Nintendo's journey from the original Game Boy to the groundbreaking Wii revolutionized gaming landscape. Now, eight years after the Switch transformed gaming again, Nintendo is ready for its next chapter. The Nintendo Switch 2 arrives on June 5, promising enhanced graphics, innovative controls, and fresh gaming experiences.
Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders officially begin at midnight EST on April 24 (9 PM PST, April 23) at major US retailers. Nintendo has already warned about limited supply and high demand. Knowing where and how to secure your console is crucial for anyone hoping to play on launch day.
Two main options are available for gamers: the standard Nintendo Switch 2 (US$449.99) and the Nintendo Switch 2: Mario Kart World bundle (US$499.99). The bundle represents the better value. It saves US$30 compared to buying the game separately at its US$79.99 retail price. Nintendo has indicated that the bundle is a limited-time release. It will likely sell out even faster than the standard edition.
Walmart (US$449.00/US$499.00) offers the best delivery promise. Systems ordered early will arrive by 9 AM on release day (June 5). It's also offering the console and bundle for slightly less than competitors. Walmart+ members receive additional benefits including free shipping.
GameStop (US$449.99/US$499.99) provides both online and in-store pre-order options. Unlike other retailers starting at midnight, their online pre-orders begin at 11 AM EST on April 24. Select locations will host midnight pickup events on launch day.
Best Buy (US$449.99/US$499.99) is also planning midnight launch events. They offer alternative bundles with various accessories. Their pre-orders start at midnight EST.
Target (US$449.99/US$499.99) has online-only pre-orders beginning at midnight EST. They have a complete lineup of games and accessories available alongside the console.
Amazon is the wild card. Currently, no Nintendo Switch 2 listings appear on their US storefront. This continues a pattern of missing Nintendo products that has persisted for months.
The Nintendo Switch 2 launches with several new accessories and games:
| Accessories | Price | Games | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pro Controller | US$84.99 | Mario Kart World | US$79.99 |
| Joy-Con 2 (Light Blue/Red) | US$94.99 | Zelda: Breath of the Wild | US$79.99 |
| Carrying Case & Screen Protector | US$39.99 | Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom | US$79.99 |
| Nintendo Switch 2 Camera | US$54.99 | Kirby and The Forgotten Land | US$79.99 |
| Dock Set | US$119.99 | Super Mario Party Jamboree | US$79.99 |
| Samsung microSD 256GB | US$59.99 | Donkey Kong Bananza (July 17) | US$69.99 |
Other titles including Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon Legends: Z-A have been announced but not yet available for pre-order.
With Nintendo struggling to meet the worldwide demand (citing 2.2 million applications in Japan alone), forming a purchasing strategy becomes is a must:
Log in to a retailer account before pre-orders open
Save payment and shipping information in advance
Have backup payment methods ready
Be prepared for virtual queues and website slowdowns
Consider multiple retailers if first choice sells out
The Switch 2 launch follows a delayed pre-order window (originally scheduled for April 9) that was postponed due to tariffs and market conditions. UK pre-orders have already sold out completely. Suggesting US availability will be similarly limited and may even face supply demand issues in the first initial months.
The Nintendo Switch 2 launch reveals a shifting trend in gaming hardware releases. Pre-order chaos is now the norm rather than the exception. Manufacturers increasingly rely on FOMO and artificial scarcity to drive day-one sales.
What many shoppers miss is that the bundle offerings aren't just convenience packages—they're smart business moves by Nintendo. By packaging Mario Kart World with the console at a discount, Nintendo guarantees they sell both hardware and software in one transaction. This means every bundle buyer becomes an immediate game owner, rather than someone who might buy games later.
For shoppers, this means targeting bundles provides not only better value but often better chances of securing a system at launch. They are also stepping into Nintendo's carefully crafted customer acquisition plan that has built one of gaming's most dedicated communities. Nintendo influences third-party publishers to develop games that appeal specifically to Nintendo's demographic, creating a loyal fanbase that is less likely to be swayed by rival manufacturers.