Analyst Serkan Toto suggests that the upcoming Switch 2 may resemble the current hybrid console, with expectations of a higher price tag upon its anticipated release later this year. Toto predicts a 2024 launch at $400, characterizing the new console as an iteration rather than a revolution, maintaining the hybrid functionality and portability of the current Switch.
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Toto also anticipates a potential increase in game prices, speculating they could be set at $70. This aligns with Nintendo’s previous introduction of a $70 price point for titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.
Switch 2 development kits have reportedly been in the hands of developers since July, aligning with Toto’s projections. Digital Foundry’s exploration into the hardware suggests capabilities close to running games like Death Stranding at 1080p with around 35 frames per second.
Former Nintendo employees Kit Ellis and Krysta Yang foresee a Switch successor announcement in the first half of 2024, potentially in Q1, strategically tied to Nintendo’s next financial year beginning on April 1, 2024. They anticipate a constrained launch stock, but any issues resolved before the holiday season, with Yang predicting a June or July release and Ellis leaning towards a launch by September 1.
The duo predicts the next Nintendo console to be a handheld device, akin to the DS to 3DS transition, offering backward compatibility. Ellis suggests the possibility of two models, one supporting digital backward compatibility and a “higher-end” version with a physical cartridge slot for newer games. Yang, however, is skeptical about multiple SKUs, emphasizing Nintendo’s aversion to confusing brand messaging.
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Regarding the price, Yang expects the next Nintendo console to launch at $400. They also foresee Mario Kart 9 as a key launch title, considering the series’ historical success.
While the official announcement of the Switch successor is pending, Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser hints at a focus on “surprise and delight” for the new system.
Table of Contents
Q: When is the expected release date for the Switch 2?
A: Analyst Serkan Toto predicts a 2024 launch, possibly by September 1, with Switch 2 development kits already in developers’ hands since July.
Q: What price is anticipated for the Switch 2?
A: Toto suggests a $400 price tag for the upcoming Switch 2, which might be in line with Nintendo’s strategy for the new console.
Q: Will game prices increase for the Switch 2?
A: Toto speculates that Switch 2 games could be priced at $70, potentially following the precedent set by The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.
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Q: What changes can be expected in the Switch 2’s design and functionality?
A: The Switch 2 is anticipated to be more of an iteration than a revolution, maintaining the hybrid functionality and portability of the current Switch, according to Toto.
Q: Are there different models of the Switch 2 expected?
A: Former Nintendo employees Kit Ellis and Krysta Yang have differing opinions; Ellis predicts two models, while Yang is skeptical, emphasizing Nintendo’s aversion to confusing brand messaging.
Q: What games are predicted to be key launch titles for the Switch 2?
A: Mario Kart 9 is speculated to be a key launch title for the next Nintendo console, given the historical success of the Mario Kart series.
Q: What is Nintendo’s official stance on the Switch 2?
A: While Nintendo hasn’t officially revealed a Switch successor, Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser hints at the aim of the new system being to “surprise and delight.”