Nintendo Switch 2 May Release in Mid-May
Gamers eagerly awaiting the Nintendo Switch 2 may not have to wait much longer. Industry speculation now suggests a mid-May 2025 launch. While Nintendo has yet to confirm the exact release date, multiple clues and patterns indicate that the new console could arrive sooner than expected.
Why May 15 Could Be the Launch Date
A recent analysis by ThunderStash Gaming on X highlights why May 15 is a strong candidate for the Nintendo Switch 2 launch. Their theory is based on past industry trends and Nintendo’s own launch history, rather than insider leaks.
One key clue is the release of Doom: The Dark Ages on May 15. Rumors suggest this title will be available on the Switch 2 at launch. Given Nintendo’s history with the Doom franchise, this timing makes sense.
Another important detail is the unusual mid-month release of the new LEGO Mario Kart set, also scheduled for May 15. Typically, LEGO releases new sets at the beginning of a month, making this exception a potential sign of a connection to a major event—possibly a new Mario Kart 9 on the Switch 2.
Nintendo’s Hands-On Event Hints at Timing
Nintendo has planned a hands-on experience tour for the Switch 2 across major U.S. cities from April 4 to May 11. After this, there is a gap before the tour resumes in Seoul, South Korea, on May 31. This break suggests a significant event, possibly the launch of the Switch 2, occurring between these dates.
Additionally, reports indicate that 400,000 Switch 2 units were shipped from a Vietnamese manufacturing plant to North America in January 2025. Experts believe it is unlikely that Nintendo would stockpile these units for too long, further reinforcing the idea of an imminent launch.
Historical Trends Support a Spring Launch
Nintendo has a history of launching major games and consoles in spring. For instance, Mario Kart 8 debuted in May 2014, with its Switch version arriving in April 2017. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom was released in May 2023, and Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is set for May 2025. Given this pattern, a May launch for the Switch 2 aligns with Nintendo’s past strategies.
Will Nintendo Confirm the Launch in April?
Speculation suggests Nintendo could officially announce the Switch 2’s release date during an expected April 2 Nintendo Direct. This event might focus on the console’s technical details and showcase its features. If the May 15 launch date is accurate, it would mean a short marketing window between the announcement and release.
Nintendo has not commented on these rumors, but anticipation continues to build. As more details emerge, gamers worldwide are keeping a close watch for any official word from Nintendo.
Final Thoughts
While no official confirmation has been given, industry patterns strongly suggest a mid-May release for the Nintendo Switch 2. With significant game releases, an unusual LEGO launch, and a strategic hands-on event schedule, all signs point to a spring debut.
Gamers should stay tuned for potential updates during the April Nintendo Direct. If the rumors hold true, players could be getting their hands on the next-generation Nintendo console sooner than expected.
