Switch 2 Pre-Orders April 24, Console Price Stable
Apr 18, 2025
Gamers in the United States finally have a concrete timeline for securing Nintendo's next-generation hardware. Following a brief period of uncertainty regarding import taxes, the gaming giant has confirmed that pre-orders for the Switch 2 will officially open on April 24.
Despite widespread consumer anxiety that trade policies enforced by the Trump administration would force a price hike on the console itself, the system is maintaining its original MSRP. The unit will hit shelves on June 5 with a price tag of $449.99, adhering to the company's initial roadmap.
Impact on Peripherals and Add-ons
While the console remains unaffected, the same cannot be said for the ecosystem of accessories. Citing adjustments in the global economic landscape, the manufacturer noted that several add-ons will see a price increase. Consumers should expect to pay roughly $5 more for standard peripherals compared to original estimates.
The adjusted pricing structure for accessories includes:
- Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller: Increased from $79.99 to $84.99.
- Joy-Con Controllers: Increased from $89.99 to $94.99.
- Switch 2 Camera Attachment: Increased from $49.99 to $54.99.
The company also hinted that other hardware products could face similar upward price adjustments in the future depending on market volatility.
Launch Game Pricing
Fortunately for fans, the inflation hitting the hardware aisle has not impacted the software lineup for the release window. The publisher confirmed that pricing for both physical and digital editions of its flagship launch titles remains unchanged.
Confirmed prices for day-one releases include:
- Mario Kart World: $79.99
- Donkey Kong Bananza: $69.99
In a statement regarding the schedule changes, the company expressed regret over the delay in pre-order availability, hoping the confirmed dates would alleviate speculation among the fanbase.
Broader Industry Trends
The pricing volatility is not isolated to Nintendo. The video game hardware sector is currently navigating a complex web of tariffs, from which consoles are not exempt—unlike laptops or mobile phones which currently enjoy safe harbor status.
Competitors are making similar moves to offset economic pressure. Recently, Sony implemented price hikes for the PlayStation 5 across Australia, New Zealand, and Europe. While those changes haven't officially landed in the US yet, industry analysts anticipate that American consumers may eventually see similar adjustments across the board.
