- Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders in the U.S. and Canada are delayed indefinitely.
- The delay is linked to tariff concerns and evolving market conditions.
- The console’s launch date remains set for June 5, 2025.
- The retail price is $449.99, but potential price increases are under review.
- Pre-orders in the UK have already started and sold out quickly.
Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders Delayed Amid Tariff Concerns
Gamers eagerly awaiting the Nintendo Switch 2 were met with disappointment as the company announced delays in pre-orders for the U.S. and Canada. Originally scheduled to begin on April 9, 2025, pre-orders have been postponed indefinitely due to tariff-related uncertainties and market conditions. Despite this setback, Nintendo confirmed that the console’s launch date of June 5, 2025, remains unchanged.
Why Are Pre-Orders Delayed?
The delay in pre-orders stems from the impact of new tariffs enacted in the United States. Nintendo of America issued a statement on April 4, 2025, explaining the decision: “Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S. will not start April 9, 2025, in order to assess the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions. Nintendo will update timing at a later date.”
Similarly, Nintendo of Canada confirmed that pre-orders in Canada are also postponed to align with the U.S. timeline. A statement shared with MobileSyrup read: “Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 in Canada will not start on April 9, 2025, in order to align with the timing of pre-orders to be determined in the U.S. Nintendo will provide updated information at a later date.”
Launch Date and Pricing
While pre-orders are delayed, the June 5, 2025, launch date for the Nintendo Switch 2 remains unaffected. The console is priced at $449.99 for the standalone version and $499.99 for a bundle that includes a digital copy of Mario Kart World. However, Nintendo has acknowledged that the tariff situation may lead to potential price adjustments in the U.S.
Doug Bowser, President of Nintendo of America, commented on the pricing concerns: “The $449 price tag was set based on previous tariffs. We are actively assessing what the impact of the new tariffs might be, but we have nothing further to announce at this time.”
Pre-Order Status in Other Regions
While U.S. and Canadian gamers face delays, pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 have already gone live in the UK. Retailers such as EE, GAME, and Smyths experienced rapid sellouts, with scalpers reselling pre-orders on platforms like eBay for as much as £500 ($639), compared to the retail price of £395.99 ($506).
Key Features of the Nintendo Switch 2
The Nintendo Switch 2 promises significant upgrades over its predecessor, including:
- Display: A 7.9-inch 1080p display with HDR compatibility and a 120Hz refresh rate.
- Docked Performance: 4K output at 120Hz with variable refresh rates.
- Controllers: Redesigned Joy-Con 2 controllers with magnetic attachments, larger buttons, and “HD Rumble 2” technology.
- Backward Compatibility: Support for existing Nintendo Switch games, with some titles offering enhanced “Switch 2 Editions.”
- Improved Hardware: A new processor, 256GB storage, and support for Wi-Fi 6 and faster microSD cards.
Launch Games
The Nintendo Switch 2 will debut with an impressive lineup of games, including:
- Mario Kart World
- Cyberpunk 2077
- The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (Switch 2 Edition)
- Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
- Street Fighter 6
Additional titles and enhancements are expected to be announced closer to the launch date.
Nintendo has assured fans that updates on pre-order timelines will be provided as soon as possible. In the meantime, the company is working closely with retail partners to address concerns about scalping and ensure fair access to the console upon release. While the delay is undoubtedly frustrating for fans, the June 5, 2025, launch date offers a glimmer of hope. Gamers can look forward to experiencing the next generation of Nintendo gaming with the Switch 2’s advanced features and exciting game lineup.
Sources: Tipranks, Medium