Two former Nintendo of America employees, Kit Ellis and Krysta Yang, have shed light on the internal turmoil caused by the recent Switch 2 leaks. These leaks, which have included details about the console's alleged reveal date, upcoming games, and even mockups of the device, have stirred significant disruption within the company. Images of the Switch 2's motherboard and Joy-Con have surfaced online, fueling fan speculation despite Nintendo labeling them as "unofficial."

In a video on their YouTube channel, Ellis and Yang, both former PR managers with over a decade of experience at Nintendo, discussed the severe impact these leaks are likely having. Yang expressed certainty that the company is extremely upset, highlighting the intense frustration conveyed through internal communications. "I am 100% sure that they are really mad, to the most severe level," Yang stated, emphasizing the chaotic atmosphere within the company as staff juggle leak investigations alongside their regular duties. "It's a highly chaotic situation in there right now and a real pressure cooker," she added.

Ellis acknowledged Nintendo's competent investigative team, expressing confidence that they would uncover the source of the leaks. Both former employees stressed the disruptive nature of these leaks, particularly at a critical time close to the Switch 2's alleged reveal. They noted that the leaks could dampen the excitement around the official announcement, affecting how fans perceive the new console.

Genki Nintendo Switch Mockup Images from CES 2025

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Yang and Ellis firmly dismissed speculations that Nintendo might be orchestrating these leaks, underscoring the company's emphasis on the "value of surprise." "Nintendo did not do this on purpose," Ellis asserted, recalling mandatory lectures on the importance of keeping surprises intact. The leaks, they believe, are severely hampering Nintendo's efforts to successfully announce and launch the new console.

In response to these breaches, Ellis suggested that Nintendo would likely reassess its product security measures. Given that it has been eight years since the original Switch's release, the company's processes for hardware reveals may need updating.

While no official details have been released about the Switch 2, Nintendo has confirmed that the upcoming console will be backward-compatible with original Switch games and will support Nintendo Switch Online. The console is not expected to launch during Nintendo's current financial year, indicating a release date no earlier than April 2025.