Nintendo Switch 2 Direct: How To Watch And What To Expect

After much anticipation, Nintendo is finally ready to unveil the Switch 2. Following a brief preview earlier this year, the company will host a dedicated Direct event on April 2. Though specific details remain under wraps, you can expect announcements regarding the release date, price, and initial game lineup. This promises to be one of the most exciting live stream events of the year, and it would be wise to tune in, even if you're not considering purchasing a Switch 2 right away.

If you're looking to catch the event, here's what you need to know about the April 2 Nintendo Switch 2 Direct: when it airs, where to watch it, and what you can look forward to. If you can't catch it live, we will provide a comprehensive recap as it unfolds.

When is the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct?

The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct is scheduled for Wednesday, April 2, starting at 6 a.m. Pacific Time. Fans on the West Coast will need to rise early for this event. While Nintendo hasn't specified the duration, the 2017 presentation lasted a little over an hour, so expect something similar this time around.

Where to watch the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct

Nintendo's official YouTube channel. We'll embed the stream here as soon as it goes live. It’s also likely that Nintendo will stream it on its official website for those who prefer to watch it there.

What to expect from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct

Mario Kart running on a Switch 2. — Nintendo

Don't be fooled into thinking this will be just another teaser; this event is expected to be substantial. Drawing parallels to the 2017 Nintendo Switch reveal, we can anticipate a wealth of information spanning hardware details, online service changes, and game announcements. Crucially, we expect the reveal of the price and release date. The 2017 event unveiled the Switch's upcoming release just two months later, suggesting a similar timeline for the Switch 2, potentially setting a June launch—aligning with current rumors. Pricing, however, remains uncertain, especially with recent tariffs possibly affecting costs. If the price is unexpectedly high for a Nintendo console, the tariffs could be a factor.

It's likely we'll gain insights beyond just pricing and release details. Specifications for the Switch 2 are still under wraps, so this may be the moment we hear about them, especially if the console is capable of 4K output. Expect more information about the unique “mouse-con” controllers and perhaps a brief update on how Nintendo Switch Online will operate, assuming there aren't major changes from the previous version. With limited time available, expect minimal elaboration on features that remain unchanged.

But the main attraction will undoubtedly be the games. Currently, we know very little about what's in store for the Switch 2, and this is Nintendo's chance to change that narrative. Major titles like Mario Kart 9 and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond are likely to be prominent, but there may also be some unexpected reveals. A new 3D Mario game seems plausible given the considerable gap since Super Mario Odyssey. I wouldn’t be surprised if titles from the Fire Emblem and Animal Crossing franchises make appearances as well. Additionally, we can anticipate a selection of third-party games, much like the significant focus during the 2017 showcase.