Nintendo has officially announced its next console, the Nintendo Switch 2, which is set to release in 2025. It promises exciting new features, exclusive games, and the ability to play most existing Nintendo Switch titles. But for some gamers, including myself, the big question isn’t just about what the system can do — it’s whether piracy will be as easy as it was with the original Switch.
The first Nintendo Switch wasn’t just a hit because of its innovative design and amazing games — it also became well-known for how simple it was to hack. Many users quickly found ways to unlock their consoles, allowing them to run homebrew software, emulators, and yes, pirated games. This opened up a whole new world for those who didn’t want to pay for expensive titles. For many, that made the Switch an even more appealing purchase.
Now that the Switch 2 has been revealed, some of us are taking a wait-and-see approach. Why rush to buy when history suggests it’s only a matter of time before hacking tools emerge for this new system? It’s no secret that Nintendo works hard to combat piracy, frequently releasing patches and updates to block exploits. But if the Switch is anything to go by, hackers will likely find a way around these defenses eventually.
Until that happens, there’s no urgency to invest in the Switch 2. The games might look great, and the system itself could be impressive, but paying full price for games when free options might become available down the line doesn’t seem necessary. Patience often pays off in this regard, and for those of us in the know, it’s worth holding off for now.
Nintendo has announced hands-on events and an April 2 “Nintendo Direct” to drum up excitement for the console, but it’s the hacking community I’ll be watching most closely. The original Switch became a favorite for those who valued customization and free gaming, and there’s little doubt that the Switch 2 will eventually follow the same path. For now, though, waiting is the name of the game.
