Recent leaks surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2 have caused a significant stir, not only among fans but also within Nintendo of America itself. These leaks, which include alleged details about the console's reveal date, upcoming games, and even mockups of the device, have been described by Nintendo as "unofficial." Images of the Switch 2’s motherboard and Joy-Con have also surfaced online, fueling speculation and giving fans a glimpse of what might be expected from the next-gen console.
In a video on their YouTube channel, former Nintendo PR managers Kit Ellis and Krysta Yang, who together have over a decade of experience at the company, delved into the disruptive effects these leaks are likely having inside Nintendo. Yang emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “I am 100% sure that they are really mad, to the most severe level.” She humorously referred to the intensity of internal communications as "hot hot hot" with numerous exclamation marks, underscoring the company's frustration.
The former managers highlighted how leaks create a high-stress environment for staff, who must juggle leak investigations alongside their regular duties. Yang described it as a “highly chaotic situation” and a “real pressure cooker.” Despite the chaos, Ellis expressed confidence in Nintendo's investigative team, saying, “They will eventually get to the bottom of it.”
The impact of these leaks extends beyond internal disruption; they may also affect Nintendo's ability to surprise its fans. Yang noted that the leaks could alter how the official announcement is perceived, while Ellis added, “It’s impacting the way we are all going to view this official announcement.” Both firmly dismissed any speculation that Nintendo might be orchestrating the leaks, with Ellis stating, “Nintendo did not do this on purpose,” and emphasizing the company’s emphasis on the "value of surprise."
The extensive nature of the Switch 2 leaks might prompt Nintendo to reassess its product security measures, according to Ellis. Given that it's been eight years since the original Switch was launched in March 2017, the company's processes for hardware reveals might need updating.
Genki Nintendo Switch Mockup Images from CES 2025
3 Images
As Nintendo has yet to officially reveal anything about the system, all current information remains speculative and subject to change. However, a formal announcement is expected in the first quarter of this year. Nintendo has confirmed that the yet-to-be-announced Switch 2 will be backward-compatible with original Switch games and will feature Nintendo Switch Online. As for a release date, the console is not expected to launch during Nintendo's current financial year, meaning it will arrive no earlier than April 2025.