In a surprising leak that has taken the gaming world by storm, a Nintendo Switch 2 console may have been illegally smuggled out of a manufacturing facility in China, just weeks before its official release.
The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch globally on June 5, 2025, ending an eight-year wait since the original Switch first revolutionized hybrid gaming. With U.S. pre-orders starting April 24, anticipation is sky-high—but for one impatient individual, that wait may have proven too much.
🚨 Leaked Console Appears on BiliBili
A video uploaded to the Chinese social platform BiliBili (watch it here) shows what appears to be a prototype or production model of the Nintendo Switch 2 running quality control software. The menu options visible in the footage include:
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Charge Battery
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Launch Aging Test
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Reboot
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Shutdown
These functions are consistent with software typically used to test devices before final firmware installation.
The footage also shows a person interacting with the device, attaching and detaching Joy-Con controllers, suggesting the hardware is already in a near-complete state.
🔄 Pre-Order Date Pushed Back Amid Tariff Uncertainty
Nintendo initially planned to open pre-orders on April 9, but rescheduled to April 24 due to uncertainties caused by newly imposed tariffs from the Trump administration. The company reportedly needed extra time to assess how these tariffs would affect pricing and availability.
❓ Is the Leak Real?
As of now, Nintendo has not issued an official statement regarding the video or the alleged theft. However, the leak appears credible to many observers in the gaming community, aligning with prior rumors about the console’s specs and design.
The situation raises major concerns over supply chain security, especially as launch day nears. If the leak is legitimate, it may pressure Nintendo to take legal action or accelerate its marketing plans.
📈 What’s Next for Nintendo Fans?
The leak has only amplified interest in the Switch 2, with fans now even more eager to get their hands on the console. Whether Nintendo addresses the incident or continues with its current launch timeline remains to be seen. In the meantime, gamers are closely watching for any updates or confirmations from Nintendo HQ—and perhaps a few more unofficial sneak peeks.