‘I Am 100% Sure They Are Really Mad, to the Most Severe Level’ — Ex-Nintendo PR Managers React to Switch 2 Leaks

Former Nintendo of America employees shed light on the impact of recent Switch 2 leaks, highlighting significant internal disruption and the compromised element of surprise for fans. Leaks have revealed potential release dates, upcoming games, and even device mockups, including images of the motherboard and Joy-Cons. Nintendo has officially dismissed these as "unofficial."

In a YouTube video, ex-Nintendo PR managers Kit Ellis and Krysta Yang, leveraging their combined decade-plus of experience, discussed the internal fallout. Yang described intense internal frustration, referencing the infamous "hot exclamation mark emails" indicative of high-level concern. The leaks created a highly stressful environment, diverting staff from launch preparations and creating a chaotic, high-pressure atmosphere. Ellis confirmed that Nintendo's internal investigations are underway and will ultimately uncover the source.

Genki Nintendo Switch Mockup Images from CES 2025

The leaks have undeniably diminished the element of surprise surrounding the official announcement, impacting fan anticipation. Both Ellis and Yang emphatically denied any internal involvement in the leaks, emphasizing Nintendo's commitment to surprise and the extensive internal training on this principle.

The extensive leaks will likely prompt a reassessment of Nintendo's product security protocols, especially given the eight-year gap since the original Switch launch in March 2017. Their established processes for hardware reveals may require refinement.

What rumored Switch 2 feature are you most excited for?

4K upscalingLarger screenOptical sensor on JoyconMysterious "C" buttonFaster SD cardsMagnetic locking Joycon

While all information remains unofficial until Nintendo's formal announcement (expected in Q1 2024), backward compatibility with original Switch games and Nintendo Switch Online integration have been confirmed. A launch within the current fiscal year is unlikely, suggesting an April 2025 release at the earliest.