Nintendo Switch 2 Release: What to Know & Best Deals
June 5, 2025 • 5 minute read.
On June 5, 2025, Nintendo officially launched the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2. Gamers lined up early outside stores in major cities like Tokyo and New York, and retailers experienced rapid sellouts in many regions. In the United States, Target’s initial stock of Switch 2 consoles sold out within hours of opening, leaving many eager fans waiting for restocks. Priced at $499.99, the new console boasts a larger screen and enhanced graphics, debuting with titles such as “Mario Kart World” and “Animal Crossing: New Horizons 2.” This article breaks down everything you need to know— from specs and pricing to where to buy—while also highlighting why the Nintendo Switch OLED remains a compelling alternative for those who aren’t ready to spend as much right now.
#NintendoSwitch2 is here! Which game are you powering up first?
- What’s New with the Nintendo Switch 2?
- Comparison: Switch 2 vs. Earlier Switch Models
- Nintendo Switch OLED – An Affordable Alternative
- Price, Availability, and Where to Buy
- Launch Day Reaction and Future Outlook
- Conclusion
What’s New with the Nintendo Switch 2?
The Switch 2 arrives eight years after the original launch, with significant upgrades in hardware and features that aim to enhance both handheld and docked experiences. Key highlights include:
- Powerful Tegra T239 Processor: An octa-core ARM Cortex-A78C SoC delivers up to 3.09 TFLOPS docked and 1.72 TFLOPS handheld, supporting richer visuals and smoother performance.
- Bigger 7.9″ 1080p LCD Screen (279 ppi): Compared to the Switch OLED’s 7″ 720p panel, the Switch 2 screen supports HDR, 120 Hz refresh in handheld mode, and up to 4K 60 Hz when docked.
- Joy-Con 2 Controllers: Redesigned for improved ergonomics, they include magnetic connectors, built-in mouse functionality for compatible titles, and enhanced haptic feedback.
- Expanded Internal Storage: 256 GB UFS 3.1 onboard (vs. 64 GB on original Switch), with microSD Express support up to 2 TB.
- Enhanced Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth audio, USB-C ports on both top and bottom, and a dock featuring Gigabit Ethernet and a cooling fan for stable 4K output.
- Backward Compatibility: Nearly all Nintendo Switch games play seamlessly, often with optional Switch 2-only features like GameChat and DLSS upscaling (though a few titles like Nintendo Labo VR Kit require original Joy-Con).
These upgrades position the Switch 2 as a robust hybrid console—one that can handle demanding third-party games (e.g., Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, Street Fighter 6) at launch day price points ranging from $69.99 to $79.99
Comparison: Switch 2 vs. Earlier Switch Models
Since every fan can’t afford the $449.99 Switch 2 base price, comparing it to the original line (Switch, Switch Lite, Switch OLED) helps you decide which console best fits your budget and playstyle.
- Form Factor & Display
- Switch 2: 7.9″ 1080p LCD, up to 120 Hz handheld, HDR support.
- Switch OLED: 7″ 720p OLED, 60 Hz, vibrant color and deeper blacks.
- Switch (Base): 6.2″ 720p LCD, 60 Hz.
- Switch Lite: 5.5″ 720p LCD, handheld only.
- Performance & Storage
- Switch 2: 12 GB LPDDR5X RAM, 256 GB internal, DLSS-capable.
- Switch OLED: 4 GB LPDDR4, 64 GB internal, microSDHC/XC (up to 2 TB).
- Switch (Base): 4 GB LPDDR4, 32 GB internal, microSDHC/XC.
- Switch Lite: 4 GB LPDDR4, 32 GB internal, microSDHC/XC.
- Price at Launch (US)
- Switch 2: $449.99 (console only), $499.99 bundle (with Mario Kart World).
- Switch OLED: $349.99 (expected to drop to $299.99–$329.99 post-Switch 2 launch).
- Switch (Base): $299.99 (likely dropping to $249.99).
- Switch Lite: $199.99 (possibly $179.99).
- Catalog & Exclusives
- Switch 2: Day-one titles include Mario Kart World, Animal Crossing: New Horizons 2, and Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition.
- Earlier Switch Models: Full backward compatibility; many early Switch 2 titles run on older hardware (though without enhanced visuals).
Nintendo Switch OLED – An Affordable Alternative
With the Switch 2 launch, the Switch OLED model sees price drops at major retailers, making it a go-to choice for budget-savvy gamers who still want an excellent hybrid experience. Reasons to consider the Switch OLED:
- Vibrant OLED Panel: Deeper blacks and vivid colors for games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
- Portable & Dockable: Same form factor as original Switch, with kickstand and detachable Joy-Con.
- Value for Money: Expected street price around $299.99 after Switch 2 arrival (potential savings of $150+).
- Strong Game Library: Access to every Nintendo first-party title released since 2017, plus most day-one Switch 2 titles via backwards compatibility.
Price, Availability, and Where to Buy
On launch day, the Switch 2’s $449.99 MSRP sparked frenzied demand. Here’s what to expect for availability and best purchasing options:
- Retail Channels (US)
- Nintendo Store & Official Website: Direct shipments sold out quickly due to server crashes from 2.2 million+ preorders.
- Major Retailers (Target, Walmart, Best Buy): Received limited launch-day stock; restocks may follow mid-June.
- Online Marketplaces (Amazon, GameStop): Often auto-sold out within minutes; set up alerts or sign up for waitlists.
- Bundle Options
- Switch 2 + Mario Kart World: $499.99 bundle includes download code (Mario Kart World), Joy-Con 2 Grip, and exclusive in-game content.
- Switch 2 + Zelda Bundle: Limited-edition console faceplates themed after The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (availability varies by region).
- Pre-Order & Restock Tips
- Follow trusted X accounts like @NintendoAmerica for restock announcements.
- Sign up for “notify me” alerts at Target.com, BestBuy.com, and GameStop.com.
- Check local brick-and-mortar stores early (lines formed as early as 6 AM local time).
- Switch OLED Price Drop
- Retailers such as Costco, Walmart, and Amazon now list the Switch OLED between $299.99 and $329.99 (down from $349.99).
- Some bundles include a free digital game code (e.g., Nintendo eShop credit).
Launch Day Reaction and Future Outlook
The Switch 2 launch on June 5, 2025, generated massive buzz:
- Global Sellouts: Retailers in Tokyo, London, and New York reported sellouts within hours of opening.
- Social Media Frenzy: Over 230 K views on Nintendo’s X announcement in under 24 hours; fans shared unboxing videos and “first impressions” across TikTok and YouTube.
- Stock Surge: Nintendo’s share price jumped 32% in 2025 due to strong demand and anticipated record sales for the new console.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is probably the most satisfying-sounding console ever made. Turn up the volume to appreciate the excellent craftsmanship at work. #Switch2 #NintendoSwitch2
Looking Ahead
- Upcoming Exclusives: Titles like Donkey Kong Bonanza (July 2025), Metroid Prime 4 Beyond, and Pokémon Legends: Hoenn arrive exclusively or optimized for Switch 2.
- Accessory Ecosystem: Expect a wave of official and third-party add-ons (Switch 2 Pro Controllers, USB C charging docks, protective cases) to hit the market in late Q3 2025.
- Service Expansions: Nintendo Switch Online rebrands as “Nintendo Online+,” focusing on Switch 2-only GameChat, cloud saves, and early beta access to Deluxe DLC.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
The Nintendo Switch 2 release on June 5, 2025, marks a major milestone in Nintendo’s hybrid console lineup. With cutting-edge hardware, an expansive launch-day game library, and backward compatibility, it aims to satisfy both hardcore gamers and casual players. However, the $449.99 price tag means many fans will look to the original Switch models—especially the now-discounted Switch OLED—for an affordable yet feature-rich gaming experience. Whether you invest in the Switch 2 for top-tier graphics or pick up a discounted Switch OLED for unbeatable value, today’s launch reshapes how millions of American gamers will play and connect.
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