Securing a Nintendo Switch 2 on its launch day might be less challenging than you anticipate
The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025, with a base price of $449, according to Nintendo President Shuntaru Furukawa. A Mario Kart bundle will be available for $499.
Nintendo is taking a multifaceted approach to combat scalping of the Nintendo Switch 2. One of their strategies involves delaying the launch to March 2025, ensuring better supply chain readiness and avoiding potential shortages that could encourage scalping.
In addition to increasing production volume, Nintendo is implementing technological controls and account restrictions. The Switch 2 will feature encrypted USB-C ports to prevent the use of unauthorized third-party docks, and Nintendo has introduced a strict update to its Nintendo Account user agreement to address unauthorized software, hardware modifications, and piracy.
Nintendo is also taking specific measures in Japan to combat scalpers, reflecting ongoing efforts to curb scalping through both production and legal/policy actions.
If the Switch 2 launches at $399 and is subject to a 40% price increase due to tariffs, the console could potentially cost $560 in the future. However, the first wave of consoles launching without the impact of tariffs could help prevent a significant price increase.
Mat Piscatella of Circana games suggests that early adopters of the Switch 2 might not be very price-sensitive. This could mean that it might be beneficial to invest in a Switch 2 as soon as possible, before potential price increases due to tariffs.
Rumors suggest that the Switch 2 may be outfitted with an Nvidia chip, but this is not confirmed. It is also worth noting that the Nintendo Switch, the company's second best-selling console to date, with 151 million units sold, has set the stage for high expectations for the Switch 2.
However, the article does not provide any new information about Nintendo's measures to prevent scalping of the Switch 2 beyond what has been previously reported.
[1] Nintendo Life [2] GamesRadar [3] Polygon [4] Kotaku
- The upcoming Switch 2 will have encrypted USB-C ports in an effort to combat the use of unauthorized third-party docks and prevent piracy.
- The preservation of a better supply chain and combating scalping are key strategies Nintendo is employing for the launch of the Switch 2.
- The Nintendo Switch 2, despite not having confirmed Nvidia chip specifications, is expected to maintain high expectations due to its predecessor's impressive sales record.
- Early adoption of the Switch 2 may be beneficial, as suggested by Mat Piscatella of Circana games, with considering the potential tariffs-induced price increases.
