Switch 2 Pre-Order Delays: What’s Going On?
Just when fans thought they’d be locking in their Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders, a surprising delay has hit the scene. The reason? It may come down to an unexpected culprit: international tariffs.
Reports suggest that Nintendo is currently navigating new tariff regulations that impact the cost of importing components and finished goods—especially those produced in countries like China. While Nintendo has remained quiet on the matter, insiders believe this is directly linked to the lack of pre-order availability across major retailers.
What Could This Mean for Switch 2’s Price Point?
Delays due to tariffs typically mean one of two things:
- The company is reconsidering its launch strategy and production pipeline.
- Consumers may see a higher price tag at launch.
Nintendo has historically aimed to keep its consoles competitively priced (the original Switch launched at $299), but with increased production costs and tariff pressures, the official price for the Switch 2 has now been confirmed: $450 for the base console and $499 for the bundle that includes Mario Kart World.
This reflects the global economic climate and Nintendo’s strategy to bundle one of its most beloved IPs as a value-add while adjusting for unavoidable costs. While some fans may flinch at the higher price, it still positions the Switch 2 competitively within the market.
When Will Pre-Orders Open? Our Prediction
With the Nintendo Switch 2 officially confirmed to launch on June 8, 2025, the window for pre-orders is rapidly narrowing. Given standard lead times and marketing rollouts, we now expect pre-orders to open as early as mid-to-late April, with a hard deadline no later than May 15, 2025.
This compressed timeline means Nintendo is likely working fast behind the scenes to finalize regional pricing and resolve any tariff complications. If a Nintendo Direct is scheduled in the coming weeks, expect pre-orders to follow immediately after.
