Nintendo has officially announced that pre-orders for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 will begin on April 24, 2025, marking a significant moment for fans eager to get their hands on the next-generation console. This announcement comes after a delay caused by tariffs that affected the original pre-order date of April 9, 2025.
Target has confirmed that its pre-orders will go live at 12am ET on April 24, allowing customers across the U.S. to secure their consoles and accessories. Alongside the standard Switch 2 console priced at $449.99, Target will also offer the Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World bundle for $499.99. Both options are expected to be in high demand, and supplies may be limited.
In addition to the console, gamers will have the opportunity to pre-order popular launch titles such as Mario Kart World, which will retail for $79.99, and Donkey Kong Bananza, priced at $69.99. Accessories will also be available for pre-order, including extra Joy-Cons, the Switch 2 Pro Controller, and the Switch 2 Camera. However, it's important to note that prices for accessories may have increased due to market conditions.
“We apologize for the retail pre-order delay and hope this reduces some of the uncertainty our consumers may be experiencing,” stated Nintendo in a press release. Customers are encouraged to create Target accounts ahead of time to facilitate a smoother pre-order process, as server issues during high-traffic periods are common with console launches.
For those in Canada, pre-orders for the Switch 2 will also commence on April 24, with prices set at $629.99 for the standard model and $699.99 for the Mario Kart World bundle. Nintendo reiterated its commitment to maintaining the announced pricing structure despite the earlier delays.
The excitement surrounding the Switch 2 is palpable, especially as the launch date of June 5, 2025, approaches. Nintendo has expressed gratitude for the patience shown by its customers during the pre-order delays. The company aims to ensure that fans can experience the new console without further disruptions.
In the lead-up to the launch, Nintendo has been actively promoting the Switch 2's enhanced features. The console boasts a larger screen, measuring 7.9 inches compared to the original Switch's 6.2 inches, and supports HDR content and a 120Hz refresh rate, providing a more immersive gaming experience. These upgrades have garnered attention from both avid gamers and newcomers alike.
One enthusiastic user, reflecting on their hands-on experience with the Switch 2, shared, "Spending three hours at the Nintendo Switch 2 Experience convinced me that the Switch 2 could be a console I regularly use." This sentiment highlights the console's appeal, not just to hardcore gamers but also to those who may be new to gaming.
As the pre-order date approaches, many are eager to secure their consoles and enjoy the enhanced graphics and gameplay that the Switch 2 promises. The anticipation is particularly strong for titles like Mario Kart World, which is expected to leverage the console's capabilities fully, offering stunning visuals and engaging gameplay.
With pre-orders opening at midnight, fans are advised to act quickly. Retailers such as Amazon, GameStop, and Walmart are also expected to launch their pre-order systems simultaneously, creating a competitive environment for consumers looking to secure their devices.
Nintendo's decision to maintain the pricing structure for the Switch 2 has been met with relief by many, as the gaming community had speculated about potential price hikes due to the recent tariff issues. The company’s commitment to keeping prices stable reflects its understanding of the market and the importance of customer satisfaction.
In conclusion, the upcoming launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 is set to be a landmark event in the gaming world. With pre-orders commencing on April 24, 2025, and the official launch date scheduled for June 5, excitement is building as fans prepare to embark on a new gaming journey. Nintendo's ability to adapt to market challenges while delivering a compelling product is sure to resonate with gamers around the globe.
