The original Nintendo Switch, launched in 2017, revolutionized gaming with its hybrid design, blending portable and home console experiences. It sold over 17.79 million units in its first year alone, a testament to its massive appeal. The Switch 2 builds on this legacy with a beefier processor, enhanced graphics, and backward compatibility for most original Switch games. Launch titles like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza are already generating hype, with the Mario Kart World bundle outselling the standalone console by a whopping 7:1 in the US, according to data from The Shortcut.
However, the $449.99 price tag (or $499.99 for the Mario Kart World bundle) has sparked debate. Some fans argue it’s a steep jump from the original Switch’s $299.99 launch price, especially with select games like Mario Kart World retailing for $79.99. Industry analyst Mat Piscatella from Circana notes, “The pricing reflects a premium product, but the current economic climate and tariffs could push costs higher.” Despite these concerns, the Switch 2’s advanced features and strong launch lineup make it a must-have for gamers.
The Pre-Order Frenzy: What’s Happening?
Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders kicked off on April 24, 2025, in the US and Canada, with the UK following suit earlier on April 8. The response was chaotic—retailer websites like Walmart, Best Buy, and Target crashed within minutes as fans scrambled to secure their consoles. According to GamesRadar+, pre-orders sold out almost instantly, with restocks being “far and few between.” In the UK, retailers like Currys and ShopTo have had more consistent stock, often bundling the console with accessories or games, but these come at a premium, sometimes exceeding £500.
The high demand isn’t surprising. Nintendo’s partnership with Samsung to boost chip production aims to combat scalpers, but stock shortages persist. Nintendo itself warned that even pre-orders placed through its My Nintendo Store may not guarantee delivery by launch day, June 5. A deleted Reddit thread (as reported by CNET) hinted at retailers stocking up for launch day, offering hope for those who missed the initial wave.
Where to Pre-Order the Nintendo Switch 2
If you’re still hunting for a pre-order, here’s a breakdown of key retailers and their current status as of May 28, 2025:
Walmart: Pre-orders opened at midnight on April 24 and sold out quickly. Walmart promised launch-day delivery for orders placed before June 4, but recent updates suggest some deliveries may slip to June 10. Check their website daily for restocks.
Best Buy: Known for frequent crashes during pre-order drops, Best Buy is planning midnight launch events on June 5 with limited in-store stock. My Best Buy Plus or Total members can also earn $20 credit for every $150 spent on Nintendo games and accessories (excluding hardware).
GameStop: In-store and online pre-orders started on April 24, with midnight launch events planned. GameStop recently canceled bot orders to free up inventory, so keep an eye on their site for restocks.
Target: Online-only pre-orders began on April 24 and sold out fast. Target is expected to have limited stock on launch day.
My Nintendo Store: Nintendo’s invite-based system prioritizes Switch Online members with at least 12 months of paid membership and 50+ gameplay hours. Invites started rolling out on May 8, but high demand means not everyone will secure a console before launch.
Amazon: Surprisingly, Amazon hasn’t opened pre-orders in the US, possibly due to strained relations with Nintendo. A post on X from @SavinTheBees on April 24 claimed pre-orders were live, but this was unverified and likely false. Monitor Amazon closely, as they may swoop in with stock closer to launch.
For UK shoppers, My Nintendo Store recently dropped four out of five pre-order conditions, making it easier for Switch Online members to secure a console invite-free, as reported by @GBNEWS on X. Retailers like Very, Currys, and ShopTo also have bundles in stock, starting at £466 for a console, Joy-Con, and camera combo.
Expert Tips for Securing a Pre-Order
With pre-orders being a “scramble,” as Empire Online aptly put it, you need a strategy to beat the crowds. Here are expert-backed tips to increase your chances:
Set Up Retailer Accounts in Advance: Create accounts at Walmart, Best Buy, GameStop, and Target, and save your payment and shipping details. The Verge emphasizes that this saves precious seconds during checkout, as retailers won’t hold your console in the cart.
Use Multiple Devices: GamesRadar+ recommends splitting your efforts across apps, mobile sites, and desktop pages to bypass queue systems or crashes. Download retailer apps and stay logged in.
Monitor Social Media: Follow accounts like @Wario64 and @NintendoAmerica on X for real-time updates on restocks. @Wario64 has a history of posting pre-order links for major retailers, often minutes before they go live.
Join the My Nintendo Store Waitlist: Register with Nintendo, even if you don’t meet the priority criteria (12 months of Switch Online membership and 50+ gameplay hours). Invites are sent on a first-come, first-served basis, and you have 72 hours to complete your purchase.
Avoid Scalpers: PCMag warns against buying from resellers on eBay, where Switch 2 listings have popped up for $600 or more. Stick to trusted retailers to avoid scams.
Check In-Store Options: Both GameStop and Best Buy have confirmed limited in-store stock on launch day. Arrive early for midnight launch events, as Best Buy warns of long queues in major US cities.
The Tariff Controversy: Will Prices Rise?
A major wrinkle in the pre-order saga was the US tariff situation. On April 9, Nintendo paused pre-orders in the US and Canada due to new tariffs on Vietnamese exports, where the Switch 2 is manufactured. Industry analyst Piers Harding-Rolls from Ampere Analysis told IGN, “The extent of the tariffs is really bad news for Nintendo.” While Nintendo has since confirmed the $449.99 price will hold, analysts like Mat Piscatella speculate that prolonged tariffs could force a price hike in 2026.
For now, the pricing remains unchanged, and the Mario Kart World bundle offers a $30 savings on the game, making it a compelling option. However, IGN’s Logan Plant expressed concerns: “A $450 console with an $80 Mario Kart is a big ask for Nintendo’s family-focused audience.” If you’re on the fence, securing a pre-order now might lock in the current price before any potential increases.
Pre-Ordering Games and Accessories
Don’t forget about games and accessories! The Switch 2’s launch lineup includes Mario Kart World ($79.99), Donkey Kong Bananza ($69.99), and Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition as the top third-party title. You can pre-order these on the Nintendo eShop, with payment processed seven days before release and a small update required on launch day. Gold Points can also be used for discounts, per Nintendo’s FAQ.
Accessories like the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller and Samsung’s Mario-inspired microSD Express card are also hot pre-order items. GoNintendo reports strong demand for these, especially the microSD card for boosting the console’s storage. Pre-order these at retailers like Walmart, Best Buy, or GameStop to complete your setup.
Should You Pre-Order Now or Wait?
With the Switch 2 launching in just over a week, the decision to pre-order depends on your priorities. If you’re eager to play Mario Kart World or The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition on day one, pre-ordering is your best bet. However, Famiboards users suggest that if you own a Switch OLED and aren’t excited about the launch lineup, waiting for a second edition or price drop might be wiser. Nintendo’s history of avoiding major launch issues (unlike the Xbox 360’s Red Ring of Death) makes buying at launch relatively safe, but stock shortages could persist.
Final Thoughts
The Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to be a game-changer, but securing a pre-order requires strategy and persistence. By setting up retailer accounts, monitoring restocks, and leveraging Nintendo’s invite system, you can increase your chances of snagging this coveted console. With launch day approaching, keep an eye on Best Buy and GameStop for in-store opportunities, and steer clear of scalpers to ensure a fair price.
Are you ready to join the next generation of Nintendo gaming? Share your pre-order experiences in the comments below, and let us know which launch title you’re most excited for!
Sources: Nintendo Life, GamesRadar+, Tom’s Guide, IGN, PCMag, GoNintendo, The Verge, CNET, Engadget, TechRadar, Famiboards, Nintendo Official Site, and posts on X.