Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Reviews Postponed to June 5

The gaming community eagerly awaits the Nintendo Switch 2 launch on June 5, poised to secure their consoles the moment preorders go live. However, IGN readers should note an important update: Nintendo has confirmed there will be no early review access to the Switch 2 hardware—a departure from typical console launches. This means we won’t be able to test titles like Mario Kart World, Welcome Tour, or enhanced Zelda ports before release, delaying our usual in-depth reviews.

This change disrupts our plans (and those of other media outlets, including Digital Foundry) to provide timely answers ahead of launch. Delivering hands-on insights about new hardware and games—helping you make informed spending decisions—is a cornerstone of our work at IGN, and we take pride in that responsibility.

Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery

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We’ve adapted to similar challenges before, so here’s our plan: Once our preordered Switch 2 units arrive, we’ll immediately start testing. Expect a Review-in-Progress for Mario Kart World (by NVC host Logan Plant), performance analyses of upgraded Zelda titles and third-party ports like Cyberpunk 2077, and hardware evaluations of the console (by Tom Marks), Joy-Cons, Pro Controller 2 (Michael Higham), and accessories. Our aim is to publish most reviews within a week of launch, addressing any emerging questions as early adopters worldwide put the system through its paces.

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Though it’ll require extra effort, we’re committed to delivering thorough, unbiased coverage without cutting corners. Stay tuned—we’re ready to tackle this launch head-on.