Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 were originally scheduled to begin globally on April 9. However, due to economic disruptions caused by Trump's tariffs, Nintendo had to delay pre-orders in the U.S., followed by Canada. Meanwhile, pre-orders proceeded as planned in other regions, including the UK.
According to a FAQ on Nintendo's website, the first invitations for pre-ordering through the My Nintendo Store will start being sent out on May 8, 2025. There is currently no information available regarding retail pre-orders. Nintendo plans to send additional batches of invitation emails periodically until the My Nintendo Store opens pre-orders to the public.
The initial invitations will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible registrants who meet specific priority criteria. These invitees will have 72 hours from the time the email is sent to complete their purchase.
To qualify for a pre-order invitation, you must have:
- Purchased any Nintendo Switch Online membership.
- Maintained any paid Nintendo Switch Online membership for at least 12 months.
- Opted in to share gameplay data and accumulated at least 50 hours of total gameplay.
Nintendo Switch 2 Game Boxes
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There has been no confirmation from Nintendo on whether the previously announced pricing for the Nintendo Switch 2, its games, and accessories will remain unchanged or be adjusted. Some analysts are concerned that the ongoing tariff war might force Nintendo to increase the price of the base Switch 2 beyond $449.99, although no official statement has been made.
Notably, Nintendo is offering a limited-time bundle that includes the Nintendo Switch 2 with Mario Kart World for $499.99, effectively reducing the game's cost by $30.
Nintendo Switch 2 Pricing in the U.S.
- Nintendo Switch 2 by itself: $449.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 with Mario Kart World bundled in: $499.99
- Mario Kart World by itself: $79.99
- Donkey Kong Bananza: $69.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller: $79.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 Camera: $49.99
- Joy-Con 2 Controller pair: $89.99
- Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip: $34.99
- Joy-Con 2 Strap: $12.99
- Joy-Con 2 Wheel pair: $19.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 Dock Set: $109.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case and Screen Protector: $34.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case: $79.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 AC Adapter: $29.99
IGN has covered various reactions to Nintendo's pricing strategy for the Switch 2 generation, including insights from analysts explaining the reasons behind the price increase. Additionally, former Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aimé has commented on the controversy surrounding the pricing of the Switch 2's tutorial game, Welcome Tour, drawing comparisons to the Wii's pack-in game, Wii Sports.
