Nintendo has announced an indefinite delay in U.S. pre-orders for its highly anticipated Switch 2 console, originally scheduled to begin on April 9, 2025. This decision comes in response to newly imposed tariffs by the Trump administration, which have introduced significant economic uncertainties affecting the gaming industry. Despite this postponement, the official release date for the Switch 2 remains set for June 5, 2025.
Background on the Switch 2
Unveiled on April 2, 2025, the Nintendo Switch 2 represents a substantial upgrade over its predecessor. The console features enhanced graphics, a larger screen, improved controllers, and functional voice chat. It maintains backward compatibility with existing Switch titles and is set to launch alongside new games such as Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza. The standard edition is priced at $449.99, with a special edition bundled with Mario Kart World available for $500.
Impact of Tariffs on Pre-Orders
The delay in pre-orders is directly linked to the Trump administration’s recent implementation of sweeping tariffs on imports from several countries, including a 34% duty on goods from China and a 46% duty on products from Vietnam—both key manufacturing hubs for Nintendo. These tariffs have raised concerns about increased production costs, which could potentially lead to higher retail prices for the Switch 2 in the U.S. market.
In a statement, Nintendo explained, “Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S. will not start 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.”
Historical Context and Industry Response
This is not the first time Nintendo has faced challenges due to U.S. tariffs. In 2019, amid escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and China, Nintendo, along with industry giants Sony and Microsoft, jointly requested exemptions from proposed tariffs, citing potential harm to consumers and the gaming industry. Business Insider
The current tariffs have broader implications beyond Nintendo. The FTSE 100 experienced a 4.95% drop, its steepest since March 2020, as global markets reacted to fears of an international trade war. Economists and global leaders have warned of rising consumer costs, inflation, and the risk of a global recession.
Consumer Concerns and Market Outlook
The Switch 2’s pricing has already been a point of contention among consumers, with the base model priced at $449.99 and some games reaching up to $79.99. The introduction of tariffs exacerbates these concerns, as increased production costs may lead to further price hikes. During recent Nintendo livestreams, consumers expressed dissatisfaction, calling for price reductions.
Nintendo is currently evaluating the situation to determine the best course of action. The company has a history of adapting to geopolitical risks by diversifying its manufacturing locations. Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa has previously stated that the company is prepared to adjust pricing strategies in response to such challenges. Business InsiderTech Crawlr
