Nintendo is currently evaluating multiple factors as it deliberates on the price of the Switch 2. Analysts have speculated to IGN that the Switch 2 might retail at around $400 upon its release later this year, but Nintendo has not yet confirmed any pricing details.

During a Q&A session aimed at investors, Shuntaro Furukawa, the president of Nintendo, addressed concerns about the pricing strategy for the Switch 2. He acknowledged the impact of inflation and the significant changes in exchange rates since the original Nintendo Switch was launched in 2017. Furukawa emphasized the importance of understanding consumer expectations regarding the price of Nintendo products.

"We are aware that, in addition to how inflation is currently proceeding, the exchange rate environment has also changed significantly since around the time we launched Nintendo Switch in 2017," Furukawa stated. "We also need to consider the price range that consumers expect for Nintendo products. We think a multifaceted consideration of these factors is needed when deciding on the price of a product. I cannot tell you a specific price for Nintendo Switch 2 at this time, but we are taking various factors into account."

It's crucial to consider the context here. The original Nintendo Switch was launched at $299.99 and maintained that price for several years. Now, nearly eight years later, the question arises: What price range do consumers expect for new Nintendo products? Competitors Sony and Microsoft have recently raised the prices of their current-generation consoles due to rising costs, inflation, and currency fluctuations.

As previously mentioned, analysts are predicting a $400 price point for the Switch 2. This would mark an increase from the original Switch's $300 launch price, which Nintendo continues to uphold outside of special sales or bundles. The Nintendo Switch OLED model is priced at $350, and the Nintendo Switch Lite at $200. While specifics about the Switch 2's capabilities and features remain limited beyond Nintendo's initial reveal, the indications are that it will be a more advanced and powerful console, suggesting that a $400 price could be justified.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

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Nintendo has scheduled a Switch 2 Direct for April 2, where they will provide a more in-depth look at the console following its initial reveal last month. This event will showcase the Switch 2's form factor, offer a glimpse at what appears to be Mario Kart 9, and introduce a potential 'mouse' mode for the new Joy-Con.

However, several questions about the Switch 2 remain unanswered, including the function of the new Joy-Con button, the console's power capabilities, and the purpose of its new ports. Nintendo plans to host Switch 2 hands-on events in various cities worldwide to give consumers a closer look.

Meanwhile, Furukawa confirmed that Nintendo has no intention of altering the price of the original Switch, despite the imminent launch of the Switch 2, so expect no changes on that front.