As the clock ticks down to midnight, gamers across the United States are gearing up for what promises to be a chaotic launch of pre-orders for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2. With major retailers like Best Buy, Target, and Walmart set to begin accepting pre-orders on April 24, 2025, the excitement is palpable, but so is the anxiety over securing a unit amid high demand and limited supply.
Nintendo has already confirmed that it received an overwhelming 2.2 million pre-order requests in Japan alone, a clear indication of the Switch 2's popularity. Unfortunately, this means that the chances of every eager gamer getting their hands on a console at launch are slim. As many fear, "Will everyone who actually goes to pre-order one at midnight tonight actually get one? Almost certainly not." This sentiment reflects the reality many anticipate as the clock strikes twelve.
For those looking to pre-order the Switch 2, the major retailers will kick off their sales at midnight ET. Walmart, Best Buy, and Target are all set to go live at this time, with GameStop following suit later in the morning at 11 a.m. ET. It’s crucial for gamers to be prepared, as the demand is expected to outstrip supply significantly.
To maximize their chances, shoppers are advised to create accounts on the respective retailer websites ahead of time, ensuring that payment and shipping details are already filled out. As one seasoned gamer noted, this strategy helped them secure a PS5 in the past. The urgency is real, and every second counts.
Walmart is particularly user-friendly in its approach, promising delivery of the console by 9 a.m. on launch day, June 5, for those who secure their pre-orders before June 4. This means that if all goes according to plan, gamers can enjoy their new console right on launch day without delay. Target's process mirrors Walmart's, allowing pre-orders to start at midnight, but with less clarity on delivery promises.
GameStop, however, has a slightly different plan. Pre-orders will be available in-store as soon as each location opens, but online orders will only begin at 11 a.m. ET. This staggered approach means that those who might strike out at other retailers should set reminders to try their luck again later in the morning.
As for Amazon, the situation is less straightforward. While it may not be an official Nintendo retailer, shoppers can still find some Switch 2 titles available for pre-order. However, any consoles listed are likely through third-party sellers, raising questions about their legitimacy. Therefore, caution is advised when considering Amazon as a pre-order option.
For those who miss out on the midnight rush, there are other avenues to explore. Retailers like Costco, Newegg, Kohl’s, Sam’s Club, ABT Electronics, and Dell may also offer pre-orders, although specific timings remain uncertain. Reports indicate that Switch 2 and Switch 2 Mario Kart World bundle listings are already available at Sam’s Club and Newegg, suggesting that these retailers may play a crucial role in fulfilling demand.
In a unique twist, Nintendo itself will begin offering pre-orders on May 8, 2025, but with some stringent requirements. Only members of the Nintendo Switch Online service who have paid for at least 12 months and logged 50 hours of gameplay will receive invitation links to pre-order. This means that true fans who have invested time in the Switch ecosystem will have the first opportunity to secure a unit.
As the pre-order date approaches, the gaming community is buzzing with anticipation and a bit of trepidation. With the potential for scalpers and bots to snatch up units before genuine fans can even click through, many are left wondering how they can best navigate this high-stakes environment.
For those determined to get their hands on a Switch 2, it’s essential to stay informed and ready. Following retailers on social media and keeping an eye on stock updates can be beneficial. As one article noted, "We will be tracking these listings constantly over the next 24 hours and beyond and updating our X feed every time they come back in-stock." This kind of vigilance could make all the difference.
In terms of pricing, gamers can expect to pay between $50 and $80 for various Switch 2 game titles, including "Donkey Kong Bananza" at $69 and "Mario Kart World" at $79. These prices reflect the premium nature of the new console and its games, as Nintendo aims to deliver an upgraded gaming experience.
Ultimately, the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders is shaping up to be a significant event in the gaming world. With millions of fans eager to secure their consoles, the competition will be fierce. Whether through traditional retailers or alternative online sources, every gamer will need to have their strategy in place to stand a chance at claiming one of these coveted devices.
As the countdown continues, it’s clear that the excitement surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2 is only just beginning. With the promise of new games and enhanced features, fans are ready to dive into the next generation of gaming. The question remains: who will be lucky enough to secure their pre-order and be among the first to experience the next chapter in Nintendo’s storied legacy?
