Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders Begin April 24 With Pricing Adjustments
Nintendo has officially announced that pre-orders for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 will commence on April 24, 2025, in the United States. This date marks a shift from the original pre-order schedule set for April 9, a delay attributed to the fluctuating economic environment influenced by U.S. tariffs.
According to Nintendo's website, the pricing for the console will remain stable amidst these changes. The Nintendo Switch 2 will retail at $449.99 for the standalone version and $499.99 for the Switch 2 bundled with the popular game Mario Kart World. Both the physical and digital versions of Mario Kart World will be priced at $79.99, while Donkey Kong Bananza will be available for $69.99.
However, not all pricing remains unchanged. Nintendo has indicated that accessories for the Switch 2 will see adjustments from previously announced prices due to "changes in market conditions." For instance, the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller is now priced at $84.99, up from $79.99, while a pair of Joy-Con 2 controllers will retail for $94.99, an increase from $89.99. The complete list of updated pricing for the accessories includes:
- Nintendo Switch 2 - $449.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle - $499.99
- Mario Kart World - $79.99
- Donkey Kong Bananza - $69.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller - $84.99 (originally $79.99)
- Joy-Con 2 Pair - $94.99 (originally $89.99)
- Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip - $39.99 (originally $34.99)
- Joy-Con 2 Strap - $13.99 (originally $12.99)
- Joy-Con 2 Wheel Set - $24.99 (originally $19.99)
- Nintendo Switch 2 Camera - $54.99 (originally $49.99)
- Nintendo Switch 2 Dock Set - $119.99 (originally $109.99)
- Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector - $39.99 (originally $34.99)
- Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case - $84.99 (originally $79.99)
- Nintendo Switch 2 AC Adapter - $34.99 (originally $29.99)
- Samsung microSD Express Card – 256GB for Nintendo Switch 2 - $59.99
The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025, and is expected to be a significant upgrade from its predecessor, which has seen immense popularity since its release.
In addition to the console's pricing, Nintendo has unveiled details regarding the Upgrade Packs for the Switch 2 in Australia. These packs are designed to enhance existing titles for the new system, offering two tiers of upgrades. The first tier, priced at approximately $20 AUD, includes resolution and framerate updates, mouse control support, and HDR compatibility. The second tier, costing $30 AUD, adds extra content along with the graphical enhancements.
Notably, the Upgrade Pack for Kirby and the Forgotten Land will introduce the Star-Crossed World story expansion, while the Super Mario Party Jamboree will feature the TV Jamboree expansion, which aims to provide additional minigames that utilize the Switch 2's enhanced capabilities.
As for the pricing of the Nintendo Switch 2 Upgrade Packs, the first type, which includes minor improvements, is available for around $20 AUD. The second type, which adds extra content, will cost $30 AUD. This tiered pricing structure allows gamers to choose the level of enhancement they desire for their existing titles.
Despite the excitement surrounding the Switch 2, some fans have expressed disappointment regarding Nintendo's pricing strategy. For instance, the Switch 2 version of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild will not include its previously released DLC, which is an additional cost of $20. As a result, players looking to experience the full game on the new console will need to pay a total of $90, consisting of $70 for the game and $20 for the DLC.
This pricing decision has sparked backlash from fans, who feel that after several years, it is unreasonable to charge for content that was previously available at no extra cost. Comments from the gaming community reflect a mix of frustration and disbelief, with one user noting, "This will be the 3rd generation console it's been released on... And they're charging $90 for it. Complete insanity."
In a broader context, Nintendo's pricing decisions come amid ongoing discussions about the company's market strategy. The company has maintained its prices for both the Switch 2 and Mario Kart World, despite pressures from economic conditions and consumer feedback. Nintendo's firm stance on pricing suggests confidence in the value of their products, even as competitors like Sony and Microsoft offer lower-priced alternatives.
As the launch date for the Nintendo Switch 2 approaches, anticipation continues to build among gamers. With its upgraded features and exclusive titles, many are eager to see how the new console will perform in a competitive market. The gaming community is watching closely, and reactions to the pre-order process and pricing adjustments will likely shape the narrative leading up to the console's release.
For those planning to pre-order, major retailers like Target and Walmart will begin accepting orders at 12:00 a.m. ET on April 24. Gamers can also find pre-order links on various platforms to secure their consoles ahead of the launch.
In summary, Nintendo's upcoming Switch 2 is generating a mix of excitement and skepticism. While the console's pre-order details and pricing remain stable, the company's approach to upgrades and DLC has raised eyebrows among fans. As the gaming landscape evolves, Nintendo's decisions will undoubtedly influence its standing in the industry and among its loyal fanbase.
