Nintendo Switch 2 rumours have swelled all year, but the speculation has reached new heights lately. The latest leaks and claims from alleged insiders appear almost daily, making it seem like an official announcement is approaching. The much-anticipated reveal could come as soon as January.
If Nintendo is preparing to unveil the Switch 2, it’s perfect timing. The current Nintendo Switch, while still beloved, is starting to show its age. After eight years, a hardware refresh is overdue, with competitors like the PS5, Xbox Series X, and even the Steam Deck pulling ahead. As exciting as the Switch still is, a new console could reignite the enthusiasm of gamers worldwide. Here are three rumoured upgrades that might make the Switch 2 a must-buy.
A refreshed but familiar design
There’s speculation that Nintendo might not stray far from Switch’s current design philosophy, and for many, that’s great news. The Switch’s hybrid design has been a huge success, and drastic changes could risk alienating fans. Early renders and mock-ups suggest that the Switch 2 will resemble its predecessor. Some even hint at a mysterious new button on the right Joy-Con, possibly labelled “C.”
One potential tweak could be in the docking station. Some renders show a slimmer dock, allowing part of the Switch’s screen to remain visible while docked. This could suggest dual-screen functionality, enabling new features or displaying useful information when connected to a TV.
For those concerned that Nintendo might “overthink” the design, these rumours suggest the company stays true to what works while introducing small refinements.
A significant performance boost
It’s almost certain that the Switch 2 will deliver a performance upgrade, but fans are most excited about the extent of the improvement. Compared to the original Switch, which struggles with demanding games, the Switch 2 is rumoured to offer a leap in power.
One leak suggests the new console will be three times as powerful as the current model, featuring 12GB of RAM, a massive jump from the Switch’s 4GB. It’s also rumoured to include NVIDIA DLSS Super Resolution and Ray Reconstruction, making for crisper graphics and smoother gameplay. While it may not rival the graphical power of a PS5, this boost would elevate the Switch 2 to handle modern gaming expectations.
However, the rumour mill also points to a possible downgrade: the screen. Unlike the OLED screen introduced in the Nintendo Switch OLED model, the Switch 2 might return to an LCD. This move could lower manufacturing costs, but it might feel like a step back for fans of OLED’s superior visuals.
Revamped Joy-Con controllers
The Joy-Con controllers are an iconic part of the Nintendo Switch, but they’ve faced criticism for being flimsy and uncomfortable. The Switch 2 is rumoured to introduce redesigned Joy-Cons with magnetic connections to the console. This would replace the current rail system, which has been prone to issues, such as users accidentally attaching the straps incorrectly.
The new Joy-Cons might also be slightly larger and have a more rounded design. This change could address complaints about comfort during extended play sessions. Even minor adjustments could make the controllers feel more premium and user-friendly.
If these rumours prove accurate, the Nintendo Switch 2 could be a game-changer. Its potential blend of familiarity and innovation has fans eagerly awaiting an official reveal. Whether it’s the improved performance, refined design, or enhanced Joy-Cons, there’s plenty to look forward to in Nintendo’s next-generation console.
