2025 marks a pivotal moment for Nintendo with the much-anticipated release of the Switch 2. The new console promises everything fans could want from a successor to the beloved original Switch: enhanced power and performance in a familiar form factor. However, the global economic uncertainty and ongoing trade tensions between the United States and China cast a shadow over the Switch 2's launch, complicating its prospects.
The console's $450 USD price tag and the $80 USD price for Mario Kart World have sparked heated discussions about the cost of gaming, both in the U.S. and internationally. To understand the global sentiment towards the Switch 2, I reached out to editors from IGN's international sites for their insights on the upcoming release.
How the Rest of the World Feels About the Switch 2
Feedback from IGN editors across Europe, South America, and Asia reveals a mixed reception to the Switch 2. While the hardware upgrades—including a 120hz refresh rate, HDR support, and 4K output—are celebrated, the absence of an OLED screen is a significant point of contention.
Alessandro Digioia, editor-in-chief of IGN Italy, reports that their readers are largely dissatisfied. "The main concerns revolve around the price, the lack of an OLED screen, the absence of a trophy/achievement system, and a modest launch lineup," he explains. "While some third-party announcements were welcomed, many expected more from Nintendo's first-party titles."
Pedro Pestana from IGN Portugal echoes similar sentiments: "The Switch 2 feels like a souped-up version of the original without the novelty. It's all about the games now, and Mario Kart World does look promising."
In contrast, IGN Benelux's Nick Nijiland notes a more positive response despite the price concerns. "The console sold out within hours here," he says. "Our Discord server saw a surge in new members the day we announced pre-order availability."
Ersin Kilic from IGN Turkey shares that readers appreciate the improvements over the original Switch. "The better screen quality, despite using LCD, was well-received," he notes. However, he adds, "The lack of Hall Effect in Joy-Con 2 was the most criticized aspect, given concerns about Joy-Con drift."
Kamui Ye from IGN China provides a balanced perspective. "The reveal event disappointed many due to the lackluster launch titles and confusing regional pricing," Ye says. "However, core fans remain optimistic about Nintendo's long-term plans, valuing backward compatibility and hardware refinements like magnetic Joy-Cons."
Hardware Price and Tariff Fears
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow
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The Switch 2 is set to launch at $450 USD in the United States, but pre-orders have been delayed due to ongoing tariffs imposed by President Trump. This situation is prompting Nintendo to reassess its rollout strategy ahead of the June 5 release date.
Antonia Dressler from IGN Germany indicates that European readers are less concerned about tariffs but are vocal about the console's price. "There are direct comparisons with the PS5, which is seen as a better value," she explains, noting that pre-orders are still coming in.
The pricing places the Switch 2 in direct competition with the PS5 and Xbox Series X globally. Zaid Kriel from IGN Africa comments, "At R12,499, it's now in the same price bracket as its competitors. It's no longer a cheaper alternative, especially with the rise in game prices."
In Brazil, Matheus de Lucca from IGN Brazil points out the impact of the trade war: "The weak Real against the dollar means any price increase in the U.S. will significantly affect Latin America, potentially limiting the Switch 2 to a small segment of the market."
In Japan, a region-locked version at a lower price point aims to protect the domestic market. Daniel Robson from IGN Japan explains, "Nintendo knew they couldn't go over 50,000 yen here, but they also realized that a much cheaper console would lead to import issues. Hence the region lock, ensuring the cheaper Switch only works with Japanese games and accounts."
Software Price Remains the Biggest Pain Point
Despite hardware and tariff concerns, the most significant issue for many is the price of software. Nintendo's decision to price Mario Kart World at $80 USD has caused uproar, especially when compared to other launch window games priced between $10 USD and $70 USD.
Alessandro Digioia from IGN Italy notes, "Game pricing is the biggest issue. The new pricing structure, with some first-party games at €90, is seen as unjustifiable, especially with the €9.99 Switch 2 Welcome Tour sparking additional backlash."
Antonia Dressler from IGN Germany adds, "The €90 price for Mario Kart World is unprecedented here. Even the tutorial game's cost feels like greed."
In mainland China, where no official release is planned, Kamui Ye reports that gamers may turn to the gray market. "Prices for games in Hong Kong and Japan are relatively lower," Ye says. "Despite the console's price hike, it's seen as more cost-effective than handheld PCs like the Steam Deck, especially with backward compatibility."
The Switch 2 is poised for success as a recognizable upgrade to one of the most popular consoles ever. Yet, the high cost of games amidst economic challenges, alongside uncertainties like tariffs and potential stock shortages, are causing hesitation among prospective buyers. Nintendo has generated excitement globally, but it's an excitement tempered by significant concerns.
