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Nintendo Switch 2 Launches Worldwide With Mario Kart World

Nintendo’s first new platform in eight years is now available, accompanied by more than 20 launch-day games and a Mario Kart World hardware bundle.

By NexusArc Staff Published Jun 5, 2025 384 words

Image: Nintendo.

Nintendo Switch 2 is now available worldwide, marking Nintendo’s first new game platform in eight years. The system costs $449.99 in the United States, while a $499.99 bundle includes a digital copy of Mario Kart World, today’s flagship launch game.

More than 20 games are available for launch, spanning new releases, upgraded Nintendo Switch titles, and backward-compatible software. The original Switch library remains an important part of the system, although Nintendo advises that some older games may have compatibility limitations.

A larger and more powerful Switch

Switch 2 retains the original system’s portable, tabletop, and television modes. Its display is larger, and the new dock supports higher-resolution output on compatible televisions. Updated performance allows games to target sharper images, smoother frame rates, or more detailed worlds than the previous hardware.

The Joy-Con 2 controllers attach magnetically and can be used as mouse-like pointers in supported games. Nintendo has also enlarged several controls and added a C button for GameChat, making communication one of the most visible additions to the platform.

GameChat brings voice and video into the system

GameChat lets groups speak while playing and share their game screens. A compatible USB-C camera can add video. Nintendo is offering an introductory period without a Nintendo Switch Online membership, but the service will later require a subscription.

The feature is designed to make remote play feel more social without requiring a separate phone or computer. Its value will depend on connection quality, parental controls, and how widely players adopt it across different games.

Mario Kart World leads the launch lineup

Mario Kart World expands the racing series into connected environments where drivers can leave the track and travel between events. Other launch-day choices include Nintendo Switch 2 editions of existing games, third-party releases, and backward-compatible Switch titles.

Hardware launch days can bring limited stock, busy downloads, and software updates. Buyers should use official retailers and avoid paying inflated resale prices without checking local availability. Existing Switch owners also need to decide whether the larger display, added performance, and new social features justify moving immediately.

Today establishes the starting point rather than the full value of the console. Nintendo Switch 2’s long-term position will depend on the games that follow and on whether developers make meaningful use of its additional power, new controllers, and communication tools.