A self-bought Christmas present for dad :D
I’d estimate Switch 2 launches in early calendar 2023 (or fiscal Q4 2023).
The one thing I really want to see is Switch 2 acting as a high end Switch 1 rather than a completely separate platform. Nintendo’s no longer using these obscure custom power PC chips, this is mainline ARM lineage. Much like others in this lineage and others, the majority of games can be released to work on both hardware different settings. Only the games that absolutely need the higher settings need be exclusive to Switch 2 - which, let’s be real, is going to be a small minority as most games released on Switch today could easily work on Wii with lower settings.
It’d be good for Nintendo and third parties as they can continue selling software to their massive existing base at the same time as their growing new base. Great for customers as it means they’re not buying software forever stuck on obsolete hardware with obsolete settings. Great for Nintendo because customers are already increasing the chance they’ll upgrade by investing in the Switch software ecosystem - essentially, buying Switch 2 games before they upgrade. Want that 36 player mode? Those more detailed graphics? Smoother animations? Buy the new hardware. Want to experience the next Mario and Zelda in its maximum glory? Buy the new hardware! How about GTA6, Witcher 4, and the exclusive Super Mario Galaxy 3? Wanna be hardcore and compete with the best frame rates in whatever area shooter you play? Buy the new hardware you fucking peasant!!! - that can be Nintendo’s slogan :)
I describe myself as a little dose of toxic masculinity.
