A new Mario Kart World game will be released on June 5 for Nintendo Switch 2

Nintendo has officially announced that its latest gaming console, the Switch 2, will hit the market on June 5, carrying a price tag of $449.99. This upgraded system introduces new features such as interactive chat and screen-sharing, aiming to enhance the gaming experience and connectivity between players.

During its 60-minute Nintendo Direct presentation, the company unveiled key improvements, including a more vibrant 7.9-inch LCD screen with 1080p resolution. When docked, the console supports 4K for compatible games. Additionally, the Joy-Con controllers now function like a computer mouse, offering new gameplay mechanics such as adjusting angles in golf games. A standout addition is the “C” button, which activates “GameChat,” a voice-enabled feature requiring a Nintendo Switch Online subscription. This tool allows players to communicate and share their game screens in real time, with a built-in microphone facilitating seamless interaction.

The event kicked off with an extended preview of Mario Kart World, which will be bundled with the console at launch, introducing a knockout mode and new skateboard-style rail grinding mechanics. Several new titles were also revealed, including Project 007, a James Bond adventure reminiscent of the classic GoldenEye 007. Other exclusives include Donkey Kong Bananza, a 3D platformer featuring the iconic ape, arriving July 17, and Kirby Air Riders, a racing game developed by the director of Super Smash Bros., set for release later in the year.

Third-party exclusives are also making waves, such as Koei-Tecmo’s Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment, a prequel to The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, arriving this winter. From Software’s The Duskbloods, a gothic multiplayer experience from the Elden Ring developers, is scheduled for 2026. Nostalgic fans will be pleased to learn that Switch Online subscribers will gain access to select GameCube classics, including The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker and F-Zero GX.

The Switch 2 maintains backward compatibility with existing physical and digital Switch games. However, standard microSD cards will not work with the system-players will need to purchase a microSD Express memory card. Additionally, data transfer from the original Switch is supported, allowing gamers to carry over their progress.

Despite the excitement, the price increase compared to the original Switch’s $299 launch price has raised concerns. Industry analyst Joost van Dreunen attributes the $50 bump to tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, which have affected console manufacturing and shipping costs from China. Since early-stage hardware cycles are typically low-margin or even loss-making for manufacturers, this added tariff has further impacted pricing.

To build excitement, Nintendo is planning “Switch 2 Experience” events in major cities, including Los Angeles, New York, London, and Paris, offering gamers a chance to try the new console before its official release.