History of Nintendo Switch 2 in Timeline
The Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo's next video game console after the Nintendo Switch, is set to launch in 2025. Unveiled on January 16, 2025, details about the new console have been scarce. This has fueled speculation and anticipation among fans and the gaming community. Key improvements and new features are expected to be revealed closer to the release date.
December 2022: Microsoft and Nintendo's Call of Duty Agreement
In December 2022, Microsoft announced negotiations with Nintendo for a 10-year deal to bring Call of Duty games to Nintendo platforms.
2022: Nvidia Leak Reveals Potential Chip Details
In 2022, a ransomware attack on Nvidia led to the leak of details about the Tegra T239 chip, potentially intended for the Switch 2.
February 2023: Microsoft and Nintendo Agreement Becomes Binding
By February 2023, the agreement between Microsoft and Nintendo regarding Call of Duty became legally binding.
June 2023: Nintendo Discusses Smooth Transition Plans
In June 2023, Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa discussed plans for a smooth transition from the original Switch to its successor, focusing on retaining the Nintendo Account system.
July 2023: Development Kits Secured by Third-Party Partners
By July 2023, key third-party developers had received Switch 2 development kits.
July 2023: Reports on Switch 2 Development Kits and Hardware
In July 2023, reports emerged that Nintendo had sent Switch 2 development kits to partners. It was also reported that the console would be a hybrid model using cartridges and initially ship with an LCD screen to reduce costs.
January 2024: GDC Survey Reveals Developer Interest
A survey at the 2024 Game Developers Conference showed significant developer interest in creating games for the Switch 2.
February 2024: Backward Compatibility Rumors
In February 2024, rumors suggested that developers could update existing Switch games to leverage the Switch 2's hardware.
May 7, 2024: Official Acknowledgement of Switch Successor
On May 7, 2024, Nintendo officially confirmed the development of the Switch's successor.
May 2024: Nintendo Acquires Shiver Entertainment
In May 2024, Nintendo acquired Shiver Entertainment to bolster third-party game development for the Switch 2.
August 2024: Reports of Delayed Launch
In August 2024, reports indicated that the Switch 2 would not launch before April 2025.
September 18, 2024: Alleged Images of Switch 2 Leak
On September 18, 2024, supposed images of the Switch 2 system were leaked online.
October 2024: Game Freak Data Breach Reveals "Ounce" Codename
In October 2024, a data breach at Game Freak revealed references to Pokémon games in development for the Switch successor, codenamed "Ounce".
November 2024: Nintendo Switch Online Confirmed for Switch 2
During an investors' meeting in November 2024, Nintendo confirmed that the Switch Online service would continue on the Switch 2.
January 1, 2025: Motherboard Images and Chip Speculation
On January 1, 2025, alleged images of the Switch 2's motherboard surfaced, leading to speculation about the chip's manufacturing process.
January 16, 2025: Nintendo Switch 2 Unveiled
On January 16, 2025, Nintendo unveiled the Switch 2, showcasing its design and magnetic Joy-Con controllers.
April 2, 2025: Nintendo Direct Announced
A Nintendo Direct presentation focused on the Switch 2 was scheduled for April 2, 2025.
April 2025: Launch Window Confirmed
Reports confirmed that the Switch 2's launch was pushed to April 2025.
2025: Third-Party Accessories and Nintendo's Response
In 2025, at CES, several third-party vendors showcased accessories for the Switch 2, prompting Nintendo to clarify that these were not official mockups.