Nintendo has officially confirmed that pre-orders for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 will begin on April 24, 2025, in the United States, ahead of its launch on June 5, 2025. While fans eagerly wait to secure their consoles, there are a few important updates regarding pricing, accessory changes, and where you can place your order.
No Change in Console and Game Pricing — For Now
Despite concerns over market shifts and tariffs, Nintendo is keeping the initial prices for the Switch 2 console steady:
- Nintendo Switch 2 – $449.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle – $499.99
- Mario Kart World (game only) – $79.99
- Donkey Kong Bananza – $69.99
Many fans have voiced that the game prices, particularly for Mario Kart World, feel steep, but at least they will not increase further at launch.
Nintendo stated that while these prices are holding steady, future adjustments could still happen if “market conditions” continue to evolve.
Accessory Prices See a Bump
While the console and game prices remain unchanged, most Switch 2 accessories have gotten a small price hike, ranging between $1 and $10, with most items increasing by about $5 compared to the original announcement:
- Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller – $84.99
- Joy-Con 2 Pair – $94.99
- Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip – $39.99
- Joy-Con 2 Strap – $13.99
- Joy-Con 2 Wheel Set – $24.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 Camera – $54.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 Dock Set – $119.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector – $39.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case – $84.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 AC Adapter – $34.99
Additionally, Nintendo introduced a new storage option not previously mentioned: a Samsung 256GB microSD Express Card designed for the Switch 2, priced at $59.99.
The company attributes these accessory price changes to “changes in market conditions,” widely interpreted as a response to new U.S. tariffs and increased costs.
Where and When You Can Pre-Order
Retailers are gearing up for launch day, with most offering clear plans for both in-store and online pre-orders:
- GameStop: In-store pre-orders will open when doors open on April 24, while online pre-orders will go live at 11 AM ET.
- Target: Pre-orders for consoles, games, and accessories will start at 12 AM ET on April 24.
- Walmart: Online pre-orders also begin at 12 AM ET on April 24. If you order by 8 AM ET on June 4, you should receive your console by 9 AM on launch day.
- Best Buy: Pre-orders will be available through the Best Buy Mobile App and BestBuy.com on April 24, although the specific time hasn’t been confirmed. Most Best Buy stores will open for launch pickups at 12 AM ET / 9 PM PT on June 5.
- Amazon: As of now, Amazon has not confirmed pre-order plans, but announcements may follow closer to the date.
Notably, Nintendo originally intended to start pre-orders on April 9, but delayed the rollout to account for potential tariff impacts and to stabilize pricing.
Launch Night Events
To celebrate the launch of the Switch 2, several retailers will host midnight release events, with stores opening at 12 AM ET or 9 PM PT on June 5. This mirrors the launch energy seen with previous major console releases and gives fans the chance to pick up their devices immediately.
Final Thoughts: Should You Pre-Order?
With no increase in console or game pricing (yet) and strong retailer support for pre-orders, now is a good time to reserve a Nintendo Switch 2 if you’re planning to buy one at launch. However, if you’re concerned about accessory costs, it may be wise to prioritize essentials and wait for future bundles or discounts.
Given the possibility of future price adjustments, locking in your Switch 2 at the announced price could save you money — especially as market conditions remain unpredictable.
Whether you’re excited for Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza, or just eager to experience Nintendo’s next-generation console, April 24, 2025, will be an important date to mark on your calendar.