Nintendo has officially announced the pre-order date and pricing details for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 console and its range of accessories. Despite the base console price remaining steady, there's been a notable shift in the cost of accessories, which could potentially influence the pre-order decisions of early adopters.
The base model of the Nintendo Switch 2 retains its price at $449.99, while the bundle that includes Mario Kart World is priced at $499.99. Mario Kart World, a standout kart racer, continues to be available as a standalone game for $79.99. Meanwhile, Donkey Kong Bananza is set to retail at $69.99.
However, the pricing landscape for accessories has shifted upward. Here's a detailed breakdown:
- Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller - $84.99
- Joy-Con 2 Pair - $94.99
- Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip - $39.99
- Joy-Con 2 Strap - $13.99
- Joy-Con 2 Wheel Set - $24.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 Camera - $54.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 Dock Set - $119.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector - $39.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case - $84.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 AC Adapter - $34.99
In their official announcement, Nintendo explained that the price adjustments for Switch 2 accessories were due to "changes in market conditions" since the initial announcement on April 2. A common increase of $5 has been applied to significant items like the Joy-Con 2 Pair, Switch 2 Pro Controller, and the camera. The Switch 2 Dock Set saw a $10 increase, moving from $109.99 to $119.99.
The community has been vocal about the new accessory prices, particularly the cost of an additional pair of Joy-Cons, which is now nearly $100. This has led to some confusion and dissatisfaction among potential buyers.
Despite the pricing concerns, there's a silver lining for those upgrading from the original Switch. Nintendo's support site confirms that many Switch 1 accessories, such as the original Joy-Con controllers and the Nintendo Switch 1 Pro Controller, will remain compatible with the Switch 2. While the original Joy-Cons cannot be directly attached, they can be wirelessly paired, as can the Pro Controller. Additionally, legacy controllers like those from the Super Nintendo and N64 will continue to work with compatible games on the new console.
Still compatible bbyyyy pic.twitter.com/lbPJiF1ARO
— Pokmar (@Pokmar03) April 2, 2025
This compatibility news has sparked discussions on social media about using existing Switch 1 accessories or opting for third-party alternatives. These options may not include all features like the C-button or the ability to wake up the console, but they offer a cost-effective solution for some.
Nintendo has also cautioned that future price adjustments could occur, stating, "Other adjustments to the price of any Nintendo product are also possible in the future depending on market conditions." This provides some reassurance for those hesitant about the current prices, knowing they can potentially use their existing Pro controllers with the new console.
Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 are set to open on April 24, 2025.
