Nintendo Switch 2 Leak Sparks Outrage: Ex-PR Managers React

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 purported release dates, upcoming games, device mockups, and even motherboard and Joy-Con images, prompting widespread speculation. Nintendo has officially labeled 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 negative reaction within Nintendo, describing the likely internal communications as "very, very, very upset." They detailed the stressful investigative processes impacting staff, creating a "highly chaotic situation" and diverting focus from the console's launch preparations. Ellis, however, expressed confidence in Nintendo's investigative capabilities, stating they will ultimately uncover the source of the leaks.

Genki Nintendo Switch Mockup Images from CES 2025

The leaks have undeniably diminished the element of surprise surrounding the official announcement, impacting fan anticipation. Both Ellis and Yang dismissed speculation of internal leaks, asserting that Nintendo did not intentionally release this information. Ellis recounted mandatory training sessions emphasizing the importance of surprise, reinforcing the unlikelihood of deliberate leaks from within the company.

The extensive leaks will likely prompt a reassessment of Nintendo's product security protocols, particularly given the eight-year gap since the original Switch's launch in March 2017. This significant timeframe may necessitate improvements in their hardware reveal processes.

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 pending an official announcement (expected in Q1 2024, according to Nintendo), confirmed details include backward compatibility with original Switch games and integration with Nintendo Switch Online. A launch during the current fiscal year is unlikely, suggesting an April 2025 release at the earliest.