For the last several months, it has been heavily rumored that Nintendo is working on a new Switch model. And it appears we might not have to wait much longer as it is apparently releasing this September…according to Ai Shark (formerly known as GameShark).
Announced in a press release and first spotted by Digital Trends, Ai Shark revealed that it was reviving the GameShark brand and that it was re-launching in September 2024. The release window, according to the company, “is planned to coincide with the Nintendo Switch 2.”
If you do not remember what GameShark is, it was a brand known for making various cheat code devices. Under this rebranding, however, Ai Shark is supposed to be AI-enhanced software that is designed to aid “individuals in improving their gameplay over time.”
Ai Shark notes that this software is not designed to be a cheating tool, but rather, it “focuses on aiding individuals in improving their gameplay over time.” And its target audience is casual gamers, according to the press release.
“Harnessing the power of AI, supercomputers and our exceptional code-writing team, we are aiming to eclipse the original GameShark’s triumphs tenfold and redefine the gaming landscape on a global scale,” said Ai Shark Founder Todd Hays wrote in a press release. “Altec Lansing is our first inaugural peripheral licensing partner, and we will assist them in capturing a significant share of the $2.5B video gaming headset marketplace. This marks the start of a series of AI Gaming technology partnerships that will enhance the gaming ecosystem for players worldwide.”
As for the Nintendo Switch 2, this is technically the first whiff of a release window we’ve seen that’s anywhere close to almost-not-really-official – Nintendo hasn’t even technically revealed the Switch’s successor yet at all. It might be a Switch 2, or it might be something entirely different. We have gathered a number of details about the rumored console, which analysts have been predicting would launch this year, and there were rumors that Nintendo was demoing the console to partners behind closed doors at last year’s Gamescom. We also know that Nintendo briefed Activision on a Switch successor in late 2022.
Nintendo did not immediately respond to IGN’s request for comment.
Update: Both Digital Trends and Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier have now reported receiving statements from Altec Lansing that seem conflictingly to double down on the Fall 2024 date and also claim the date is “guesswork.” What’s likely happening here is that Altec Lansing was, in fact, making an educated guess on the date of the Switch’s release based on internal industry conversations as well as analyst models. Whatever the case, we’ll have to wait for Nintendo’s official word to find out the real date.
Taylor is a Reporter at IGN. You can follow her on Twitter @TayNixster.
Deepak Sen is a tech enthusiast who covers the latest technological innovations, from AI to consumer gadgets. His articles provide readers with a glimpse into the ever-evolving world of technology.
