Nintendo reportedly will launch two new Switch models in 2019

Published , by Ozzie Mejia

With a little over two years on the market, Nintendo's Switch console has done very well for itself. Sales have exceeded expectations and it's been well-received by both players and critics. But now the trick is keeping that momentum going. The publisher will reportedly attempt to do so by bringing out a couple of new Switch models.

According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, two new Switch models are currently in the works. One will act as an enhanced version of the model that's currently available. Think of it as Nintendo's version of the Xbox One X or PlayStation 4 Pro, with "enhanced" features that are being aimed at more "avid gamers." However, WSJ's source notes that it won't be delivered in exactly the same fashion as those upgraded consoles.

"You would be wrong to think the enhanced version is similar to what Sony did with PS4 Pro," the source told WSJ.

The second system is said to be aimed at the more budget-minded user. With no specifications on design or dimensions, the source only indicates that the second model will be a lower-cost option that's meant to act as a full successor for the Nintendo 3DS. This one is being aimed at a more casual audience and is rumored to be cutting certain features, like controller vibration, to help keep the final MSRP lower. This is in line with rumors that surfaced back in January about a smaller Nintendo Switch that would scrap features to "expand the userbase."

There's no word on price for either of these rumored Switch models. However, WSJ's report states that Nintendo is aiming to reveal this latest line of Switch hardware at this year's E3, with plans to release later in 2019. Nintendo has yet to comment on these rumors, but if they do, come back to Shacknews for more information. For now, stay tuned.