- Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders delayed in the U.S.
- Trump’s tariffs cited as the primary reason for the delay.
- Launch date of June 5, 2025 remains unchanged.
- Switch 2 offers enhanced features like bigger screen and better graphics.
- Retail price set at $449.99, higher than its predecessor.
Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders Delayed Due to Tariff Concerns
Nintendo has announced a delay in pre-orders for its highly anticipated Switch 2 gaming console in the U.S., citing the potential impact of tariffs introduced by former President Donald Trump. The company made this decision shortly after unveiling details about the console, which is set to launch on June 5, 2025. Despite the delay in pre-orders, the launch date remains unchanged.
Impact of Trump’s Tariffs on Nintendo
The delay in pre-orders comes as a direct response to the sweeping tariffs announced by the Trump administration, which have raised concerns about production costs and market conditions. Nintendo stated, “”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.”” The company plans to update the timing of pre-orders at a later date.
Trump’s tariffs have significantly impacted electronics companies, many of which manufacture their products in Asia. Nintendo, for instance, previously shifted production of its original Switch consoles from China to Vietnam due to similar economic tensions. Current tariffs include a 46% levy on Vietnam and a 34% levy on China, which could further complicate production and pricing strategies for the Switch 2.
Features and Pricing of the Switch 2
The Nintendo Switch 2 is the successor to the original Switch, which has sold over 150 million units since its launch in 2017. Like its predecessor, the Switch 2 is a hybrid console that can be used both as a handheld device and connected to a TV. However, Nintendo has marketed the Switch 2 as “”bigger and better,”” offering a larger screen, improved graphics, and enhanced audio features.
The console will retail at $449.99 in the U.S., which is approximately 50% higher than the original Switch’s launch price of $300. This price increase has raised eyebrows among consumers and investors, especially in light of potential tariff-related cost hikes. Despite these concerns, Nintendo has showcased exciting new games for the Switch 2, including “”Mario Kart World”” and “”Donkey Kong Bananza,”” which are expected to drive sales.
Market Reaction and Future Outlook
Following the announcement of the Switch 2 and the subsequent delay in pre-orders, Nintendo’s shares experienced a decline. Analysts attribute this to the higher retail price and uncertainties surrounding tariffs. However, the company remains optimistic about the console’s launch and its ability to replicate the success of the original Switch.
Nintendo has not disclosed where the Switch 2 will be manufactured, leaving room for speculation about potential shifts in production to mitigate tariff impacts. Industry experts, including IPC, a trade group focused on electronics manufacturing, have warned that game console prices could rise by up to 50% due to the new tariffs.
While the delay in pre-orders is disappointing for eager gamers, Nintendo’s decision to assess the impact of tariffs reflects prudent business strategy. The June 5, 2025 launch date remains unchanged, and the Switch 2 promises to deliver innovative features and exciting new games. As the situation evolves, Nintendo is expected to provide updates on pre-order availability and production plans.
Sources: Nintendo, ABC News, Business Insider, CNBC