arceus.
