The Nintendo Switch 2 is making waves as its June 5, 2025, launch approaches, but the road to preorders has hit some bumps. Nintendo recently issued a stark warning to Japanese customers, admitting that preorder demand has far exceeded expectations. With 2.2 million applications flooding the My Nintendo Store in Japan alone, the company is struggling to keep up. President Shuntaro Furukawa apologized, noting that many fans won’t secure a console through the lottery system when results are announced on April 24. This news sets the stage for a heated preorder race globally, with U.S. and Canadian preorders kicking off at midnight ET on April 24. Let’s dive into the latest updates, from supply challenges to retailer plans, and explore what this means for gamers eager to get their hands on Nintendo’s next-gen console.
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Nintendo Switch 2 Preorder Chaos in Japan
In Japan, the Nintendo Switch 2 preorder frenzy has reached unprecedented levels. Nintendo’s lottery system, designed to manage direct sales through the My Nintendo Store, was overwhelmed by 2.2 million applications—six times the original Switch’s first-month sales in Japan. Furukawa expressed regret, stating that a “significant number” of applicants will miss out on launch day units. To address this, unselected applicants will roll into a second lottery, and Japanese retailers will open preorders on April 24. Nintendo is also ramping up production, promising ongoing shipments post-launch to ease shortages. This situation underscores the console’s massive appeal, especially with a Japan-only model priced at $350, compared to the $500 multilingual version.
U.S. and Canada Preorder Details
For U.S. and Canadian fans, the Nintendo Switch 2 preorder window opens at midnight ET on April 24, delayed from April 9 due to tariff concerns raised by President Donald Trump’s policies. Despite the delay, Nintendo has held firm on pricing: the base console remains at $449.99, and the Mario Kart World bundle is $499.99, saving buyers $30. Retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, and GameStop are gearing up, with Best Buy planning midnight store openings on launch day for preorder pickups. Walmart promises delivery by 9 a.m. on June 5 for orders placed before June 4. However, Amazon’s absence as an official Nintendo retailer raises red flags—consoles listed there may come from dubious resellers.
Preorder Tips for Success
- Act Fast: Preorders are expected to sell out quickly, especially the Mario Kart bundle.
- Check Multiple Retailers: Try Best Buy, Walmart, and GameStop, as some may oversell stock.
- Nintendo Direct: Preordering through Nintendo requires a paid Nintendo Switch Online membership with at least 12 months and 50 gameplay hours by April 2, 2025.
- Avoid Scalpers: Stick to official retailers to avoid inflated prices.
Tariff Impacts and Price Adjustments
The global economic landscape has added complexity to the Nintendo Switch 2 rollout. Trump’s tariff announcements prompted Nintendo to delay preorders to assess market impacts. While console prices remain unchanged, accessories like the Joy-Con ($94.99), Pro Controller ($84.99), and Switch 2 camera ($54.99) have seen $5 price hikes. This move mirrors Sony’s recent PS5 price increases in several regions, reflecting a “challenging economic environment.” Nintendo’s decision to absorb console price impacts while adjusting accessory costs shows a strategic balance, but it’s a reminder of the broader trade tensions affecting gaming.
Why the Hype for Nintendo Switch 2?
The Nintendo Switch 2 builds on the original’s hybrid legacy, blending portable and docked gaming. It boasts a larger 7.9-inch screen, up from 6.2 inches, and a custom Nvidia graphics card promising 10 times better visuals with ray tracing and AI upscaling. Backward compatibility ensures your existing Switch games work, while new titles like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza are generating buzz. The console’s $449.99 price has sparked debate, with some fans balking at the cost. Yet, as Charlotte Massicault of French retailer Fnac noted, preorder numbers in France hit “historic levels,” suggesting price isn’t deterring demand.
Global Demand and Supply Challenges
Beyond Japan, the Nintendo Switch 2 is seeing massive interest. In the UK, preorders sold out quickly, and France’s “completely crazy” opening weekend sales signal a global rush. Nintendo’s promise to bolster production is encouraging, but the Japan shortfall hints at potential shortages elsewhere. Furukawa’s apology and commitment to “substantial” post-launch shipments aim to reassure fans, but the reality is clear: securing a console at launch will be tough. Retailers like Smyths in the UK and Very have already faced stock issues, with some fans frustrated by strict preorder criteria, like Nintendo’s loyalty requirements.
What’s Next for Gamers?
As the Nintendo Switch 2 launch nears, the focus is on strategy. U.S. fans should prepare for a late-night preorder scramble, while those in Japan face lottery odds. Nintendo’s production ramp-up offers hope, but the initial batch will likely fall short. For now, gamers can take solace in the console’s promising specs and game lineup. Whether you’re eyeing the Mario Kart bundle or planning to trade in your old Switch for up to $175 at GameStop, staying informed is key. Keep an eye on retailer sites, avoid scalpers, and maybe offer a nod to the gaming gods for luck. The Nintendo Switch 2 is poised to redefine hybrid gaming—here’s to hoping you snag one.