Pre-orders for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 went live around the world on April 9, 2025, with one notable exception: fans in the United States. Nintendo's latest console, which is set to release on June 5, features an open-world Mario Kart game titled Mario Kart World among other first-party titles. The original Nintendo Switch, released in 2017, has become one of the best-selling video game consoles of all time, and the upcoming Switch 2 promises upgraded hardware, better graphics, and even more beloved Nintendo games.
However, just days after the announcement, Nintendo revealed that it would delay pre-orders for the Switch 2 in the U.S. due to "evolving market conditions." In a statement provided to IGN, Nintendo explained that pre-orders in the U.S. would not start on April 9, 2025, in order to assess the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions. The launch date of June 5, 2025, remains unchanged.
Since the beginning of April, President Donald Trump's latest tariff announcement has created significant ripples across the U.S. economy and the global market. The price point for the Switch 2 was set at $449.99, which is higher than the original Switch's $299.99. Additionally, the new Mario Kart World game is priced at $79.99, a $10 increase from modern new game releases.
As a result of the tariff implications, Nintendo has also confirmed that pre-orders in Canada will be delayed, aligning with the timing of pre-orders to be determined in the U.S. Nintendo of Canada stated, "Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 in Canada will not start on April 9, 2025, in order to align with the timing of pre-orders to be determined in the U.S." The company will provide updated information at a later date.
Reports suggest that the tariffs will not impact the Switch 2's $449.99 price in North America, but uncertainty remains. The Switch 2 is primarily manufactured in Vietnam and Cambodia, where tariffs could be as high as 46% and 49%, respectively. Historically, companies rarely absorb the costs of tariffs, which often results in price increases for consumers.
Despite these challenges, demand for the Switch 2 appears strong. Pre-orders for the console and the Mario Kart World bundle sold out quickly in the U.K. after they opened on April 8, 2025. Retailers like EE, GAME, and Smyths experienced swift sell-outs and scalpers have already begun listing pre-orders on eBay for prices significantly above retail.
As for the U.S. market, pre-orders were originally set to open on April 9, but the implementation of the new tariffs led to indefinite delays. Nintendo has not yet announced when U.S. pre-orders will begin or whether the price will change, but several retailers have confirmed they will offer pre-orders as soon as they become available.
In the meantime, Switch 2 pre-orders are still live in other global markets, such as the U.K., where stock is expected to return. As of now, the standalone console is priced at $450, with the Mario Kart World bundle priced at $500. The console is scheduled to begin shipping on June 5, 2025.
As excitement builds around the new console, some gamers have expressed mixed feelings. Although the Switch 2 offers significant upgrades over its predecessor, including a larger screen, improved Joy-Cons, and boosted storage, many are questioning whether the enhancements justify the price increase. CNET gaming expert Scott Stein described the console as "feeling a lot like an updated version of a system many people already own."
Moreover, the confusion surrounding pre-order availability has left many gamers wondering if it might be wiser to wait a year or two for a refurbished console at a lower price. As the gaming community waits for updates, the anticipation for the Switch 2 remains palpable.
In terms of accessories, pre-orders for Switch 2 controllers, cases, and other peripherals will begin at the same time as console pre-orders. The new console will feature a sleek, monochrome design, with the Joy-Con 2 controllers incorporating new functionalities such as a C button, mouse controls, and built-in gyroscopes for tilt control. The console will also have a built-in mic to support a new feature called Game Chat, enabling players to communicate with friends during gameplay.
The Switch 2 boasts a 7.9-inch LCD screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, HDR, and 1080p resolution, and when docked, it can output up to 4K on a TV. Additionally, the console's storage has increased to 256GB, which can be expanded using newer microSD Express cards.
As the situation develops, gamers are encouraged to stay tuned for updates on pre-order availability and pricing. The gaming landscape is ever-changing, and with the introduction of the Switch 2, Nintendo hopes to capture the hearts of both new and returning players alike.
In conclusion, while U.S. gamers face uncertainty regarding pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2, the global response has been overwhelmingly positive. As the launch date approaches, many are eager to see how the new console will reshape their gaming experience.
