The whispers surrounding Nintendo’s next-generation console, tentatively dubbed the “Switch 2,” have reached a fever pitch, fueled by a series of leaks and an intriguing 3D-printed mockup showcased by accessory maker Genki. While Nintendo maintained its official absence from CES, the unofficial unveiling of this mockup effectively stole the spotlight, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the future of handheld gaming. The mockup, which Genki claims is based on insider information, presents a console wider than the original Switch, boasting slightly larger Joy-Con controllers designed for enhanced comfort. This subtle increase in size positions it closer to Valve’s Steam Deck in terms of dimensions, although it remains noticeably smaller due to the less pronounced ergonomic grips of the Joy-Cons.
One of the most significant revelations pertains to the attachment mechanism of the Joy-Cons. Departing from the traditional sliding rail design of the original Switch, the Switch 2 mockup features a magnetic connection system. A prominent button located on the backside of each Joy-Con triggers the release mechanism, pushing out a pin that disengages the magnetic hold. While brute force removal remains a possibility, Genki CEO Eddie Tsai assures that the Joy-Cons feel secure during normal use and detach effortlessly with the dedicated button. Tsai, however, remained tight-lipped about the source of his information, adding an air of mystery to the already buzzing speculation.
Further fueling the intrigue, Tsai revealed the presence of an optical sensor within the Joy-Con mounting channel. This, combined with a potential attachment, hints at possible mouse-like functionality, mirroring the innovative approach adopted by Lenovo’s Legion Go handheld. Imagine the possibilities this opens up for gameplay, adding a layer of precision and control previously unseen in Nintendo’s handheld consoles. This revelation paints a picture of a device poised to not only iterate on the existing Switch formula but also to introduce entirely new ways to interact with games.
The emergence of the Genki mockup follows a trail of leaks and rumors that have been steadily building anticipation for the Switch successor. In December 2023, YouTube channel SwitchUp unveiled a different 3D-printed mockup, sourced from a Chinese case manufacturer. While that model largely resembled an enlarged version of the current Switch, it did highlight some potential changes, including a relocated USB-C port and an enigmatic square button beneath the Home button on the right Joy-Con. Shortly after, accessory maker Dbrand, known for its custom device skins, announced its “Killswitch 2” case, designed based on what they claimed were “actual dimensions” obtained from a “3D scan of the real hardware.” Dbrand CEO Adam Ijaz also corroborated the magnetic Joy-Con attachment and hinted at the mysterious square button bearing a “C” imprint, the function of which remains unknown. These leaks culminated in leaked photos purportedly showing the Switch 2’s dock and the internal components of a Joy-Con, further solidifying the growing evidence.
The convergence of these leaks, coupled with the hands-on experience provided by the Genki mockup, paints a compelling picture of Nintendo’s next-generation console. The wider design, larger Joy-Cons, magnetic attachment system, and hinted-at mouse functionality all point towards a device that builds upon the strengths of the original Switch while incorporating innovative features that could redefine handheld gaming. While the mockup remains an unofficial representation, the level of detail and corroboration with previous leaks lends credence to its accuracy, further intensifying the anticipation for Nintendo’s official reveal.
With Nintendo’s self-imposed deadline of April 2025 looming closer, the unveiling of the Switch 2 seems imminent. While the company has remained characteristically tight-lipped, the steady stream of leaks and the tangible evidence presented by the mockups offer a tantalizing preview of what’s to come. As the gaming world eagerly awaits official confirmation, these unofficial glimpses provide a window into the future of Nintendo’s handheld gaming ambitions, promising a device that pushes the boundaries of innovation and further solidifies Nintendo’s position as a leader in the industry.
