Summary
Nintendo has released a new system update for theNintendo Switch, Switch Lite, and OLED consoles, prioritizing improved system stability. The last patch for theNintendo Switchfamily arrived back in June 2024 with Version 18.1.0, which added the ability to post screenshots on Twitter and Smash World through Nintendo Switch Home. In total, four updates have been released for the consoles this year.
The Switch consoles are still going strong with new releases, likeThe Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, the upcomingStrayport, and the imminent debut of indie gamesNevaandEuropa. Not only areEchoes of Wisdomsales off to a strong start, but the princess-led adventure has also become a significant entry in theZeldafranchise thanks to its new perspective, theLink’s Awakening-inspired graphics, and its continuation of the sprawling open-world format.
Posted on Nintendo’s official website, the patch notes for Version 19.0.0 were short and sweet this time: “General system stability improvements to enhance the user’s experience.” This is a common improvement included in most Switch updates, but popular dataminer OatmealDome dug a bit deeper into the details. The dataminer seemingly confirmed “every system component was updated” and explained that this was “normal for major updates, as the entire OS is rebuilt with a newer SDK version.” Considering the looming Switch 2 announcement, several Nintendo fans were surprised to see more system updates roll out for the current consoles, joining apatent filed for Nintendo Switch dock improvementsearlier in the year.
Nintendo’s Patch 19.0.0 for Switch Consoles Only Offers Stability Improvements
Most Nintendo users have the impending Switch 2 announcement firmly in their crosshairs, and a few Redditors were comically convinced the successor console would only be Version 20.0.0 for the regular Switch. Apotential Switch 2 design leaked onlinerecently, prompting discussions about its larger size, and more users in the Nintendo subreddit questioned if dataminers had found anything related to the Switch 2 within the recent patch. However, OatmealDome weighed in on this matter, saying the 19.0.0 update was linked to new Switch dev kit releases for game developers, instead of anything directly tied to the Switch 2.
Fans have guessed a possible reveal date for the Switch 2, convinced that the arrival was encoded within aMario & Luigi: Brothershiptweet, and guesses concerning the console’s launch title are already well underway, including a newSuper Smash Bros.game or the rumored port ofFinal Fantasy 7 Remake. However, before the Switch 2 arrives on the market, fans have several 2025 games to look forward to on current Switch consoles, such asDonkey Kong Country Returns HD,Guilty Gear Strive, andCivilization 7.
Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Switch is a hybrid portable and home console that aims to be the only gaming system anyone needs. The hybrid controller is an undisputed success because it provides a high degree of portable visual quality and converts easily into a home console.
