Rumors have been swirling for some time that Nintendo plans on releasing an upgraded version of the Nintendo Switch, with some referring to the hypothetical console as the Switch Pro. Now new evidence has surfaced to suggest that the upgraded Switch console is indeed real, with production expected to start at some point later this year for a planned worldwide release in the first quarter of 2021.
The report was translated by VGC and originated from a site called Economic Daily News. According to the reports, sources close to the Nintendo Switch supply chain (such as third-party hardware manufacturers) have confirmed that the new console is in development. Details on what exactly the new Switch console will entail are scarce, but it will supposedly have more "interactivity" and a higher-quality screen. It's unclear if it will be more powerful or play exclusive games, but that seems unlikely.
If Nintendo is planning to release an upgraded Switch console, it shouldn't come as that big of a surprise to fans. After all, Nintendo has a long history of releasing revised versions of its various platforms, especially when it comes to handhelds. The Switch is a handheld/home console hybrid, and so a new version of it has always seemed like an inevitability. And with Switch sales still as strong as ever, it makes sense for Nintendo to strike while the iron is hot.
Assuming the reports are accurate and Nintendo is indeed planning to release a Switch Pro or simply a new Switch model, it's quite likely that such a product will be announced sooner rather than later. In fact, if the rumors of a Nintendo Direct presentation are true, it would make sense for the hardware to be revealed at that point. So far, though, Nintendo has kept quiet about any Nintendo Direct plans that it may have, though reliable leakers have said that the company may have a presentation on Friday, August 28, or by the middle of September.
Besides an upgraded Switch, there are other rumors about what the next Nintendo Direct will entail. For instance, many believe that Nintendo is going to reveal a 3D Super Mario collection soon that will collect Super Mario 64, Super Mario Sunshine, Super Mario Galaxy, and Super Mario Galaxy 2 together in one package. This collection will reportedly be Nintendo's way of celebrating the Super Mario franchise's 35th anniversary and will also serve as the Switch's big holiday 2020 game.
Other announcements rumored for the Nintendo Direct include a Skyward Sword Switch port as well as a Super Mario 3D World port. If Nintendo is planning to host a Nintendo Direct soon as expected, hopefully fans get clarification about these rumored games as well as the rumored Switch upgraded console.
Source: Economic Daily News (via VGC)
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