The gaming community waits with bated breath as the Nintendo Switch 2 launch approaches on June 5. However, there's important news our readers should note: Nintendo has confirmed there won't be traditional pre-launch review access to Switch 2 hardware, breaking from typical console launch procedures. This means we won't be able to evaluate Mario Kart World, Welcome Tour, or enhanced Zelda titles and other ports before launch day to provide our usual timely reviews.
This development impacts how we – along with other media outlets including our technical experts at Digital Foundry – planned to answer your critical questions ahead of launch. At IGN, we take pride in delivering comprehensive hardware and software evaluations precisely when you need them most to make informed purchasing decisions.
Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery
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While unconventional, we're adapting our approach to deliver thorough coverage despite these constraints. Once our preordered Switch 2 units arrive, we'll immediately begin testing and reporting on various aspects including:
- A review-in-progress of Mario Kart World by our racing game expert Logan Plant
- Detailed analysis of enhanced Switch 2 versions of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom
- Performance evaluations of third-party ports like Cyberpunk 2077 and Hogwarts Legacy
- Comprehensive hardware assessments of the console, new Joy-Cons, Pro Controller 2, and accessories
We aim to publish the majority of our evaluations within the first week post-launch, while also addressing emerging questions from early adopters worldwide. Though this presents logistical challenges, our team stands prepared to deliver the high-quality coverage our audience expects.
