Switch 2 Pre-Order Dates and Priority Details for U.S. and Canada Revealed

The pre-order launch for the Nintendo Switch 2, initially scheduled worldwide for April 9, was delayed in the U.S. and Canada due to economic disruptions caused by Trump's tariffs. However, pre-orders proceeded as planned in other regions, including the UK. According to a FAQ on Nintendo's website, the first invitations for pre-orders will be sent out starting May 8, 2025, via the My Nintendo Store. Information regarding retail pre-orders remains unavailable.

The initial invitation emails will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible registrants who meet the priority criteria set by Nintendo. Those invited will have 72 hours from the time the email is sent to finalize their purchase.

Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order invitation priority requirements:

• You must have purchased any Nintendo Switch Online membership.
• You must have maintained any paid Nintendo Switch Online membership for at least 12 months.
• You must have opted in to share gameplay data and accumulated at least 50 hours of total gameplay.

Nintendo Switch 2 Game Boxes

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There has been no official word from Nintendo on whether they will adhere to the previously announced pricing for the Switch 2, its games, and accessories, or if adjustments will be made. Concerns have been raised by some analysts about potential price increases for the base Switch 2 beyond $449.99 due to the ongoing tariff war, though Nintendo has not yet made a definitive statement.

Notably, Nintendo is offering a bundle that includes Mario Kart World with the Nintendo Switch 2 for $499.99, effectively reducing the game's price by $30. This bundle, however, is available only for a limited time.

Nintendo Switch 2 pricing in the U.S.:

• Nintendo Switch 2 by itself: $449.99
• Nintendo Switch 2 with Mario Kart World bundled in: $499.99
• Mario Kart World by itself: $79.99
• Donkey Kong Bananza: $69.99
• Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller: $79.99
• Nintendo Switch 2 Camera: $49.99
• Joy-Con 2 Controller pair: $89.99
• Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip: $34.99
• Joy-Con 2 Strap: $12.99
• Joy-Con 2 Wheel pair: $19.99
• Nintendo Switch 2 Dock Set: $109.99
• Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case and Screen Protector: $34.99
• Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case: $79.99
• Nintendo Switch 2 AC Adapter: $29.99

IGN has provided extensive coverage on Nintendo's decision to set the price of Switch 2 games at $80, including insights from analysts explaining the rationale behind this move.

Elsewhere, former Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aimé has weighed in on the controversy surrounding the pricing of the Switch 2 tutorial game Welcome Tour, drawing parallels to the Wii's pack-in game Wii Sports in his comments on social media.