Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Looms: Where to Pre-Order, What to Expect
The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 launch is just around the corner, and the buzz is palpable. With a confirmed launch date of June 5th, gamers are scrambling to secure their pre-orders. But where can you still snag one, and what should you expect on launch day?
Nintendo Switch 2 Restock and Retailer Updates
According to recent reports, most retailers are gearing up for Switch 2 restocks on launch day (June 5th), primarily through in-store availability. Target, Best Buy, and Walmart have confirmed limited additional stock in-store. GameStop will also have extra consoles in-store and will take orders online. Midnight launches for pre-order customers, and those without, are planned at GameStop and Best Buy.
If you're aiming for a Switch 2 as soon as possible, next week looks like your best bet. However, as one user noted, store systems will prevent early sales.
UK Stock Situation: A Silver Lining?
While the U.S. pre-order landscape has been challenging, the U.K. presents a more promising picture. Currys continues to offer Switch 2 pre-orders, albeit exclusively through bundles. These bundles, priced upwards of £550, include enticing accessories like the Switch 2 Camera and a microSD Express card to expand storage. While the cost is significant, these bundles offer value for those already planning to purchase additional accessories.
Some available bundles at Currys include:
- Switch 2 Mario Kart World + Joy-Con 2 Wheels + Switch 2 Camera: £569
- Switch 2 Mario Kart World + Tears of the Kingdom + Breath of the Wild + Case: £579
- Switch 2 Mario Kart World + SF6 + Switch 2 Camera + microSD Express: £579
Essential Retailer Links for U.S. Shoppers
The Switch 2 is currently out of stock in the U.S., but consistent monitoring of retailer websites is crucial. Here are the links you need to bookmark to be ready the moment restocks appear:
- Nintendo: pre-order w/ invite
- Walmart: check stock
- Amazon: no pre-order info
- Newegg: check stock
- Target: check stock
- Antonline: check stock
- Best Buy: check stock
- GameStop: check stock
- Sam's Club: no pre-order info
- Dell: no pre-order info
Nintendo SAN FRANCISCO Launch Night Shopping Session
Nintendo is hosting an official launch event at Nintendo SAN FRANCISCO! Due to high demand and limited product availability, a Warp Pipe Pass Reservation is required to attend the Nintendo SAN FRANCISCO Launch Night Shopping Session and purchase Nintendo Switch 2 products on June 4th from 9:00pm - 11:00pm PT.
During the Shopping Session, all Nintendo Switch 2 products will be limited to one per customer.
The Million-Dollar Question: Avoiding Scalpers and Ensuring Fair Access
With the launch date drawing near, the biggest concern remains scalpers. Concerns have been raised around limited quantities in stores. Nintendo has updated user agreements to prevent early access, potentially bricking consoles activated before the release date. However, some believe this is only directed towards modded hardware, but the user agreement is on the Nintendo website for users to verify.
The Nintendo Switch 2 launch is shaping up to be a frenzy. Will you be among the lucky few to secure a console on launch day? What retailers are you targeting? Share your strategies and experiences in the comments below!
