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Nintendo finally unveils new console the Nintendo Switch

New hardware set for March 2017 release date

Nintendo finally unveils new console the Nintendo Switch

Nintendo has finally unveiled its latest console called the Nintendo Switch.

The Nintendo Switch is a hybrid home console and handheld system.

The hardware, which had previously been codenamed the Nintendo NX, is set for a March 2017 release date.

The Nintendo Switch will used cartrdiges instead of discs, much like it has done for the Nintendo DS and 3DS.

Users can take apart the controller and take out a tablet-like screen - the console itself - from a Switch Dock to play their games on the go. To play their games in the living room, users just need to reinsert the tablet back into the Switch dock and pick up a controller.

As well as the normal controller that comes apart, users can also get a Pro Controller that looks like a more traditional gamepad.

No details have been given on price, specs or a precise release date in March.

Nintendo faces a tough challenge of revitalising console sales after the disappointing reception to the Wii U hardware. While the 3DS has been a success, it's sales are also less than its predecessor, the Nintendo DS.

Nintendo will hope that by combining the home console and handheld to offer something it considers unique will find it a wider audience and bring it back to the top of the console game.

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Craig Chapple is a freelance analyst, consultant and writer with specialist knowledge of the games industry. He has previously served as Senior Editor at PocketGamer.biz, as well as holding roles at Sensor Tower, Nintendo and Develop.