On April 23, 2025, the Pokemon Center Online announced that it would begin accepting lottery applications for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, which is set to be released on June 5, 2025. The lottery application period is scheduled to open at 3:00 PM on April 24, 2025, and will remain open until 1:59 PM on May 1, 2025. This announcement has generated significant excitement among Nintendo fans, especially considering that approximately 2.2 million applications were received in Japan alone, a number that far exceeds initial expectations.
The Nintendo Switch 2 will be available exclusively in Japanese language and domestic versions, priced at ¥49,980, with free shipping included. However, prospective buyers must meet certain conditions to qualify for the lottery. These include having played Nintendo Switch software for over 50 hours and maintaining Nintendo Switch Online membership for at least one year. This stringent application process has drawn mixed reactions from fans, with many praising the measures aimed at preventing reselling and ensuring that genuine gamers have a fair chance to purchase the console.
Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa took to the company’s X (formerly Twitter) account to share the news and express his gratitude for the overwhelming interest. He noted that the high number of applications indicates a strong demand, but also warned that many applicants would not be selected in the upcoming lottery drawing. "A considerable number of customers will not be selected in the April 24 announcement," he stated, highlighting the reality of limited supply versus high demand.
Fans have responded to the announcement with a mix of enthusiasm and skepticism. Many expressed amazement at the sheer volume of applications, given the strict criteria. Comments flooded social media, with one user exclaiming, "Wow, 2.2 million applicants despite those tough conditions!" Others appreciated the transparency in revealing the number of applications, indicating a desire for openness from the company.
Additionally, some fans have voiced concerns regarding Nintendo's supply chain and production capabilities. Critiques emerged suggesting that the company should have prepared a larger stock to meet the anticipated demand. "They should have made around 2.2 million units available," one critic remarked, reflecting a common sentiment among disappointed fans who fear they may miss out on the new console.
Furukawa assured fans that Nintendo is committed to meeting demand and that additional reservations or lottery sales would be available through various game retailers and online shops across the country. He mentioned, "We plan to produce and ship a considerable number of units in the future," which has provided some reassurance to hopeful customers.
For those who do not win in the first lottery, there is a silver lining. The My Nintendo Store has announced that applicants who are not selected will be automatically entered into a second lottery sale. This initiative has been welcomed by fans eager for a chance to secure the new console without resorting to inflated prices from resellers.
As the lottery application period approaches, the Pokemon Center Online has advised potential applicants to apply well in advance, as access is expected to be heavily congested as the deadline approaches. The lottery results are scheduled to be announced after 5:00 PM on May 20, 2025, with the order and payment period for successful applicants set from 5:00 PM on May 20 to 4:59 PM on May 26, 2025.
Overall, the announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 lottery sale has stirred a wave of excitement and anticipation among fans. While the competition for the console is fierce, the measures put in place to ensure fair access have been largely appreciated. As Nintendo gears up for the release, many fans are left hoping that they will be among those fortunate enough to secure the new console and enjoy what it has to offer.
