Former Nintendo of America employees shed light on the impact of recent Switch 2 leaks, highlighting the significant internal disruption and compromised element of surprise for fans. Leaks have revealed potential release dates, upcoming games, and even device mockups, including images of the motherboard and Joy-Cons. Nintendo has dismissed these as "unofficial."

In a YouTube video, ex-Nintendo PR managers Kit Ellis and Krysta Yang, leveraging their combined decade-plus of experience, discussed the internal fallout. Yang emphasized the intense frustration within Nintendo, describing the likely flurry of strongly worded emails. The pair detailed the disruptive effect leak investigations have on already busy staff, creating a high-stress, chaotic environment, particularly close to the anticipated reveal. However, Ellis expressed confidence in Nintendo's investigative capabilities.

Genki Nintendo Switch Mockup Images from CES 2025

The leaks have undeniably diminished the element of surprise surrounding the official announcement, impacting fan anticipation, according to both Ellis and Yang. They strongly refuted speculation of internal leaks, emphasizing Nintendo's dedication to the "value of surprise" and the extensive training staff receive on this principle.

Ellis anticipates a reassessment of Nintendo's product security protocols following this incident, given the eight-year gap since the original Switch launch in March 2017. This significant timeframe highlights the need for updated procedures for hardware reveals.

What rumored Switch 2 feature are you most excited for?

4K upscalingLarger screenOptical sensor on JoyconMysterious "C" buttonFaster SD cardsMagnetic locking Joycon

While all information remains unofficial until Nintendo's formal announcement, the company has confirmed backward compatibility with original Switch games and integration with Nintendo Switch Online. A launch within the current fiscal year is unlikely, suggesting an April 2025 release at the earliest. An official announcement is expected in the first quarter of 2024.