Get ready, gamers! The Nintendo Switch 2 is almost here, and pre-orders kick off April 24, 2025, in the U.S. Priced at a steady $449.99, this next-gen console is set to fly off virtual shelves. After a tariff-induced delay, Nintendo’s back with a plan to keep fans hyped for the June 5 launch. Tech4Get’s got the full scoop on the Switch 2 pre-order madness—where to buy, what’s pricier, and how to beat the rush.
Pricing Stays Rock-Solid Despite Tariff Drama
Nintendo’s keeping it real: the Switch 2 stays at $449.99 for the standalone console and $499.99 for the Mario Kart World bundle, despite new tariffs hitting production in China (145%) and Vietnam (10%). Games like Mario Kart World ($79.99) and Donkey Kong Bananza ($69.99) also dodge price hikes. But there’s a catch—accessories like the Pro Controller and microSD cards are getting a $1-$10 bump (think $84.99 for the Pro Controller). Nintendo blames “evolving market conditions,” but U.S. fans are just stoked the console price didn’t budge.
Where and When to Pre-Order
Mark your calendars and set your alarms—pre-orders start April 24, and stock could vanish faster than a PS5 launch. Here’s the lineup, per The Verge and The Shortcut:
- Target: Midnight ET (0:00), online for consoles, games, and accessories.
- Walmart: Midnight ET, confirmed by spokesperson Leigh Stidham.
- GameStop: 11:00 AM ET online; in-store when doors open (usually 10:00 AM local).
- Best Buy: April 24, time TBD, via app and BestBuy.com.
- Sam’s Club: April 24, time unclear.
- Amazon: Not confirmed yet—keep an eye out. With 60% of U.S. gamers planning holiday tech buys (per 2024 surveys), you’ll need to move fast. Pro tip: save payment info on retailer sites and follow @Wario64 on X for real-time alerts, as IGN suggests.
Why the Switch 2’s Worth the Hype
The Switch 2’s power is rumored to rival a PS4 Pro, blending portability with beefy graphics for Mario Kart World and beyond. CNET says it’s a leap from the original Switch, perfect for U.S. families, commuters, or anyone who games on the go. Nintendo’s pulling out all the stops, even tapping Paul Rudd for a nostalgic ad remixing his 1991 SNES spot, per ComicBook.com. With a June 5 launch and midnight events at GameStop and most Best Buy stores, the vibe’s electric—X posts are already buzzing with “shut up and take my money” memes.
The Tariff Twist and What It Means
Originally set for April 9, pre-orders got pushed back as Trump’s tariffs rocked Nintendo’s Asia-based production. The company apologized, promising the delay won’t mess with the June 5 launch. While the console price holds, accessory hikes (like a $60 256GB microSD) sting a bit. X users are split—some cheer the stable $449.99, others grumble about pricier controllers. For U.S. shoppers, it’s a mixed bag, but the Switch 2’s hype outweighs the gripes.
How to Lock in Your Pre-Order
Don’t get stuck refreshing sold-out pages. Here’s your game plan:
- Prep Accounts: Set up profiles at Target, Walmart, and Best Buy with payment info ready.
- Go Early: Hit Target or Walmart at midnight ET—The Shortcut says stock could sell out in seconds.
- Backup Plan: Try GameStop at 11:00 AM or check Sam’s Club for less traffic.
- Avoid Scalpers: IGN warns against paying inflated prices—wait for restocks if you miss out. With demand sky-high, this is your shot to join the Switch 2 revolution before the summer rush.
Don’t Miss the Switch 2 Train!
The Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up as 2025’s must-have gadget, blending power, portability, and Mario-level fun. Pre-orders drop April 24—will you be ready? Tech4Get’s tracking every update, so stick with us for the latest deals and drops. Got your retailer picked? Share your plan in the comments and let’s game on
