The release window for the new Switch OLED model and further information has been leaked

According to a well-known industry insider, a new Nintendo Switch OLED model with a Mario theme is imminent. In addition to the name and release timeframe, further details have also been unveiled. Nintendo had previously released a Mario-themed Switch bundle in March, but it only included the standard edition of the console.

Since its introduction in late 2021, the most expensive variant of Nintendo's hybrid console has been adorned with three different editions. The first such Switch OLED special edition was based on Splatoon 3, followed by models themed around Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, as well as The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.

According to industry insider Billbil-kun, the fourth variant of the console will feature a Mario theme and will be marketed as the Nintendo Switch OLED model - Mario Red Edition. The handheld device is rumored to come with red Joy-Cons in the classic neon red color, along with a matching docking station. It may also have red accents on certain prominent elements such as the volume control buttons, as mentioned by the same source. Reports suggest that Nintendo plans to release the new Switch OLED model "before October." As August comes to a close, September 2023 remains the most likely timeframe for its release.

The actual unveiling could even take place earlier, not least because a Nintendo Direct is scheduled for August 31st. The Japanese gaming giant has announced that the upcoming broadcast will focus on Super Mario Bros. Wonder, making a concurrent announcement for a new Switch model quite plausible. The speculated release window in September also aligns with Nintendo's previous approach to special editions of the Switch OLED model, which typically arrived on the market about a month before their corresponding games. To clarify, Super Mario Bros. Wonder is set to be released on October 20th.

As for the prices, Billbil-kun reports that the Mario Red Edition of the console will be available in Europe for €349.99. This corresponds to the price of the regular OLED model and should amount to $349.99 in the United States. The new variant of the console is expected to be available internationally, as has been the case with all previous special editions of the Switch OLED.

As for the credibility of this leak, Billbil-kun has an extremely consistent track record when it comes to hardware and video game leaks, suggesting that this new Switch model is indeed on the horizon. The rumor states that the device will debut as the third Mario-themed Switch offering of 2023. Apart from the aforementioned bundle that includes the standard variant of the console, Nintendo has also released a similar package featuring a white Switch OLED model with Mario accessories as part of its latest Mar10 Day celebrations.

Source: Dealabs