Nintendo is poised to reveal crucial details about its much-anticipated follow-up to the Switch in a presentation that has captured the attention of gaming enthusiasts and investors alike. The Japanese gaming giant will commence an hour-long presentation for the Switch 2 at 13:00 GMT on Wednesday. Fans are eagerly awaiting information regarding the console's price and release date, among other significant announcements.
This upcoming Nintendo Direct event follows a brief teaser video released in mid-January, which confirmed the existence of the next-generation system. The teaser indicated that the new console will retain a similar design to the original Switch, featuring a larger screen and the same hybrid functionality that fans have come to love. Additionally, the video provided a sneak peek at the next installment of Nintendo’s beloved Mario Kart franchise, generating even more excitement among fans.
While Nintendo has been relatively tight-lipped regarding the technical specifications of the Switch 2, it has assured users that the new system will be compatible with original Switch games. This backward compatibility is a significant feature that will likely appeal to existing owners of the original console, allowing them to enjoy their favorite games on the new hardware.
The original Nintendo Switch is noteworthy for being the third best-selling game console of all time, trailing only behind Sony’s PlayStation 2 and Nintendo’s own DS handheld. Since its release in 2017, the console has achieved remarkable success, selling over 150 million units globally. This explosive popularity has significantly improved Nintendo’s financial standing, especially after a period of disappointing results following the launch of the Wii U.
In anticipation of the Switch 2, Nintendo’s shares have increased by more than 28 percent over the past year. This remarkable growth stands out, especially considering the broader decline in the Japanese stock market during the same timeframe. The excitement surrounding the new console appears to be driving investor confidence, setting the stage for what could be another successful chapter in Nintendo’s storied history.