Nintendo has announced a delay in pre-orders for its highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 due to the introduction of new global tariffs. The announcement came on April 4, 2025, just days after the company unveiled the console and confirmed its launch date. In a statement, Nintendo said, "Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S. will not start April 9, 2025, in order to assess the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions." Despite this setback, the company reassured fans that the console's launch date of June 5, 2025, remains unchanged.
The delay follows a significant announcement from U.S. President Donald Trump, who implemented a steep 24% tariff on imports from Japan, where Nintendo is based. This tariff raises questions about potential price increases for consumers, as Nintendo must decide whether to absorb the costs or pass them along. The company also has manufacturing ties to Vietnam, which has been affected by a staggering 46% tariff. As Nintendo navigates these challenges, the uncertainty surrounding pricing has left many gamers concerned about the affordability of the new console.
Michael Pachter, managing director of equity research for Wedbush, commented on the situation, stating, "It's just too uncertain. They don't want to tell people $449, when the price is going to be $500, $600 or $700. We don't know." He emphasized the impact these price changes could have on working-class gamers, noting, "If you're making 15, 20 bucks an hour, it's like, 'Oh, Jesus, I got to work for two weeks to get enough take home pay to pay for this thing? That's crazy.'" This sentiment reflects the broader concerns among consumers regarding the affordability of gaming consoles amid rising costs.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is marketed as a significant upgrade from its predecessor, which was released in 2017. This new console features a larger screen, improved graphics, and enhanced audio capabilities, promising a more immersive gaming experience. Nintendo has also introduced exciting new titles, including "Mario Kart World" and "Donkey Kong Bananza," which are expected to be popular among gamers. The Switch 2 will retail at $449.99, with the physical copy of "Mario Kart World" priced at $79.99, although discounts may apply when purchased alongside the console.
While U.S. pre-orders are on hold, Nintendo has confirmed that international pre-orders, including those in the UK, will not be affected. The company is still planning to host "Switch 2 Experience" events in major cities like Los Angeles, New York, London, and Paris throughout April, allowing fans to get a sneak peek at the new console. These events will provide a hands-on opportunity for gamers to experience the Switch 2 before its official launch.
The gaming industry is closely monitoring the situation, as many companies are reevaluating their pricing strategies in response to the new tariffs. Nintendo's decision to delay pre-orders highlights the uncertainty faced by tech and gaming companies in the current trade environment. As the June 5 launch date approaches, gamers are left to wonder how these tariffs will ultimately affect the final pricing of the console and the games associated with it.
In summary, the delay in pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 reflects the broader implications of President Trump's tariffs on international trade. As Nintendo assesses the potential impact on pricing and market conditions, consumers are left in suspense about what to expect when the console finally hits the shelves. With its upgraded features and new game offerings, the Switch 2 is poised to capture the attention of gamers worldwide, but how the tariffs will influence its affordability remains a pressing concern.
