How Much Will Switch 2 Cost? Nintendo Says It Needs to Consider ‘The Price Range That Consumers Expect for Nintendo Products’

Nintendo is carefully evaluating multiple factors as it deliberates on the price for the highly anticipated Switch 2. Although industry analysts have speculated to IGN that the new console might be priced at $400 upon its release later this year, Nintendo has not yet made an official announcement regarding the cost.

In a recent Q&A session aimed at investors, Nintendo's president, Shuntaro Furukawa, addressed the considerations behind setting the price for the Switch 2. He highlighted the impact of inflation and changes in exchange rates since the original Switch's launch in 2017. "We are aware that, in addition to how inflation is currently proceeding, the exchange rate environment has also changed significantly since around the time we launched Nintendo Switch in 2017," Furukawa stated.

Furukawa emphasized the importance of understanding consumer expectations for Nintendo product pricing. "We also need to consider the price range that consumers expect for Nintendo products. We think a multifaceted consideration of these factors is needed when deciding on the price of a product. I cannot tell you a specific price for Nintendo Switch 2 at this time, but we are taking various factors into account," he added.

Understanding the context is crucial. The original Nintendo Switch was launched at $299.99 and has maintained that price for several years. Now, almost eight years on, consumer expectations for Nintendo product pricing are a key consideration, especially given that competitors like Sony and Microsoft have adjusted their console prices due to inflation and currency fluctuations.

Analysts predict a $400 price tag for the Switch 2, which would represent a significant increase from the $300 launch price of the original Switch. Currently, the Nintendo Switch OLED model retails for $350, while the Nintendo Switch Lite is priced at $200. Although specifics about the Switch 2's features and capabilities remain largely undisclosed beyond a brief video reveal, the expectation is for a more advanced and powerful console, supporting the speculated $400 price point.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

28 Images

Nintendo has scheduled a Switch 2 Direct for April 2, where they will provide a more in-depth look at the console following its initial reveal last month. The reveal showcased the Switch 2's design, hinted at what could be Mario Kart 9, and introduced a potential 'mouse' mode for the new Joy-Con controllers.

Several questions about the Switch 2 remain unanswered, including the function of a new Joy-Con button, the console's power capabilities, and the purpose of its new ports. Nintendo plans to address these curiosities through Switch 2 hands-on events in various cities globally.

In the meantime, Furukawa confirmed that Nintendo has no intention of altering the price of the original Switch despite the upcoming launch of the Switch 2, indicating that the pricing strategy for the current model will remain unchanged.