Nintendo is ready to start showing developers Switch 2 hardware, and it's using a modified version of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild to demonstrate what the new console can do.

As Eurogamer reports, during Gamescom last month in Cologne, Nintendo held meetings with game developers and publishers behind closed doors. Prototype Switch 2 hardware was used to run Breath of the Wild (we already knew how good the game can look thanks to PC emulation) as well as a number of tech demos.

No details have been shared as to how capable the new hybrid console is, but the meetings are a clear sign that Nintendo is preparing for a launch. We're not expecting the Switch 2 to launch this year, but earlier rather than later in 2024 seems likely now. For reference, the Switch launched on March 3 in 2017, which was a Friday. The equivalent in 2024 would either be March 1 or March 8.

Nintendo certainly isn't done with the original Switch just yet, and is hoping to keep sales strong for the rest of the year. Alongside the limited-edition Mario Red version of the console, we have Super Mario Bros. Wonder, Luigi's Mansion 2, and a new Princess Peach game to look forward to.

Anyone currently enjoying The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom may be disappointed to discover Nintendo isn't releasing any DLC for the game. However, a new Zelda game is planned and clearly that will be released for the Switch 2. Perhaps we'll also get a re-release/upgrade for Breath of the Wild on the new console.