Sources: Nintendo plans to release a new console in H2 2024, with a portable mode, LCD display, and a cartridge slot; key partners already have development kits
Development kits for Nintendo's next console are now with key partner studios, with launch planned for next year, sources have told VGC.
Video Games ChronicleAndy Robinson
Context & Ripple Effects
The report extends the hardware formula described in earlier coverage of Nintendo's portable, cartridge-based NX design, suggesting continuity in the company’s hybrid-console approach rather than a wholesale format break.
It also established an early launch-window expectation that later coverage would echo with a reported 2024 Switch successor and 8-inch LCD panel before reports of a subsequent schedule change. The meaningful signal here is that development kits were reportedly already reaching selected studios, tying hardware planning to software preparation.
First-order effects
Key partner studios can reportedly begin bringing games to the new hardware, while Nintendo gains earlier feedback on development tools and launch software readiness.
A portable mode, LCD display, and cartridge slot would preserve familiar development and retail assumptions for Nintendo’s existing ecosystem, if the reported specifications prove accurate.
Second-order effects
Publishers with development-kit access gain a head start on launch-window planning; studios without access must wait for Nintendo’s platform rollout and toolchain availability.
A cartridge-based design keeps physical-game distribution relevant to the transition, while an LCD choice sets expectations for component and display suppliers rather than positioning the device around a premium-panel upgrade.
Third-order effects
If Nintendo continues to pair a new platform with a familiar hybrid and physical-media model, its next cycle is likely to prioritize ecosystem continuity over changing the basic console proposition.
The later reported shift from a late-2024 launch toward Q1 2025 underscores a structural constraint of platform transitions: hardware timing is closely bound to the readiness of Nintendo’s own software lineup.
The trend: Nintendo’s next-platform planning is one data point in the continued evolution of hybrid consoles through iterative hardware changes while preserving established developer, retail, and player habits.
Development kits for Nintendo's Next-Gen console have begun to be given to the game studios. — The company is target to release new hardware during the second half of 2024. — https://www.videogameschronicle.com/ ... [image]
Finally, an actual logical sounding report amidst all the rumors and “leaks” lol. If accurate, going back to LCD is a bit of a bummer but I get it. Might just be a new cycle for Nintendo where an OLED model drops later.
I think we're finally getting legitimate information on whatever is next as opposed to YouTube channels that have been talking about every leaker's bowel movements over the last two years.
Makes sense at this point LOL. Next year the console would be 7 years olds 😭. Genuinely all I want is for 1st party games to all run at 60 & maybe cuz it's Nintendo some weirdass feature like always. WHAT Y'ALL THINK? [image]
It's kind of wild how the Nintendo Wii U failed so hard that it kind of forever threw off the console generations thing. This console will launch FOUR YEARS into the PS5/XSX generation, be comparably underpowered, and probably still be a huge success.
VGC Report on Nintendo “Next-Gen” console • Development kits are now with key partners • Targeting a second half of 2024 launch • Can be used in portable mode like current Switch • Whether there is Backwards compatibility support or not is unclear https://www.videogameschronicle.…
Fucking ghoulish to not want the next Nintendo console to have backwards compatibility because of “next-gen titles” sales when the Switch has an incredible library and STILL has games releasing for it in 2024 and maybe beyond. [image]