For some time it has been widely speculated that Nintendo would release a new Switch model at a cheaper price in an effort to boost sales and increase the console’s install base. However, a new rumor suggests that the Nintendo Switch console family will instead grow to include two new models, one for the more casual gamer and one for the hardcore.

Wall Street Journal follows up on previous reporting to say that the Nintendo Switch will expand to include a “Pro” style console and a cheaper model meant to replace the 3DS. The Nintendo Switch Pro will not be as powerful as the PS4 Pro or Xbox One X, but it will offer a premium, enhanced experience.

Moreover, the Nintendo Switch Premium is said to sport a design that will “surprise” gamers, which suggests that is more than just a 4K Nintendo Switch. Perhaps the quality of the screen is higher or its design is markedly different from the Nintendo Switch we know currently - anything is possible.

For the cheaper Nintendo Switch model, the company is said to be looking to replace its 3DS line and thus some are speculating that it may be portable only. The console is also said to drop several features in order to cut costs, but only vibration was mentioned. As it stands, the Nintendo Switch retails for $299 and the new 3DS costs $250, so a few concessions to drop $50 seems feasible.

The rumor states that the new Nintendo Switch models will be a key point of focus for Nintendo’s E3 2019 presence and will go on sale shortly thereafter. With both Pokemon Sword and Shield and a new Animal Crossing game set to release for Nintendo Switch before the year is over, it behooves Nintendo to deliver these new versions before then. Still, there will be a lot of questions surrounding both models to determine if they are worth the purchase. A pro Nintendo Switch will need to be powerful enough to make the upgrade worth it, whereas a cheaper model will need to have an attractive price point. We’ll see if Nintendo can meet those expectations in a few months.

Source: Wall Street Journal