In a recent announcement, UK high street chain Game has issued an apology after canceling several pre-orders for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2. This new console, which is the successor to one of the best-selling gaming systems in history, is set to officially release on June 5. However, unfortunate news for some gamers indicates that they will not receive their consoles as expected on launch day.
Game expressed their understanding of the disappointment felt by customers in a social media post, acknowledging how eagerly many have been awaiting their orders. The cancellation news has sparked a furious reaction among affected customers, with one individual describing the situation as "outrageous." This cancellation has added to the already heightened anticipation surrounding the Switch 2.
The Nintendo Switch 2 has not only been the center of excitement but also controversy, particularly regarding the pricing of its games. For example, the boxed edition of Mario Kart World is priced at a staggering £74.99, leading some fans to question the value of the new titles. Despite these pricing concerns, the initial sales of the hardware have been robust, with most retailers reporting that they can no longer accept new pre-orders so close to the launch date.
For those gamers who no longer hold a pre-order, the return of the midnight launch event may offer a glimmer of hope. Traditionally a staple of game releases, midnight launches have become increasingly rare in recent years. However, at least one retailer, Smyths, has announced that they will hold back a limited number of consoles, promising availability in-store when doors open on launch day.
The rush for new consoles is not a new phenomenon for Nintendo. For instance, the launch of the Wii in 2006 saw similar frenzied demand, while the original Switch, which debuted in 2017, became the fastest-selling console in history in the US. This trend is not exclusive to Nintendo; rival Sony's PlayStation 5 also created a huge buzz, leading many to join virtual queues just for a chance to purchase one when it was launched in 2020. This high demand continued for the first three years of the console's lifecycle, with ongoing supply chain issues contributing to the scarcity of units until 2023.
As the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 approaches, gamers are left navigating the challenges of pre-order cancellations and the return of midnight launches. With excitement building and limited opportunities to secure a console, fans are eager to get their hands on what promises to be one of the most popular gaming devices in recent history.
