Let's get straight to the point: No, the Nintendo Switch 2 isn't available for preorder yet. Preorders are expected to start after the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct presentation on April 2. However, we've compiled all the crucial information you need to get ready for what promises to be one of the most eagerly awaited console launches in recent times.
Switch 2 Preorders: Register Your Interest Now
Although preorders aren't open yet, Best Buy is allowing you to register your interest. This is a wise move to ensure you receive email updates when preorders become available in the coming months. On the other hand, GameStop is the only major retailer with an official Switch 2 listing, though it will likely remain "unavailable" until April.
Here are some additional tips to keep you in the loop:
- Follow IGN and IGNDeals on social media platforms like Bluesky and X (formerly Twitter). We'll keep you updated on preorders for the console, games, accessories, and more.
- Keep an eye on major retailers such as Target, Walmart, GameStop, and Best Buy.
- It's worth noting that Amazon has had limited availability for Nintendo products in 2024. The only major release sold directly by Amazon this year was The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom—and even that arrived a month late. Given this track record, it's probably safer to focus on other retailers for securing your preorder.
Mario Kart 9 Preorders
One confirmed game for the Switch 2 is Mario Kart 9, which was briefly showcased in the console’s announcement trailer. While preorders for the game are not yet live, it's reasonable to expect they'll launch alongside console preorders. It wouldn't be surprising if Nintendo announces a Mario Kart 9 bundle, which could be a popular choice as well.
How Much Will the Switch 2 Cost?
Nintendo has yet to confirm a price for the Switch 2, but speculation suggests it will fall between $399 and $499. Analysts, including Dr. Serkan Toto of Kantan Games Inc., believe $400 is the “sweet spot” for success, striking a balance between value and competitiveness.
For context, here are the current prices for Nintendo’s existing lineup:
- Nintendo Switch: $299
- Nintendo Switch OLED: $349
- Nintendo Switch Lite: $199
If the Switch 2 builds on its predecessor with improved power and features—as hinted in the trailer—a $400 price tag seems likely.
Switch 2 Release Date
The Switch 2 is currently slated for a 2025 release, but specifics remain vague. More concrete information about the release date is expected during the April 2 Nintendo Direct.
Nintendo has also scheduled preview events through June 2025, suggesting the console will likely launch in the second half of 2025.
Stay tuned as we cover all the latest news on the Switch 2, including preorder updates, pricing, and exclusive game announcements.
Mario Kart 9 - First Look
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Upcoming Switch 2 Games
We can make some informed guesses about what games to expect on the Switch 2. It seems likely that games Nintendo has announced for the Switch this year and beyond will also make their way to the Switch 2. Metroid Prime 4, for example, is a safe bet.
Other probable titles include Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Professor Layton and the New World of Steam. The question is, will these games look and play significantly better on the Switch 2 compared to the Switch?
In a previous podcast, Nate the Hate mentioned that a number of Xbox games are coming to the Switch 2, including Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and Halo: The Master Chief Collection. Windows Central’s Jez Corden subsequently corroborated that report, suggesting that most, if not all, Xbox games will launch on the Switch 2 if the console can handle them well.
Moreover, according to Nate the Hate, several Switch 2 games are also coming from Ubisoft, including a port of Assassin’s Creed Mirage in the console’s launch window. The upcoming Assassin’s Creed Shadows, currently slated for release on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, and PC, is also reportedly coming to the Switch 2, though at a later date outside the launch window.
