Teaser Video Unveiled, Larger Screen and Enhanced Controller
Full Compatibility with Previous Switch Games Confirmed
Expected Price of 600,000 KRW Raises Concerns Among Parents
Global Hands-On Events Scheduled, Including Korea in Late May
Nintendo revealed a teaser video for the 'Nintendo Switch 2' on the 17th and announced plans to release it within the year.
According to the Nintendo Switch 2 teaser video released on the official website and YouTube channel, the dedicated controller 'Joy-Con' and the portable screen size have increased compared to the Nintendo Switch, while the button layout remains almost the same. The usage method, which allows users to play games on a TV screen by docking the device into a dedicated dock after using it portably, is also maintained.
While the previous model used a sliding attachment method, the Switch 2 adopts a vertical attachment method and enhances stability with a magnetic attachment system. Additionally, Nintendo stated that games released for the previous Nintendo Switch, both in package and download versions, will be fully compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2.
The price is expected to reach 600,000 KRW, causing concern among parents. Previously, the 'Animal Crossing: New Horizons' edition of the Nintendo Switch, released in 2020, had a retail price of 360,000 KRW but was traded online for well over 1,000,000 KRW. Even though it was not a limited edition, it was impossible to find offline. As supply could not keep up with demand, consumers had to purchase it at prices much higher than the already high retail price.
Beyond the cost, there is also worry that children might reduce their study time due to being absorbed in playing Nintendo. Earlier, the CEO of the educational culture company Woongjin ThinkBig stated, "Nintendo's competitor is Woongjin ThinkBig."
Specific information about the release schedule of the Nintendo Switch 2 will be announced at the new product launch event 'Nintendo Direct' on April 2. Following that, starting April 4 in New York, USA, and Paris, France, events where people can experience the Nintendo Switch 2 first will be held sequentially in various cities worldwide. In Korea, the event will take place from May 31 to June 1 at the KINTEX exhibition center located in Ilsan, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi Province.
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