Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders Face Store Restrictions to Combat Scalpers

The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025, and with high anticipation comes high demand. To help ensure genuine players get priority access, Nintendo has introduced a pre-order system through the My Nintendo Store that rewards long-time users and active members.

Nintendo Account holders can now register their interest in pre-ordering the Nintendo Switch 2 console along with select accessories directly from the official Nintendo Store. Once registered, eligible users will receive an invitation email within a 72-hour window when it's their turn to purchase. However, there’s a catch: you must have been an active Nintendo Switch user prior to the launch.

To qualify for an invitation, the official guidelines state that users must have held a Nintendo Switch Online membership for a minimum of 12 months and logged at least 50 gameplay hours by April 2, 2025. This ensures that only dedicated Switch owners are prioritized during the initial release phase.

Invitations are non-transferable and will be sent to the email address linked to your Nintendo Account. Additionally, each account is limited to one unit per item during the invitation period. At this time, customers can choose between the standard Nintendo Switch 2 model or the special edition bundled with *Mario Kart World*.

Once a purchase is made, orders will ship accordingly, with estimated delivery dates provided during checkout. Please note, however, that receiving your console on launch day isn't guaranteed due to processing and shipping timelines.

While not explicitly stated, these steps appear designed to discourage scalping and prevent resellers from hoarding consoles at launch—something that plagued previous major releases like the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and even the Pokémon Trading Card Game.

Nintendo’s approach mirrors Valve’s successful queue system for the Steam Deck, which used account verification and creation dates to authenticate buyers. It seems Nintendo is taking similar precautions to promote fair access to the new hardware.

Of course, other purchasing avenues will likely emerge after launch. But for now, this system gives loyal Switch users a better chance at securing a console without getting caught in the chaos of a first-come, first-served frenzy.

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