Nintendo Switch 2 event live — stay updated with the latest announcements and reveals in real time

The Switch 2 launch is imminent, and as Nintendo revealed during the initial announcement in January, a dedicated Direct presentation for the new console is set to take place later today. There has been a steady stream of rumors and leaks regarding Nintendo's new hardware for several months, but the time has finally come for the official information to be disclosed.

The Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 presentation will begin at 6 am PT / 9 am ET / 2 pm BST on the company’s YouTube channel (linked below). The company has also confirmed that the livestream will last "approximately 60 minutes," providing "a closer look" at the eagerly awaited device.

The presentation is anticipated to showcase just how powerful this new hybrid console will be for its games. There have also been suggestions about new features, such as a mouse mode for the Joy-Cons and a unique link button that Nintendo has kept under wraps. A release date for the device, rumored to be in May or June, along with the pricing, is expected to be announced today as well.

Current rumors and leaks indicate that Nintendo is aiming to set the price of the hardware at around $400, which is $100 more than the original Switch's launch price from eight years ago in 2017.

With the confirmed duration of the presentation, speculation about additional content beyond the mentioned details is already buzzing within gaming communities. Many anticipate Nintendo will introduce a significant first-party game as a launch title for the new hardware, potentially arriving alongside a range of cutting-edge games, including Elden Ring, Cyberpunk 2077, Baldur's Gate 3, and various Xbox ports.

Remember that the Switch 2 will feature backward compatibility, allowing purchasers to enjoy their original Switch titles. Similar to other consoles in the current generation, publishers may begin offering Switch 2-enhanced versions of their games for the latest hardware. The newly announced Virtual Game Cards and digital game sharing features will also be available on day one for the new console.

Additionally, more gaming content related to the Switch 2 has already been confirmed by Nintendo for after the event. Two Treehouse Live sessions are scheduled for April 3 and 4, providing hours of gameplay directly from the Switch 2 for those curious about the device's potential.

As always, for the latest news on hardware launches and industry developments, be sure to follow our dedicated hardware coverage.