UPDATE: May 5, 2025, 4:00 p.m. EDT. This article has been updated with the latest information regarding Nintendo Switch 2 preorder availability at major retailers. We've included additional insights to assist readers in tracking Switch 2 restocks.
The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 preorder date in the U.S. has come and gone as of late April, leaving many hopeful gamers without a console. However, there is still a chance to secure one. Following a brief delay linked to President Donald Trump's tariffs, Nintendo Switch 2 preorders officially launched online on April 24, leading to website crashes across several major retailers. Within hours, preorder listings for the $449.99 console at Best Buy, GameStop, Target, and Walmart were labeled as “coming soon,” “not available,” or “out of stock.” The same situation applied to the $499.99 Mario Kart World bundle.
For those fortunate enough to secure a Switch 2 preorder, you can pick up your new console at Best Buy and GameStop starting June 5, with both retailers planning to open their doors at midnight ET on launch day. Walmart customers who preordered before June 4 can expect free delivery by 9 a.m. local time on June 5, while supplies last. We’ve reached out to Target for information about their launch day plans and will update the article once we receive a response.
As of now, there has only been one restock reported. Several price trackers and Reddit discussions indicate that Walmart briefly replenished its Switch 2 inventory on April 26. Since then, there has been no restock news. If you're considering refreshing the retailer pages, it may be more effective to employ other strategies. Keep reading for guidance on how to preorder the Switch 2 directly from the My Nintendo Store and how to effectively track restocks online.
If you missed the major retailers, there is still an opportunity to secure a preorder through the My Nintendo Store in May. Nintendo's online storefront will begin sending out preorder invitations in waves starting Thursday, May 8. Interested shoppers can register for access ahead of time on Nintendo's website. Here’s the process:
Visit Nintendo's website. Log into your active Nintendo Switch Online account. Register your interest in the Switch 2 console or bundle.Starting May 8, eligible account holders will receive email links to preorder a Switch 2 directly from Nintendo on a first-come, first-served basis. However, there are some eligibility requirements:
Your Nintendo Switch Online account must be active, paid, and at least 12 months old. You must have a minimum of 50 gameplay hours registered on your account.These measures help Nintendo ensure that preorders are going to genuine gamers rather than scalpers. If you’ve had no luck with the major retailers, this could be a solid backup option.
Once notified via email, you will have 72 hours to place your Switch 2 preorder. Each account is limited to one system. It’s important to note that Nintendo has updated its preorder page to indicate that they cannot guarantee release day deliveries due to high demand. Some invitations may even arrive after the official launch on June 5, but you will receive a shipping date once your preorder is confirmed. To increase your chances of obtaining a Nintendo Switch 2 at launch, Nintendo encourages shoppers to also consider purchasing from their retail partners.
If you're eager to stay updated on Switch 2 restocks, we recommend checking out Mashable's Alex Perry's comprehensive guide. For a quick summary, you can sign up for alerts from retailers like Walmart, but these notifications often arrive at the same time as everyone else’s. For a higher chance of success, consider following inventory trackers on social media.
Specifically, follow Jake Randall and Matt Swider on X, both of whom have established reputations and large followings. Additionally, Wario64 is another key account to follow across X and BlueSky, providing alerts for a variety of stock updates, including those for the Switch 2. Perry personally recommends Wario64, stating that it played a crucial role in helping him secure both a PS5 and an Xbox Series X when they were scarce in 2020.
The next-generation Nintendo Switch 2 is priced at $449.99, making it $150 more expensive than the original Switch released in 2017 and $100 more than the 2021 OLED model. Additionally, a limited-time bundle is available for $499.99, which includes a download code for the exclusive launch title, Mario Kart World. The Switch 2 will ship with the following accessories:
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 CableMashable reporter Alex Perry had the opportunity to test the Switch 2 at a recent Nintendo event, noting, “I can confirm that the Switch 2 is noticeably more powerful than the original Switch.” He praised the console's premium feel and impressive performance, highlighting the significant upgrades in its display. The new 7.9-inch 1080p screen, which supports HDR and a 120Hz refresh rate, offers a vastly improved gaming experience compared to the 6.2-inch 720p display of its predecessor. Perry also mentioned that the enhanced Joy-Cons deliver seamless gameplay across vibrant worlds in games like Mario Kart World.
The journey to the Nintendo Switch 2 began with its announcement during an April 2 Direct. Nintendo initially planned to open preorders on April 9 but delayed them due to the Trump administration's tariff policies and evolving market conditions. Eventually, Nintendo confirmed the new preorder date in a mid-April press release, assuring fans that the Switch 2 and its bundle would not face a tariff-related price increase. However, the pricing for several upcoming standalone games remained unchanged, while some accessories will see price adjustments due to market fluctuations.
There are numerous exciting titles set to launch alongside the Nintendo Switch 2. While some games are not technically launch titles, anticipation runs high for many. Key titles include:
Mario Kart World Donkey Kong Bonanza The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (Switch 2 Edition) Kirby and the Forgotten Land + Star Crossed World The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (Switch 2 Edition) Street Fighter 6 Years 1-2 Fighters Edition Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition Sonic X Shadow Generations Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Super Mario Party Jamboree Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion Puyo Puyo Tetris 2 Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar Yakuza 0: Director's CutIn addition to the titles mentioned, several Switch 2 accessories are now available for preorder at major retailers. Stay tuned for updates on pricing and availability as we approach the launch date.
