Fans anticipating the Nintendo Switch 2 in the United States will need to exercise patience, as pre-orders for the console have been postponed due to newly announced international tariffs by the Trump administration. While the planned launch date remains unchanged at June 5, the commencement of pre-orders has been delayed until a later, yet-to-be-determined date while Nintendo evaluates the effects of the tariffs on the market.
Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Order Postponement
In a statement provided to IGN and other media outlets, Nintendo confirmed that pre-orders would not commence on the previously slated date of April 9, 2025.
“Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S. will not start April 9, 2025 to evaluate potential tariff impacts and changing market conditions,” the company indicated in a statement released on Friday. “We will provide updates on the timing at a later date. The launch date of June 5, 2025 is not affected.”
This announcement follows the Trump administration’s implementation of extensive tariffs on imports from various nations, which has resulted in significant fluctuations in global stock markets, with over $6 trillion (about Rs. 5,14,59,900 crore) erased from Wall Street in just two days. Analysts suggest that the anticipated tariffs may be influencing the already high pricing of the Nintendo Switch 2, raising questions about whether Nintendo will adjust its pricing strategy ahead of the console’s launch.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to retail at $449.99 (approximately Rs. 38,500) for the single storage option of 256GB. Additionally, a Mario Kart World bundle will be offered at a recommended price of $499.99 (around Rs. 42,725).
Tariffs’ Repercussions
Last week, President Donald Trump announced a 10 percent tariff on various imports, with significantly higher rates imposed on goods from countries including China, Japan, and Vietnam. Analysts believe these tariffs could negatively affect the video game industry at large. The Entertainment Software Association (ESA), representing the gaming industry in the US, shared concerns with IGN, asserting that the tariffs would have a “real and detrimental impact on the industry.” ESA spokesperson Aubrey Quinn elaborated that the tariffs might affect pricing, consumer spending, and revenue, potentially leading to layoffs in the gaming sector.
Nintendo revealed the Switch 2 during a comprehensive hour-long Nintendo Direct livestream on April 2, providing the public with insights into the console and the upcoming games slated for release in 2025 and beyond. The Nintendo Switch 2 will officially launch on June 5.
