Let's dive straight into the big news: No, you can't preorder the Nintendo Switch 2 just yet. Preorders are expected to open following the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct on April 2. But don’t worry—we’ve got all the info you need to get ready for what's shaping up to be an epic console launch.
Switch 2 Preorders: Register Your Interest Now
Although preorders aren't available yet, Best Buy is allowing you to register your interest. This is a wise move to ensure you get email notifications when preorders go live in the coming months. Meanwhile, GameStop is the only major retailer with an official Switch 2 listing, which will likely stay "unavailable" until April.
Here are some additional tips to stay on top of things:
- Follow IGN and IGNDeals on social media platforms like Bluesky and X (formerly Twitter). We’ll keep you in the loop with updates on preorders for the console, games, and accessories.
- Keep an eye on major retailers like Target, Walmart, GameStop, and Best Buy.
- A word of caution about Amazon: They've had limited availability for Nintendo products in 2024. The only major release they sold directly this year was The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom—and that was a month late. It's probably safer to look at other retailers for your preorders.
Mario Kart 9 Preorders
One game already confirmed for the Switch 2 is Mario Kart 9, which was briefly teased in the console’s announcement trailer. While preorders for the game aren’t live yet, they’re expected to launch alongside console preorders. It wouldn’t be surprising if Nintendo also announces a Mario Kart 9 bundle, which could be a hot ticket item.
How Much Will the Switch 2 Cost?
Nintendo hasn’t confirmed the price for the Switch 2 yet, but speculation suggests it will fall between $399 and $499. Analysts, including Dr. Serkan Toto from Kantan Games Inc., believe $400 is the “sweet spot” for success, striking a balance between value and competitiveness.
For context, here are the prices of Nintendo’s current lineup:
- Nintendo Switch: $299
- Nintendo Switch OLED: $349
- Nintendo Switch Lite: $199
Given the hints of improved power and features in the trailer, a $400 price point for the Switch 2 seems quite plausible.
Switch 2 Release Date
The Switch 2 is slated for a 2025 release, though specifics are still under wraps. More detailed information is expected during the April 2 Nintendo Direct.
Nintendo has also planned preview events through June 2025, indicating a likely launch in the second half of 2025.
Stay tuned as we bring you all the latest news on the Switch 2, including updates on preorders, pricing, and exclusive game announcements.
Mario Kart 9 - First Look
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Upcoming Switch 2 Games
We can make some educated guesses about what games to expect on the Switch 2. Games announced for the current Switch that are due this year and beyond are likely to also appear on the Switch 2. For instance, Metroid Prime 4 is a safe bet.
Other strong contenders include Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Professor Layton and the New World of Steam. The burning question is whether these games will look and play significantly better on the Switch 2 compared to the original Switch.
In a recent podcast, Nate the Hate mentioned that several Xbox games are coming to the Switch 2, including Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and Halo: The Master Chief Collection. Windows Central’s Jez Corden has backed this up, suggesting that most, if not all, Xbox games could launch on the Switch 2 if the console can handle them.
Additionally, according to Nate the Hate, Ubisoft is bringing a number of titles to the Switch 2, including a port of Assassin’s Creed Mirage within 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 rumored to be coming to the Switch 2, albeit at a later date outside the launch window.
