Bic Camera, a prominent home electronics retailer in Japan, is preparing to launch the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 with a lottery sale scheduled to begin on April 24, 2025. The release of this new gaming console is set for June 5, 2025, and Bic Camera has detailed the application requirements for interested customers.
The lottery will occur in two phases. The first round of applications will be accepted from April 24 to April 27, 2025, while the second round will run from May 22 to May 25, 2025. Each lottery will have specific requirements that applicants must meet to be eligible for a chance to purchase the console.
For the first lottery, customers must hold a Bic Camera credit card—temporary cards are not accepted. They must also present a valid photo ID for identity verification during the application process. Additionally, applicants need to have a purchase history of over 30,000 yen (approximately $275) from April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2025. This requirement aims to ensure that only loyal customers are considered for the lottery.
Eligible products for the first lottery include the Nintendo Switch 2 console, priced at 49,980 yen (tax included), and the Nintendo Switch 2 Mario Kart World Set, which retails for 53,980 yen (tax included). The winners of this lottery will be announced on May 5, 2025, both in-store and via the official X accounts of participating Bic Camera locations.
Once selected, winners will have a limited window from May 8 to May 12, 2025, to complete their purchase at the store where they entered the lottery. Notably, those who win the first lottery will also have the opportunity to reserve genuine accessories at the time of payment, adding further incentive for participation.
In contrast, the second lottery features slightly relaxed requirements. Applicants must register with the Bic Camera official app and have a purchase history of at least 5,000 yen (around $45) during the same period. This round does not allow for the reservation of accessories, focusing solely on the console itself.
It is important for all applicants to note that they can only submit one application per store and per model. Those who attempt to enter multiple stores or submit applications for different models will be disqualified from the lottery. Furthermore, Bic Camera has indicated that applications identified as being for resale purposes, or from customers with a history of purchasing large quantities of popular products, may also be deemed invalid.
As the anticipation builds for the Nintendo Switch 2, Bic Camera is not the only retailer participating in this launch. Ito-Yokado has also announced plans for lottery applications, which will run from April 24 to April 28, 2025. Their requirements include registration with the 7iD system and setting up a phone number for two-factor authentication, making their process somewhat more accessible.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is expected to be a significant upgrade from its predecessor, appealing to both dedicated gamers and casual players alike. With the gaming industry continuing to evolve, the Switch 2 is anticipated to incorporate enhanced graphics and new features that will elevate the gaming experience.
As the launch date approaches, both Bic Camera and Ito-Yokado are ensuring that customers are well-informed about the lottery process. They encourage potential buyers to check their official websites and social media accounts for the latest updates and detailed instructions on how to participate in the lottery.
In summary, Bic Camera's lottery for the Nintendo Switch 2 is set to begin on April 24, 2025, with a structured application process aimed at rewarding loyal customers. With the upcoming release generating significant buzz, both retailers are poised to meet the high demand for this new gaming console.
