The wait is over — the Nintendo Switch 2 is officially launching on June 5, 2025, and it’s shaping up to be one of the biggest console releases of the decade. Whether you’ve been tracking the announcement since the first rumors dropped or are scrambling for a preorder, we’ve got you covered.
Here’s your ultimate guide to the Nintendo Switch 2 launch: from confirmed game titles and hardware features to restock details and retail launch events.
Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Date and Pricing
Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 will launch worldwide on June 5, 2025. The base console will retail at $449 USD, while the premium Mario Kart World Bundle is priced at $499 USD.
The launch includes two models:
- Nintendo Switch 2 (Standard): $449
- Nintendo Switch 2 Mario Kart World Bundle: $499 (includes exclusive in-game content)
Confirmed Switch 2 Games at Launch
Nintendo’s lineup for day one is stacked. Here are the confirmed launch games coming on June 5:
First-Party Exclusives:
- Mario Kart World – The next evolution in the franchise with an online “World Tour” mode.
- Donkey Kong: Bananza – A brand-new 2.5D platformer with vibrant jungle levels and multiplayer support.
- Metroid Prime 4: Beyond – Samus returns in a full-fledged sequel built for the Switch 2’s new hardware.
- The Duskbloods – A mature-rated, narrative-driven RPG published by Nintendo and developed by a newly acquired AAA studio.
- Super Mario Spacetime Odyssey – Confirmed for Fall 2025, this one’s not a launch title but worth mentioning.
Third-Party & Indie Titles:
- Call of Duty: Black Ops Gulf War
- FIFA 26
- Minecraft: RTX Edition
- Resident Evil 4 Remake (Switch 2 Enhanced Edition)
- Hollow Knight: Silksong
- Dragon Quest XII: The Flames of Fate
- Among Us 2
- Octopath Traveler III
- Stardew Valley: Seasons
Nintendo has also confirmed that Switch 2 is backward compatible with Switch 1 games — both physical and digital.
Switch 2 Hardware Specs & Features
The Switch 2 isn’t just a simple refresh — it’s a major step forward in Nintendo’s console evolution:
Key Specs:
- Display: 8-inch OLED screen with 1080p resolution (handheld mode)
- Docked Output: Up to 4K resolution with DLSS 3.5 support
- Chipset: Custom NVIDIA Tegra RTX SoC
- Storage: 512GB internal SSD, expandable via microSDXC
- Battery Life: 7–10 hours (variable)
- Haptics: Advanced HD Rumble 2.0
- Audio: Spatial audio with 3D surround in supported games
The new Joy-Con 2 controllers magnetically attach and charge via USB-C. They also include Hall effect thumbsticks to reduce drift, and an updated motion sensor array for more precise tracking.
Backward Compatibility and Game Transfers
Nintendo has confirmed full backward compatibility with physical and digital games from the original Switch. You can also transfer your eShop library and cloud saves through a streamlined migration system using your Nintendo Account.
Where to Buy the Switch 2 at Launch
Here’s a breakdown of retailers confirmed to have stock on or around launch day:
Walmart
- In-store availability: Starting 6 AM local time on June 5 (check with your local store)
- Online restock potential: Likely at 12:01 AM ET, June 5. Listings already read “Coming Soon: 06/05/2025”
- Note: Some preorders were canceled due to a system glitch; restocks are expected.
Best Buy
- Midnight launch event: June 5 at 12:01 AM ET (check if your store is participating)
- Free Nintendo coin for midnight attendees (Switch 2 and Best Buy logos)
- Online restock: Expected at launch; high-demand warning active on product pages
- An account is required to purchase online
Target
- Launch event: June 5 from 8 AM to 4 PM local time at all major locations
- Giveaways and prizes at select stores, including merch and surprise gifts
- Mega-event at Millenia Target (Orlando, FL): With games, giveaways, and mascot appearances
- Online restock: June 6 confirmed for consoles and bundles
Amazon, GameStop, and Nintendo Store
- Amazon: Sold out, no new restock date
- GameStop: Very limited bundles expected in select stores
- Nintendo Store: Invite-only preorder system still active; waitlist remains open
Missed the Preorder? What to Do Next
If you didn’t secure a preorder, don’t worry — Nintendo and major retailers will restock during and after launch week. Here’s how to maximize your chances:
- Create retailer accounts in advance (Walmart, Best Buy, Target).
- Turn on notifications and wish list the product pages.
- Follow local store Twitter/X accounts for real-time updates.
- Join launch events early — some stock is first-come, first-served.
- Look for bundle restocks, which are sometimes less competitive.
What’s Next After Launch?
Nintendo has already teased post-launch updates and upcoming games, including:
- Super Mario Spacetime Odyssey (Fall 2025)
- Zelda Echoes of the Abyss (rumored 2026)
- Monster Hunter Switch 2 Exclusive (Capcom partnership in the works)
- More 4 K-enhanced remasters from the Wii U/Switch library
The Switch 2 is also expected to gain streaming and cloud gaming features later in the year, possibly supporting Xbox Cloud Gaming and NVIDIA GeForce Now.
Final Thoughts: Is the Switch 2 Worth It?
With powerhouse specs, next-gen exclusives, full backward compatibility, and strong third-party support, the Nintendo Switch 2 launch is looking like a home run for both longtime Nintendo fans and new players.
Whether you’re planning to grab it at midnight or strategizing for an online restock, make sure you’re ready — because this launch will be fast, fierce, and full of fun.
Stay tuned to GamingNewsHQ.com for live updates, game reviews, and launch week coverage. Follow us on Twitter, Thread, Instagram, and Facebook for real-time alerts on restocks and hands-on impressions.
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