The countdown to the Nintendo Switch 2 is officially on. The new system is set to launch on June 5, 2025 around the world, alongside the release of Mario Kart World. With just weeks to go, you might be wondering how you can get your hands on a console and whether it's really worth it. That's where GamesRadar+ is here to help. Our special Nintendo Switch 2 Spotlight is designed to guide you through the upcoming launch.
We've played the console and its biggest upcoming games, and have been left impressed by the Nintendo Switch 2. While the system has a similar form factor to its predecessor (functioning once again as both a home and handheld console), there are plenty of key innovations and improvements. There's a bigger screen, enhanced Joy-Con controllers, more powerful specs, a wider kickstand, and a suite of new features. You can learn more about all of that (and more) below.
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Nintendo also confirmed that Switch 2 will play almost every one of your existing Switch games, with some even utilising the more powerful hardware to improve fidelity and performance. If you aren't interesting in breathing new life into your back catalogue, then you'll find details on all of the launch games and upcoming exclusives too.
We will keep this Nintendo Switch 2 Spotlight page updated weekly with the latest Switch 2 news, as well as all of our explainers, features, guides, and more as we gear up towards the June 5 release date.
Switch 2: At a Glance
Everything you need to know about the Nintendo Switch 2, from more info on the June 5 worldwide release date to details about the $450 / £395.99 console pricing.
Struggling to get your hands on a Switch 2? There's huge demand for the upcoming Nintendo console, which is why we are tracking Switch 2 pre-order information live.
So you managed to secure a Switch 2, but what will you be able to play on day one? Here's a handy list of all the confirmed Nintendo Switch 2 launch games coming on June 5, 2025.
Switch 2 previews
Wondering whether the new console from Nintendo is worth your time, money, and attention? We went hands-on with the Switch 2 for four hours to try and answer that question. Spoiler Alert: This is one system you won't want to miss. Keep scrolling to find our latest hands-on previews with Switch 2 games.
Mario Kart World gets my gold medal thanks to the thrilling 24-player Knockout Tour, and I can't wait for another lap. Learn more in our Mario Kart World preview.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is the perfect introduction to Switch 2, from its slick performance to impressive mouse controls. Read more in Metroid Prime 4 hands-on.
Donkey Kong Bananza is the most fun I've had with Switch 2 yet thanks to its gleeful, chest-thumping destruction. Read more in our first Donkey Kong Bananza preview.
Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour is a baffling, fascinating toy that still makes no sense to me. Learn more about the new mini-game collection in our Welcome Tour preview.
Cyberpunk 2077 on Switch 2 impressed me, but it's the statement of intent it means for Nintendo that's stuck with me. Read more in our Cyberpunk 2077 Switch 2 preview.
I was a Drag x Drive skeptic, but playing the Switch 2's wheelchair basketball game using two Joy-Con as mice made me a believer. Read more in our Drag x Drive preview.
Switch 2 hardware in detail
Nintendo has confirmed that there will be Switch 2 backwards compatibility support for most of the best Switch games, but the publisher warns there will be some exceptions.
Some of the most significant Switch 2 upgrades are contained within the new Joy-Con controllers. We investigate how the Switch 2 Joy-Cons compare to the original set.
The Switch 2 shares a form factor with its predecessor but there's plenty to separate the two. Here we pit the Nintendo Switch 2 vs Nintendo Switch to see how they compare.
The Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Cons will be way more accurate than the ones for the original Switch. Here's everything we know about the Switch 2 Joy-Con IR Sensors so far.
With a new console comes a suite of new add-ons. From additional controllers to cameras, here's every official Nintendo Switch 2 accessory we know about so far.
You may have noticed that the right Switch 2 Joy-Con controller features a brand new button. That's how you activate GameChat, Nintendo's own take on Discord.
Switch 2 hands-on
Upcoming Switch 2 exclusives
From Mario Kart World to Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition, we have release info on all of the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 games set to land in 2025 and beyond.
Here it is, the essential Switch 2 launch game! Mario Kart World is an exceptionally ambitious sequel to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, featuring 24-player races and open-world cruising.
Here's everything you need to know about Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, one of the key first-party exclusive video games that Nintendo has slated for release in 2025.
Nintendo is yet to fully outline what's launching within the Switch 2 release window, but we do know that Donkey Kong Bananza will be leading the charge in July.
Here's something we didn't expect: Elden Ring developer FromSoftware is working on a co-op focused Switch 2 exclusive, with The Duskbloods set to land in 2026 for the new system.
There's at least one new Pokemon game set to release on Switch 2 before the end of 2025. Here's everything we know so far about Pokemon Legends: Z-A.
Want to understand how all of the new Nintendo Switch 2 features work? Then you'll want to consider picking up Welcome Tour, a little puzzle-based system showcase.
