NVIDIA has shared some tantalizing details about their collaboration with Nintendo on the forthcoming Nintendo Switch 2. They revealed that the new console is set to boast graphics capabilities ten times more powerful than its predecessor, the Nintendo Switch.
At the heart of this powerhouse is a custom NVIDIA GPU, complete with RT Cores and Tensor Cores, promising jaw-dropping visuals and AI-driven enhancements. The Tensor Cores are vital for ramping up AI-powered graphics while ensuring efficient power use, while the RT Cores contribute to in-game realism by providing dynamic lighting and natural reflections.
For those who enjoy gaming on the go, the Nintendo Switch 2 promises “ultra-smooth, tear-free gameplay” when it’s in Handheld Mode, thanks to the inclusion of NVIDIA’s G-SYNC technology, which allows for a variable refresh rate.
In a recent blog update, NVIDIA highlighted the extraordinary effort behind the new system, noting that the development involved “1,000 engineer-years of effort across every element — from system and chip design to a custom GPU, application programming interfaces (APIs) and world-class development tools.” These enhancements take the Nintendo Switch 2 to new heights, enabling up to 4K gaming in TV mode and up to 120 frames per second at 1080p in handheld mode. The console also supports high dynamic range and AI upscaling, ensuring visuals are sharper and gameplay smoother than ever before.
Delving deeper into the tech, NVIDIA explained how the new RT Cores introduce real-time ray tracing for life-like lighting, reflections, and shadows, bringing more immersive gaming environments to life. Meanwhile, Tensor Cores drive features like Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS), which boosts resolution for crisper details without compromising image quality. They also enable AI-driven functionalities like face tracking and background removal in video chats, enhancing social gaming and streaming experiences.
Set to make its debut in retail stores worldwide on June 5, 2025, the Nintendo Switch 2 will be available for £395.99, or $449.99.