The Nintendo Switch 2: A Preorder Guide and What We Know So Far

Let's address the elephant in the room: Switch 2 preorders aren't open yet. Expect them to begin after the April 2nd Nintendo Direct. However, we've compiled key information to help you prepare for this highly anticipated launch.

Register Your Interest

While preorders aren't live, retailers like Best Buy are accepting interest registrations. This ensures you receive email alerts when preorders open. GameStop also has a listing, but it will likely remain unavailable until after the April announcement.

Additional Tips for Securing a Preorder

• Follow IGN and IGNDeals on social media (Bluesky, X) for updates on console, game, and accessory preorders.
• Monitor major retailers: Target, Walmart, GameStop, and Best Buy.
• Amazon's track record with Nintendo products in 2024 is less reliable, so consider other retailers as a safer bet.

Mario Kart 9: A Confirmed Title

Mario Kart 9, briefly shown in the Switch 2 announcement trailer, is confirmed. Preorders will likely open alongside the console's preorders. A bundled console and game package is also a strong possibility.

Switch 2 Pricing and Release Date

Pricing remains unconfirmed, but estimates range from $399 to $499. Analysts suggest $400 is the optimal price point. Consider the current Switch prices:

• Nintendo Switch: $299
• Nintendo Switch OLED: $349
• Nintendo Switch Lite: $199

A 2025 release is anticipated, with more precise details expected from the April 2nd Nintendo Direct. Preview events extending to June 2025 suggest a second-half 2025 launch.

Upcoming Switch 2 Games: Speculation and Rumors

Based on current announcements, several titles are likely Switch 2 candidates: Metroid Prime 4, Pokémon Legends: Z-A, and Professor Layton and the New World of Steam. The key question is whether these will offer significantly enhanced visuals and gameplay on the new hardware.

Reports suggest several Xbox games, including Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and Halo: The Master Chief Collection, might also be ported. Ubisoft titles, such as Assassin's Creed Mirage (launch window) and Assassin's Creed Shadows (later release), are also rumored.

Stay tuned for further updates on the Switch 2, including preorder information, pricing, and game announcements.