Nintendo Responds to CES 2025 Switch 2 Leaks

Nintendo has issued an unusual statement regarding the recent flurry of Switch 2 leaks stemming from CES 2025. The company confirmed that the images circulating online are not official Nintendo materials, a rare public acknowledgment of leaks. This clarification is unsurprising, given Nintendo's absence from this year's CES.

The Switch 2 has been the subject of numerous leaks since late 2024, a period coinciding with reports of the console entering mass production. Accessory manufacturer Genki's display of a purported Switch 2 replica at CES further fueled speculation. Images of this replica quickly spread across social media.

In response to inquiries from the Sankei Shimbun, Nintendo officially labeled the Genki replica images as unofficial. The company emphasized its non-participation in CES 2025, reinforcing the inauthenticity of the leaked materials.

Genki's Replica: Accurate or Not?

While Nintendo refrained from commenting on the accuracy of Genki's model, its consistency with prior leaks suggests potential validity. The most noticeable differences from the original Switch include a slightly larger size and an additional button below the right Joy-Con's home button, labeled "C," with an unknown function.

Genki CEO Eddie Tsai, while unable to shed light on the "C" button, offered additional details. He suggested the Switch 2 Joy-Cons will use magnetic attachments instead of sliding rails and function as mouse controllers—claims aligning with previous reports.

Nintendo previously committed to unveiling the Switch successor during fiscal year 2024 (ending March 31, 2025). With approximately 80 days remaining, anticipation remains high. Retail availability is anticipated no earlier than the second quarter of 2025, with a rumored price point around $399.