Nintendo has officially announced that reservations for its highly anticipated next-generation console, the Nintendo Switch 2 (Switch2), will begin on April 24, 2025. Scheduled for release on June 5, 2025, the Switch2 will be available in three different models, catering to various consumer preferences and budgets.
The standard model, designed for domestic use and available only in Japanese, will retail for 49,980 yen. A special Mario Kart World set, also in Japanese, will be priced at 53,980 yen. For those seeking a more versatile option, a multilingual model will be offered at 69,980 yen, although this version will only be available through the My Nintendo Store.
As anticipation builds for the Switch2, retailers across Japan are gearing up to facilitate the reservation process. Major game stores and online platforms will sequentially start accepting reservations or lottery applications, with the My Nintendo Store already conducting a lottery sale. Consumers are advised to check with their preferred retailers for specific details on how to reserve or enter the lottery.
Notably, the reservation process is set to be competitive, with many stores implementing specific conditions for applicants. For instance, Bic Camera will begin its lottery from April 24 to April 27, 2025, and again from May 22 to May 25, 2025. To qualify for the first lottery, customers must hold a Bic Camera credit card, present a photo ID, and have a purchase history of 30,000 yen or more from April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2025. The second lottery will have slightly different conditions, requiring participants to register for the Bic Camera official app and have a purchase history of at least 5,000 yen during the same timeframe.
Other retailers, such as Edion, Sofmap, and Yamada Denki, are also joining the fray with their own lottery systems. Edion's lottery will run from April 24 to May 11, 2025, and is open to members with specific card types and purchase histories. Sofmap's lottery will take place from April 24 to April 27, 2025, exclusively for Premium CLUB members.
The excitement surrounding the Switch2 is palpable, especially with the introduction of the Mario Kart World set, which is expected to attract both new and returning players. As consumers prepare to enter the lottery or make reservations, they should be aware that multiple applications from the same address will be excluded to prevent scalping and ensure fair access for all interested buyers.
As the launch date approaches, Nintendo fans are encouraged to stay informed about the latest updates from retailers regarding the reservation process. Many stores are expected to announce lottery details and conditions through their websites and social media channels, making it essential for consumers to keep an eye on these platforms.
In addition to the aforementioned stores, a variety of other retailers such as GEO, TSUTAYA, and Joshin Web will also offer lottery opportunities starting on April 24. Each store has its unique set of conditions, so potential buyers should carefully review the requirements to maximize their chances of securing a Switch2.
For instance, TSUTAYA will hold a lottery from April 24 to April 30, 2025, via its app, while GEO will conduct its lottery through its app from April 24 to May 12, 2025. Similarly, Joshin Web's lottery will run from April 24 to April 29, 2025, and is limited to Platinum and VIP Smile Web members.
As excitement builds around the Switch2, it’s important to note that the multilingual model will only be available through the My Nintendo Store, making it a unique offering for international consumers. This exclusivity adds another layer of anticipation, as fans hope to experience the latest gaming technology in their preferred language.
The first lottery results from My Nintendo Store are expected to be announced on April 24, 2025, after which consumers can decide whether to pursue reservations at other retailers based on their lottery outcomes. The second round of lottery applications at My Nintendo Store will begin on April 28, 2025, with further details to be announced soon.
In summary, the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 is set to be a significant event in the gaming world, with a variety of models catering to different audiences. As the reservation date approaches, consumers are encouraged to prepare and stay informed about the various lottery systems in place to ensure they have the best chance of obtaining this highly sought-after console.
