Nintendo has made the unusual move of delaying pre-orders for the upcoming Switch 2 in the U.S., citing concerns over the impact of Trump’s tariffs and “evolving market conditions.” Originally scheduled to begin on April 9, 2025, no new start date has been announced. However, Nintendo has confirmed that the global launch date remains unchanged for June 5, 2025.

In a statement provided exclusively to IGN, Nintendo explained:

Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S. will not start on April 9, 2025 in order to assess the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions. Nintendo will update timing at a later date. The launch date of June 5, 2025 is unchanged.

It's worth noting that this delay applies only to the United States. In the UK and other international markets, Nintendo’s original pre-order schedule remains unaffected.

Switch 2 Pricing and Included Components

The Nintendo Switch 2 is priced at $449.99, with a Mario Kart World bundle available for $499.99. Individual sales of Mario Kart World will be offered at $79.99.

Each Switch 2 system includes:

• Nintendo Switch 2 console
• Joy-Con 2 controllers (L + R)
• Joy-Con 2 Grip
• Joy-Con 2 Straps
• Nintendo Switch 2 Dock
• Ultra High-Speed HDMI Cable
• Nintendo Switch 2 AC Adapter
• USB-C Charging Cable

This announcement comes amid growing speculation that Nintendo may raise prices further due to increased manufacturing costs and tariff pressures. This could potentially affect both hardware and software pricing, adding fuel to an already heated debate surrounding the company’s next-gen strategy.

Industry Reaction and Commentary

Former Nintendo of America PR professionals Kit Ellis and Krysta Yang recently shared their thoughts on YouTube regarding the recent price reveal during the Nintendo Direct. Ellis voiced concern about the public reaction:

“I don’t want to blow things out of proportion, but this does feel like a true crisis moment for Nintendo.”

Meanwhile, U.S. markets saw a downturn today following China’s retaliatory measures against Donald Trump’s tariff policies. With China imposing a 34% tax on U.S. imports starting next week, economic uncertainty looms larger. Trump, however, remained defiant, claiming that his trade strategies would remain unchanged and that China had “panicked” in response.

Impact of Tariffs on Consumer Prices

Tariffs act as import taxes, often passed directly onto consumers through higher retail prices. While some companies absorb these costs internally, it's more common for end users to bear the financial burden. As a result, rising tariffs are expected to ripple through the tech and gaming industries, affecting product availability and affordability.

Niko Partners analyst Daniel Ahmad previously warned that Nintendo’s decision to shift part of its Switch 2 production to Vietnam may not have fully insulated the company from the effects of U.S. trade policy. He noted:

"While the company has shifted some of its manufacturing to Vietnam to offset U.S. tariffs on China, the looming threat of reciprocal tariffs prior to the Switch 2 showcase will have also forced Nintendo to consider a higher price for the rest of the world."

He added that the unexpected increase in tariffs on goods from Vietnam and Japan could push Nintendo toward a broader price adjustment if the tariffs are fully implemented.

Stay Updated on Nintendo Switch 2 News

For more details, check out everything announced at the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct, and read what experts are saying about the Switch 2 price and Mario Kart World’s $80 price tag.