Update: Eurogamer Provides Further Corroboration

Eurogamer sources have recently come forward to support prior claims regarding the launch of the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2. Previously slotted for a late 2024 release, the sources now indicate a postponement to the first quarter of 2025. While the release date shuffle adjusts the console’s launch timing, it aims to optimize the gaming lineup by offering a larger collection of titles shortly after the console’s release, as informed by individuals familiar with the matter.

Additional confirmation arrived via VGC, with publishing sources revealing that Nintendo recently informed third-party game companies of the revised launch window, shifting from late 2024 to early 2025.

Original Story: Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Date Speculation Spreads Online

A recent report claiming that Nintendo’s highly-anticipated console, the Nintendo Switch 2, will now be launched in the first quarter of 2025 is causing a stir among gaming enthusiasts. The report originated from Brazilian games journalist Pedro Henrique Lutti Lippe, who stated that, although the console’s release is slated for the 2024 financial year, Nintendo has now set its sights on early 2025, as informed by insider sources involved in the console’s development.

Eurogamer has heard similar reports within the industry this week, indicating a potential early 2025 launch, but could not independently validate the information. The previous speculation had heavily pointed towards a release later this year; however, the proposed shift into early 2025 would not only afford more preparation time for the console’s launch lineup but would also allow the financial benefits to be recognized within the context of Nintendo’s upcoming financial calendar.

Potential Reasons for the Revised Launch Window

VGC reported earlier today that two independent sources involved in the development of games for the upcoming console were indeed targeting a Q1 2025 release. However, the sources could not definitively confirm whether this delay had been strategic or not.

At present, only a handful of games are lined up for release on the existing Switch in 2024, including a Princess Peach title in March, along with the ports of Luigi’s Mansion 2 and Paper Mario: A Thousand Year Door. Notably, Nintendo still lists Metroid Prime 4 as a “TBA” release for the Switch 1.

Early Preparations and Demonstrations of Switch 2 Capabilities

Eurogamer reported last year that Nintendo had showcased hardware capabilities for the Switch 2 to developers around Gamescom in August. Several partners had observed tech demos that highlighted the console’s seamless performance. Further supporting information emerged late in 2022, with Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick’s email to Nintendo’s President Shuntaro Furukawa, indicating discussions about the Switch 2’s potential capabilities and compatibility with Call of Duty.

Nintendo Denies and Developers Prepare for the Switch 2

In an interview with a newspaper, President Furukawa denied these reports and referred to them as mere rumors. However, a recent GDC industry report noted that a significant number of developers were actively involved with projects destined for the Switch 2.

Nintendo Yet to Confirm the Revised Launch Schedule

In light of the reports circulating, Eurogamer has reached out to Nintendo for a comment and any official confirmation of the updated release plans for the highly anticipated console.