Switch 2 Leaks and Launch Chaos: Early Access, Cancelled Pre-Orders, and a Russian Gaming Culture Unfazed by Sanctions
The Nintendo Switch 2, the hotly anticipated successor to one of the best-selling consoles ever, is generating buzz and controversy even before its official launch. From early access obtained through unconventional channels to cancelled pre-orders and regional market complexities, the Switch 2's journey to launch has been anything but smooth. Let's delve into the details.
Early Access in Russia: A Glimpse Behind the Curtain
Fedor Volkov, a Russian gamer and podcaster, found himself in possession of a Switch 2 more than a week before its official release. How? Through a contact in a Telegram group, Volkov secured a pre-order from a seller obtaining units from Dubai. Despite a hefty price tag of roughly $800, Volkov, along with his podcast mates Vlad Malykhin and Artem Kolomiets, seized the opportunity to unbox and showcase the console to the world.
Volkov's videos quickly spread across social media, revealing details like the setup sequence, system settings (including only two launch themes: black and white), and the initial inability to run existing Switch 1 games without a day-one patch. Despite concerns about Nintendo's potential reaction, Volkov remains unfazed, citing the absence of official Nintendo representation in Russia due to sanctions following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
Pre-Order Problems and Launch Day Scramble
While Volkov enjoyed early access, some customers in the UK faced disappointment. Game, a UK high street chain, issued an apology after cancelling some Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders. The reason for the cancellations remains unclear, sparking frustration among affected customers. Game is working to reinstate as many pre-orders as possible.
Meanwhile, retailers like Target, Best Buy, Walmart, and GameStop have confirmed they will have limited additional stock of the Switch 2 on launch day, June 5, primarily in-store. GameStop and Best Buy will also hold midnight launches. In the U.K., Currys is offering Switch 2 bundles, albeit at a higher price point, including accessories like the Switch 2 Camera and microSD Express card.
Sanctions, VPNs, and Gaming in Russia
The situation in Russia highlights the complexities of the global gaming market. Sanctions and boycotts have impacted access to official channels, leading to the rise of a black market for unauthorized imports and digital workarounds. Gamers are using Indian and Turkish PSN accounts, prepaid cards from overseas, and bank accounts in neighboring Kazakhstan to bypass restrictions. Even HBO Max is accessed through VPNs.
Volkov and his fellow podcasters emphasize that their goal isn't to troll anyone but to demonstrate that even in Russia, despite sanctions, there are people who simply want to play video games.
Will the Switch 2 live up to the hype? The initial leaks and launch day challenges have certainly added intrigue, but the true test lies in the gameplay experience. What are your thoughts on the Switch 2 launch and the challenges faced by gamers in different regions? Share your comments below!
Related issues news
When does Switch 2 come out?
The Nintendo Switch 2 launches on June 5, with pre-orders already sold out at major retailers. GameStop is hosting an official launch event and midnight release where fans can pick up consoles at right at midnight.
Can I play Switch games on Switch 2?
So far, Nintendo has tested well over 15,000 Nintendo Switch games for Nintendo Switch 2. The vast majority, around 99% of Nintendo games and 65% of third-party games, have no compatibility issues.
Will Walmart have Switch 2 on launch day?
Switch 2 launch day - confirmed restocks Target, Best Buy and Walmart have confirmed they will have limited additional stock of the Switch 2 on launch day in-store. GameStop will also have extra consoles in-store, but has also confirmed it will take orders online.
