Developers and industry insiders are increasingly discussing the release window on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, which has generated significant buzz. According to various reports, development kits for the Switch 2 are already in the hands of major game studios, hinting that Nintendo is gearing up for the next generation of its popular hybrid console.
However, there’s also significant speculation that the console might not hit the market until April 2025 or later. Developers have reportedly been advised not to expect a release before the end of Nintendo’s current fiscal year, which ends in March 2025, according to Video Game Chronicle.
Nintendo’s original Switch, launched in March 2017, keeps breaking records, making it the company’s longest-lasting console before any replacement. Despite its age, the Switch remains a strong seller, which likely influences Nintendo’s careful timing for the Switch 2’s release.
According to a podcast by GamesIndustry.biz, there’s a palpable excitement among developers, as they anticipate the new hardware. However, there’s also a desire for a clear and timely launch window to avoid overlapping with other major releases, such as Grand Theft Auto 6.
“I don’t think any of us wants a late launch for Switch 2 because we all want a new Nintendo console, everyone gets very excited for it, and we don’t want that crunch of Grand Theft Auto 6 and Switch and all that kind of stuff on top of each other.” – Chris Dring, Head of Games B2B
Developers are eagerly awaiting official announcements, as the arrival of the Switch 2 is seen as a significant event in the gaming industry. The potential of new hardware could unlock more ambitious projects and further cement Nintendo’s position in the console market.