Certain physical Nintendo Switch 2 games will be digital downloads that use a new feature called Game-Key Cards, Nintendo has revealed.

Why a particular game may use a Game-Key Card instead of a regular Nintendo Switch 2 game cartridge is unclear, but a page on the Nintendo customer support page breaks down how it will all work. Information about the Game-Key Card system didn't appear in the recent Switch 2 Nintendo Direct but instead appeared online via Nintendo's website after the broadcast.

Unlike a regular physical game cartridge, Game-Key Cards don't include game data but are instead a "key" that can be used to download and later access a particular game. The Game-Key Card is required even after that game has been downloaded and installed and is in many ways treated just like a normal game cartridge, minus the console actually running the game off it.

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Nintendo offered a closer look at the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 during its latest Nintendo Direct presentation, showcasing the system's hardware and new features. Afterward, the company detailed some of the console's specs, including its battery life.

According to a spec sheet on the official Nintendo website, Switch 2's battery life will last between 2-6.5 hours on a single charge. Nintendo says this range is a "rough estimate" and will vary depending on a number of conditions, including what games you are playing. The company also confirmed that it will take approximately three hours to fully charge a Switch 2 when it's in sleep mode.

For reference, Switch 2's battery life is roughly in the same ballpark as the original Switch when it first launched back in March 2017. The launch model's battery lasted between 2.5-6.5 hours on a single charge, while the revised model, released in 2019, improved battery life to 4.5-9 hours. The Switch OLED model similarly lasts between 4.5-9 hours on a single charge.

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Nintendo has officially revealed the Switch 2, which launches on June 5 and carries a $450 price tag. That makes it a fairly hefty investment--and if you plan to lug the handheld console around with you, it's a good idea to pair it with a carrying case. A bunch of third-party cases are already popping up at Amazon, but the best option might be picking up the official Switch 2 Carrying Case from Nintendo. There's also an All-In One Carrying Case large enough to accommodate multiple accessories, giving you two ways to transport your console. Preorders are expected to open on April 9 alongside Switch 2 preorders--here's a closer look at both.

Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case $35

The Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case was crafted specifically for the upcoming console. Along with a sturdy exterior shell, the case is bundled with a screen protector and cleaning cloth. And since the screen has ballooned to an impressive 7.9-inches (compared to 6.2 for the original Switch and 7 inches for Switch OLED), these should help you keep it free from scratches and fingerprints.

The case is equipped with two large zippers that mimic the red and blue design of the Joy-Con, and they bring a nice pop of color to an otherwise understated accessory. Much like the existing carrying case for Switch, this should be a good option for anyone looking to keep their Switch 2 safe while stowed in a backpack or suitcase.

See at the Nintendo Store Nintendo Switch 2 All-In One Carrying Case $80

Plan on traveling with not just your Switch 2, but all of its accessories? Then take a look at the All-In-One Carrying Case. Offering much more space than the above case, it's capable of packing in the following gear:

• Nintendo Switch 2 system
• Switch 2 dock
• Joy-Con 2 controllers
• Various cables
• Up to six game cards

Sporting a design that looks a bit like a GameCube, it's a convenient way to bring your entire Switch 2 setup with you wherever you go. Inside are a variety of dividers to keep everything organized, while a mesh net in the lid lets you pack cables and smaller gear.

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Nintendo Switch 2 launches this June and is backwards compatible with an extensive list of Switch 1 games. While some of these titles will receive paid upgraded editions for Switch 2, a number will also get free updates for the new console.

As detailed on the official Nintendo Switch 2 website, Nintendo will release updates for select Switch 1 games to "improve playability" on Switch 2. According to the company, the exact specifics of the updates will vary by title, but they "may improve performance or add support for features such as GameShare in select games."

Nintendo has confirmed that the following Switch 1 games will receive free Switch 2 updates:

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If you tried to boot up Call of Duty: Warzone today, only to encounter an error message saying the game is offline and unplayable, there is no cause for panic or alarm. The popular battle royale game was taken offline today, April 2, for a period of 24 hours as Activision prepares to bring back Warzone's OG map, Verdansk.

Warzone's servers were taken offline today, April 2, at 9 AM PT / 12 PM ET. The Warzone tile from the menu now displays a "Countdown to Verdansk launch" timer that will run for 24 hours. On April 3 at 9 AM PT / 12 PM ET, Verdansk will go live--this assumes the schedule holds and nothing goes awry.

While Warzone may be offline for 24 hours, Black Ops 6's new Season 3 update is available now, ushering in new multiplayer and Zombies content. Any Warzone fans who still want to play Call of Duty during the 24-hour downtime can play Black Ops 6 multiplayer and Zombies for free, and this includes the new Season 3 content that just went live today.

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Mario Kart World is launching on June 5 alongside the Nintendo Switch 2, and it's looking like another great installment in the beloved franchise. And if you're going to be picking it up later this year, consider snagging the official Joy-Con 2 Wheel from Nintendo. A two-pack will cost just $20, making it a solid choice for local multiplayer matches.

Joy-Con 2 Wheel (Set of Two) $20

Designed specifically for the updated Joy-Con 2, this accessory is a nice companion for all sorts of racing games on Switch 2. It includes a light blue and light red wheel, giving you and a friend a more immersive way to race. And since it uses a magnetic connection to lock the Joy-Con into place, you won't have to worry about it shaking loose during the heat of battle.

We're expecting preorders to open on April 9--the same date they open for Switch 2.

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Mario Kart World is going to be quite expensive at $80--so it's nice that this optional pack of Joy-Con 2 Wheels is quite affordable. A cheaper way to get the game is by bundling it with the Switch 2 console, as the Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle costs $500. The standalone console is priced at $450, so you're essentially saving $30 when bundled together.

Nintendo revealed heaps of other accessories for Switch 2, including an updated Switch 2 Pro Controller with new back buttons, Joy-Con that can function as a mouse, and a Charging Grip to help keep your Joy-Con juiced up for your next play session. There's also a Nintendo Switch 2 Camera built for GameChat, so you can easily connect with friends without needing the companion mobile app.

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ZenGrip 2

$40 (was $50) | Releases Spring 2025

Preoder ZenGrip 2 at Satisfye Preorder ZenGrip 2 with Carrying Case at Satisye

Dbrand Killswitch for Switch 2

$3 to reserve a unit | Releases Spring 2025

Preorder at Dbrand

The Switch 2 officially launches on June 5, and just like previous Nintendo consoles, there'll be a wide range of official accessories to purchase alongside it, including new Switch 2 Grips from third-party manufacturers Dbrand and Satisfye. The design differs between the grips from the two brands. Dbrand's Killswitch Grip for Switch 2 is a wrap-around protective case, while Satisfye's new ZenGrip 2 slides on and off the new handheld, matching the design the company's Switch 1 grips, while also allowing you to keep it on while the console is docked. Preorders are available for both models and are expected to ship soon.

ZenGrip 2 $40 (was $50) | Releases Spring 2025

Like other ZenGrip models, ,Satisfye's ZenGrip 2 is designed to make playing on a Switch 2 more comfortable with its handles. The grip slides on the Switch 2 and is designed so you can still place the console into Switch 2 dock even while the grip is attached. The ZenGrip 2 will be available on its own for $50 or with a carrying case included that is priced at $70. Additionally, you can save 20% by using the code FOUNDER20 when you check out, which will drop the price for the ZenGrip 2 to $40 and $56 for the carrying case bundle.

• ZenGrip 2 -- $40 ($50)
• ZenGrip 2 and carrying case -- $56 ($70)

Preoder ZenGrip 2 at Satisfye Preorder ZenGrip 2 with Carrying Case at Satisye Dbrand Killswitch for Switch 2 $3 to reserve a unit | Releases Spring 2025

Dbrand's Killswitch grip for Switch 2 works more like a case that covers the body of the Switch 2 and adds ergonomic handles to the new Joy-Cons, but you'll still be able to detach the Joy-Cons and use the kickstand. Dbrand hasn't revealed pricing yet for it, but you can reserve one of these for $3 right now. That reservation price will also be subtracted from the final purchase.

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Beyond third-party accessories, you can also pick up official gear straight from the Nintendo store. This includes the new Switch 2 Pro Controller, the Switch 2 camera, and extra Joy-Con controllers. Pricing has also been revealed for each item, so you can budget accordingly in the months leading up to the Switch 2 release in June. Here's a closer look at all the official accessories revealed thus far:

Switch 2 Accessories

• Switch 2 Pro Controller -- $80
• Switch 2 Camera -- $50
• Joy-Con 2 Controllers (2-Pack) -- $90
• Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip -- $35
• Joy-Con 2 Straps (2-Pack) -- $13
• Joy-Con 2 Racing Wheels (2-Pack) -- $20
• Switch 2 Dock Set -- $110
• Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector -- $35
• Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case -- $80
• Switch 2 AC Adapter -- $30

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Nintendo Switch 2

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Nintendo never considered making the Switch 2 a piece of "high-performance hardware" aimed at consumers who wanted more-powerful tech. Takuhiro Dohta from Nintendo's Entertainment Planning and Development Department made the comments in part of the company's lengthy Q&A session following the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct.

A Nintendo representative asked Dohta and Kouichi Kawamoto, also from the Entertainment Planning and Development Department, why the team decided to call the system the Switch 2. Kawamoto said the team toyed with the idea of calling it the Super Nintendo Switch, but in addition to Nintendo already having a system with "Super" as a descriptor--Super Nintendo--the team didn't want people to focus on the console's specifications.

"Switch 2 is a new system with improved performance, but we'd like players who get their hands on it not to focus on the specs, but rather to think of it as the latest system developed by Nintendo," Kawamoto said. "So, in the hope that it becomes the new standard for Nintendo Switch, we named it Nintendo Switch 2."

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Nintendo pulled back the curtain on its anticipated Switch successor, the Nintendo Switch 2, during its lengthy April Nintendo Direct presentation. In addition to giving fans a closer look at the hardware itself, Nintendo confirmed that Switch 1 owners will be able to transfer their system data over to the upcoming console.

According to the company, you can move your data from the original Switch to the Switch 2 by logging in to your Nintendo Account and using the System Transfer feature. This will transfer your game saves, digital titles, user profiles, screenshots you've taken, and other data (such as your settings and parental controls) to the new console.

As detailed on the Switch 2 transfer guide website, you will need to have an active internet connection to perform a system transfer. Once the transfer is complete, digital Switch 1 titles you own will be automatically redownloaded on Switch 2, allowing you to pick up where you left off on the new system.

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Bravely Default will finally break free of the Nintendo 3DS, with an HD remaster of the turn-based JRPG set to release on the Nintendo Switch 2 as a launch title.

Officially titled Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster (a reference to the game's original subtitle in Japan), the game will feature remastered visuals, a redesigned UI, upgraded online compatibility, quality-of-life features like the ability to speed up battles, and two new minigames that take advantage of the Switch 2's Joy-Con 2 mouse functionality, according to a trailer shown during the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct. Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster, and the Switch 2, will release June 5.

Bravely Default brings to mind classic Final Fantasy titles, as a group of warriors of light seek to defeat evil and restore light to the four crystals that maintain peace and balance in the world of Luxendarc. The game features turn-based combat and a job system where players can mix and match different jobs and abilities to create unique party compositions. The game's title refers to its battle system, where Brave Points can be spent to increase the number of actions per turn. Alternatively, players can "Default" to stock up on actions and shore up their defenses.

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Nintendo Switch 2 releases on June 5, and it's shaping up to be an impressive successor to the existing Nintendo Switch. A bunch of new accessories are arriving for the handheld console, including new Joy-Con, an updated Charging Grip, and the Joy-Con 2 Wheel that's ideal for the upcoming Mario Kart World. Preorders for Switch 2 go live on April 9, and we're expecting the same for all the upcoming accessories.

Joy-Con 2 Controllers $90

The new Joy-Con are going to be a bit more expensive than their predecessors, which were priced starting at $80. However, the Joy-Con 2 make some nice improvements. Along with motion controls and HD Rumble 2, you'll find a new C button to quickly access the GameChat feature. They can also be used as a mouse for certain games, with your movements tracked as you scroll it across a flat surface. You'll also find slightly larger bumper buttons for easier access when using a single Joy-Con, which should make it less painful to share with a friend.

This set includes a left and right Joy-Con, plus a pair of Joy-Con 2 straps. Note that these are only compatible with Nintendo Switch 2. You can also purchase Joy-Con 2 (L) and Joy-Con 2 (R) separately, though pricing is yet to be confirmed. Expect a single Joy-Con to cost around $45.

A pair of Joy-Con and straps are included with your Switch 2 console.

See more at the Nintendo Store Charging Grip $35

For a more traditional gamepad experience, the Joy-Con 2 can be connected to the Charging Grip. Along with a USB-C cable and charging port to juice up your Joy-Con, the Charging Grip features two customizable back buttons--a feature that's also found on the new Switch 2 Pro Controller.

While the Joy-Con 2 are included with your Switch 2 purchase, the Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip is sold separately. It also cannot be used with the original Switch Joy-Con.

See more at the Nintendo Store Joy-Con 2 Wheel (Set of Two) $20

If you're planning to play Mario Kart World--which can be bundled with your Switch 2 console--consider picking up the Joy-Con 2 Wheel. This two-pack includes a red and blue wheel that's perfect for local multiplayer, and a magnetic connection helps keep your Joy-Con 2 in place no matter how wild you drive. These only work with the new Joy-Con 2 and not the existing Joy-Con.

See more at the Nintendo Store Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector $35

Carry your Switch 2 in style with this official Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case. Along with a sturdy exterior and two colorful zippers for quick access, you'll get a screen protector and cleaning cloth as a bonus.

See more at the Nintendo Store Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case $80

Want to lug your entire Switch 2 system around with you? Then pick up the All-In-One Carrying Case. Designed with enough space for your Switch 2, docking station, Joy-Con 2, cables, and six game cards, it's a compact way to bring your whole setup on the road.

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Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade will release on Nintendo Switch 2 as one of many third-party games announced for the console.

As of writing, specific details are scant. There is no price point or release date for the game's Switch 2 port. In a short video segment, which was part of the April Nintendo Direct, Square Enix director Naoki Hamaguchi promised "more updates on the Final Fantasy VII Remake project for Switch 2." What exactly this statement means is unknown. Perhaps the sequel, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, will also see a Switch 2 port. The aforementioned video segment showed off a couple early portions of the game, with principle characters Cloud and Barrett fighting robots. Other third-party games releasing on the Switch 2 include Elden Ring, Cyberpunk 2077, Sid Meier's Civilization VII, and Borderlands 4.

For anyone unaware, Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade originally released in 2021 as a PC port and PS5 upgrade for the erstwhile PS4 exclusive. It improved graphical features and added a mini-story featuring party member Yuffie. Final Fantasy 7 Remake is a partial remake of the classic game, covering the party's journey through the city of Midgar.

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Nintendo has confirmed that it explored "a lot of ideas" for what to called the Switch 2 before landing on that name. In an Ask the Developer interview published on Nintendo's website, Switch 2 producer Kouichi Kawamoto said Nintendo's teams had a difficult time coming up with a name for the console.

"There were a lot of ideas for the name, and we really struggled to find the right one," he said.

One of the ideas that Nintendo considered was "Super Nintendo Switch." Nintendo decided against this, however, because it "didn't feel right to use the same naming convention as the Super NES."

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During the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct, Deltarune was revealed as one of the upcoming titles for Nintendo's next-gen console. Deltarune has historically been released chapter by chapter, and this is the first time we've heard about Chapters 3 and 4.

Deltarune Chapters 1, 2, 3, and 4 will launch with the Switch 2. Even though they were announced during the Switch 2 Direct, Chapters 3 and 4 aren't exclusives for the new Switch. Deltarune Chapters 3 and 4 will also be available for the standard Switch, Steam, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5.

Deltarune, the turn-based RPG by Undertale creator Toby Fox, features a parallel universe similar to the world of Undertale. The main character Kris stars as the protagonist, surrounded by strong personalities like the bully-turned-friend Susie and mild-mannered mage, Ralsei. It launched on October 31, 2018 with a free demo of Chapter 1. Then, on September 17, 2021, Toby surprised us with Chapter 2.

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Nintendo fans won't have to wait much longer to get their hands on the Switch 2. The successor to one of the best-selling video game consoles of all time is slated to release June 5, Nintendo announced during its hour-long livestream that fully lifted the veil on the Switch 2. You also don't have to wait much longer to preorder the Nintendo Switch 2, as Nintendo revealed that major retailers will open reservations online and in stores on April 9. The Nintendo Switch 2 will cost $450 at launch. There will also be a bundle with a digital copy of the Switch 2-exclusive launch title Mario Kart World for $500.

Where to Preorder Nintendo Switch 2 $450 | Releases June 5

When you open the Nintendo Switch 2's box, here's what you'll find inside:

• Switch 2 console with 7.9-inch display
• Two of Nintendo's new Joy-Con controllers
• Joy-Con grip for TV mode
• Nintendo Switch 2 Dock for TV mode
• AC adapter with USB-C power cable
• HDMI cable

Best Buy, Walmart, GameStop, and Target will be taking Nintendo Switch 2 preorders starting April 9. It's unknown at this time if Amazon will add the Switch 2 or the upcoming first-party games and accessories to its inventory.

• Best Buy - Sign up for preorder notifications
• Walmart's Nintendo store page
• GameStop's Nintendo Switch 2 store page
• Target's Nintendo store page
• Amazon's Nintendo store page

See at Best Buy See at Walmart See at Target Nintendo Switch 2 Preorder Bonuses

Video game consoles typically don't come with preorder bonuses in the same way that games often do, but with Nintendo products, retailers often have exclusive bonuses. These range from practical products themed around Nintendo, such as tote bags and popcorn buckets, to display pieces and little trinkets. One unknown retailer is rumored to have a collectible coin for those who preorder the Switch 2. We will update this article as Switch 2 preorder bonuses are confirmed.

We expect that all major retailers who typically carry Nintendo hardware and first-party games will create placeholder pages for the Nintendo Switch 2 either today or in the coming days. Best Buy, for instance, has had a sign-up page on its site since Nintendo officially announced the Switch 2 in January. You can still sign up to receive notifications now, if interested. At GameStop, the actual store page where you'll be able to order the Switch 2 is now live. Like Best Buy, you can sign up for notifications to be informed on preorder timing. Target and Walmart have banners on their Nintendo store pages for the Switch 2.

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Fans eagerly anticipating news about Hollow Knight: Silksong have received a sliver of hope, as the recent Switch 2 Nintendo Direct briefly featured Team Cherry's long-in-the-works sequel.

Hollow Knight: Silksong made an appearance during a montage of third-party games set to come to Switch 2. The gameplay clip was only a few seconds long but did confirm that Hollow Knight: Silksong is slated to release on Switch 2 in 2025, though no other details were provided.

Team Cherry's highly anticipated metroidvania was originally announced for Nintendo Switch and PC as part of an E3 2019 Nintendo Direct, and was later confirmed to also be releasing on Xbox and PlayStation consoles.

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Nintendo showcased a ton of games for its upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 system during its April Direct presentation, including a brand-new racing game starring the adorable puffball Kirby.

Kirby Air Riders, a sequel to the GameCube cult hit Kirby Air Ride, is coming exclusively to Switch 2. Moreover, it's being directed by series creator Masahiro Sakurai, most famous for his work on the Super Smash Bros. franchise. This marks Sakurai's first Kirby title since the original Air Ride.

The announcement trailer, seen above, offers a brief look at the new game, showcasing Kirby on a rocket-powered Warp Star racing through a verdant meadow against three other Kirbies. No other details were shared, but Nintendo confirmed the title will launch sometime this year.

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The Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller was officially revealed during the latest Nintendo Direct, and it's making some incremental improvements to the existing gamepad. Launching on June 5 alongside Switch 2, it includes several new buttons--including a C button to launch GameChat and two back buttons.

Beyond the inclusion of new buttons, you'll also find a headphone jack--a notable omission on the current Switch Pro controller. Beyond that, it looks to share many of the same features. Nintendo is yet to confirm all its specifications, but we'd expect gyro controls and rumble to make a return. It's unclear if Hall Effect or TMR sensors are used for the joysticks.

Nintendo Switch 2 Pro ControllerGallery

As far as looks are concerned, it's quite similar to the standard Switch Pro Controller. Featuring offset analog sticks, a D-pad, four face buttons, and four bumpers on the top of the gamepad, it looks remarkably similar to its predecessor.

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As part of the Nintendo Direct today, Nintendo announced a brand-new 3D Donkey Kong game It's called Donkey Kong Bananza, and it will release on July 17, 2025 for Nintendo Switch 2.

A trailer for Bananza showed DK smashing and pounding everything in his way. More details will be announced for the title in the time ahead, Nintendo said. Check out the announcement trailer below.

Be sure to check out GameSpot's news roundup gallery below to see all the biggest news and reveals from the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct.

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As part of the Switch 2 Direct, Nintendo has announced that GameCube games will come to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack for the first time--and they'll be exclusive to the Switch 2.

A small library of GameCube games will be available on the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription service as soon as the Switch 2 launches, with the launch games including favorites like Wind Waker, Soulcalibur 2, and F-Zero GX. Some titles will even have extra functionality on the Switch 2, with games that support multiplayer now supporting online play for up to four players, as well as local play.

While only the three games will be available from launch, Nintendo has teased some of the other GameCube games that will come to the Switch 2 further down the track, including:

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