Nintendo Delays Switch 2 Preorders Amid Tariff Concerns

REDMOND, Wash. — Nintendo announced on April 4, 2025, that preorders for its highly anticipated Switch 2 console will be delayed from the originally scheduled date of April 9. The company made this decision to evaluate the potential impact of new tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, though the console’s launch date of June 5 remains unchanged.

In a statement provided to multiple media outlets, including GameSpot, Nintendo spokesperson Eddie Garcia said, “Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S. will not start April 9, 2025, in order to assess the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions. Nintendo will update timing at a later date.”

This announcement follows a wave of tariff implementations affecting various products imported to the United States, leading to speculation about potential price increases for the Switch 2, which is set at $449.99. The tariffs could significantly alter pricing dynamics, depending on how much of the tariff cost Nintendo opts to pass on to consumers.

According to industry experts, the tariffs could increase the price of the Switch 2 significantly. The IPC, a trade group focused on electronics manufacturing, indicated that game console prices could rise by as much as 50% due to these tariffs.

The Switch 2 was revealed on April 2, at a time when President Trump announced extensive new tariffs on imports from a variety of U.S. trading partners. This timing has not only raised legal questions about international trade but also cast a shadow over consumers hoping to secure the console during its preorder phase.

Despite the delayed preorder announcements, Nintendo is proceeding with the planned launch date. The Switch 2 promises several upgrades from its predecessor, including a larger 7.9-inch 1080p display and 256GB of storage. Nintendo is also signaling enthusiasts that the anticipated Mario Kart World game will be part of the launch offerings.

While major retailers such as Best Buy and Walmart have created placeholder pages for the console, the uncertainty surrounding preorder dates has left customers in limbo. Customers were initially promised to receive preorder invitations starting May 8, but those plans are now under review.

Digital and physical versions of Mario Kart World will be marketed with the Switch 2, although the details concerning pricing adjustments for the console and the accompanying game bundles remain unclear. Retailers outside the U.S. have not announced similar preorder delays.

Consumers are encouraged to keep an eye on updates regarding the pricing and availability of both the Switch 2 and its accessories, which are expected to be launched alongside the console. Current projections indicate that there will be limited quantities available, particularly for the more sought-after bundles.

As the situation develops, Nintendo maintains that additional updates regarding preorder dates and specifics on pricing adjustments will be communicated promptly. For now, Nintendo’s loyal fanbase will have to wait a bit longer to secure their units ahead of the June launch.