Mario Kart fans gear up for Nintendo Switch 2 launch week

Nintendo Switch 2 launch week is here, and with online pre-orders out of stock, we're expecting some lengthy queues outside game shops on Thursday.

The new handheld console launches worldwide on Thursday, June 5th, with Mario Kart World as its first big title, and social networks have been buzzing with anticipation.

Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa has called it "the next step in at-home gaming that can be taken on the go", adding: "I truly believe that Nintendo Switch 2 is a leap forward in our journey of putting smiles on the faces of everyone that Nintendo touches."

Pop and swap: Magnetic Joy-Con 2 controllers

The Switch 2 is a direct successor to 2017's Nintendo Switch, with a bigger screen and a sleek all-black colour scheme, with just hints of the classic red and blue on the Joy-Con 2 controllers.

Those controllers have been brought right up to date, eight years after the launch of the Switch 1, and now snap easily on and off using magnetic connectors.

With a battery life of around 20 hours, you should get through a gaming session without needing to recharge your Joy-Con 2s. But if you do, you can just pop them off and attach them to an external charging dock, while you carry on playing with a spare set.

What's in the box?

There are two versions of the Nintendo Switch 2: just the console and accessories, or all of that plus a Mario Kart World download code. The game also retails separately for around $80.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe was the bestselling title on the Switch 1, so it's pretty clear to see why Nintendo have gone with a racing game for launch day. It's also a good fit for a handheld console, which can give a realistic simulation of steering.

Aside from the Mario Kart World install code, both editions of the Nintendo Switch 2 include:

• The Nintendo Switch 2 console itself
• Nintendo Switch 2 dock
• Nintendo Switch 2 AC adapter
• Joy-Con 2 (left and right)
• Joy-Con 2 straps
• Joy-Con 2 grip x1
• 256 GB storage
• HDMI cable
• 'Important Information' leaflet

If you want to expand your storage, you'll need a microSD Express card. However, the 256 GB internal storage should be enough to get you started.

How big is Nintendo Switch 2?

The Switch 2 has grown slightly compared with its predecessor. It now measures in at 166mm x 272mm x 13.9mm with the Joy-Con 2s attached, increasing to 30.7mm thick if you measure from the tip of the Control Sticks.

And if you're worried about weight, don't be - with the Joy-Con 2s attached, the complete console weighs 534g. Detach the controllers and it's just over 400g for the centre screen part.

How much does Nintendo Switch 2 cost?

The Nintendo Switch 2 price depends on whether you want Mario Kart World. As of launch week, Nintendo UK lists the console and game at the following prices (but it's out of stock).

• Nintendo Switch 2 (console/accessories only) - $449.99
• Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World - $499.99
• Mario Kart World (game only, digital) - $79.99
• Mario Kart World (game only, physical) - $79

The bundle puts the price for Mario Kart World at just $50, and you get all the same accessories. So, unless you really don't like racing games, it's a bit of a no-brainer.

A busy month for Mario!

The Switch 2 is in hot demand. Nintendo's website shows it as being out of stock and that processing payments for pre-orders "may take some time". Some GAME customers had their pre-orders in at the end of May, only to be told that they had been cancelled.

For some people, it's a matter of timing. The first Nintendo Switch 1 consoles are eight years old now, and many gamers would rather upgrade to the new generation AND get their hands on Mario Kart World as soon as possible.

LEGO Super Mario Kart - Mario & Standard Kart (72037)

Price: $169.99

Release date: Available now

Pieces: 1,972

Size: 32cm x 19cm x 22cm (L x W x H)

LEGO Insiders points: 1,200

It's not the first big Mario launch day of the past month, though. On Thursday, May 15th, LEGO Super Mario Kart - Mario & Standard Kart (72037) hit the shelves. It's a footlong, almost 2,000-piece set that will keep you occupied until you can get your hands on a Switch 2.

With posable arms and head, it's also an excellent display piece, which is why iDisplayit have a custom vinyl background for their LEGO Mario Kart display case.

Are you excited for all the latest Mario releases?