The much-awaited Nintendo Switch 2 officially launched on June 5, 2025, and early reports show strong demand. Gamers around the globe are racing to grab the new console, resulting in widespread sellouts and long queues. Nintendo has set ambitious targets, forecasting the sale of 15 million Switch 2 units in the current financial year. This reveals the company’s confidence in the Switch 2’s success.
The launch has been a massive event in the gaming world, evoking memories of previous console debuts. Fans in places like Tokyo and New York lined up hours before stores opened—some arriving as early as dawn—eager to secure the new device. Industry analysts, such as Serkan Toto of Kantan Games, describe the demand as “sky-high,” while Piers Harding-Rolls of Ampere Analysis suggests that the large existing user base of the original Switch will help accelerate the adoption of its successor.
Why the High Demand for the Nintendo Switch 2?
The Nintendo Switch 2 arrives eight years after the original, boasting a host of hardware upgrades and new features designed to cater to both casual and hardcore gamers alike.
- Enhanced Visuals and Performance: The system features a larger 7.9-inch 1080p LCD touch screen with HDR support and can reach up to 120 frames per second. When docked, it supports 4K resolution at 60 frames per second on compatible TVs—making games sharper and smoother than ever before.
- Improved Joy-Con 2 Controllers: The redesigned Joy-Con 2 controllers magnetically attach and now offer mouse controls in compatible games, adding a new layer of gameplay flexibility.
- GameChat Feature: Nintendo has introduced a GameChat feature, which allows voice chatting, screen sharing, and even video calls with friends (via an optional USB-C camera). While this feature is free until March 31, 2026, a Nintendo Switch Online membership will be required thereafter.
- Backward Compatibility: One of the most appealing aspects of the Switch 2 is its backward compatibility with the original Nintendo Switch game cards and digital titles, allowing owners to dive into their existing libraries right away.
- Increased Storage: The console comes with 256GB of internal storage, which can be expanded using microSD Express cards, giving users more room for games and media.
- Exclusive Games: The Switch 2’s launch also introduces exclusive titles like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza, along with upgraded versions of popular games like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Super Mario Party Jamboree.
Of course, the price tags of $449.99 for the standard edition and $499.99 for the Mario Kart World bundle have caused some stir. Additionally, game prices are seeing an uptick, with Mario Kart World launching at $79.99.
Current Stock Levels and Retailer Strategies
As of June 6, 2025, finding a Nintendo Switch 2 can be tricky due to the high demand. Here’s an overview of stock availability from major retailers:
- Walmart: Online stock for both the standalone console and the Mario Kart World bundle is currently sold out. Some stores had midnight launches on June 5, but availability varies from location to location. It’s a good idea to call ahead and check stock before heading to a store.
- GameStop: GameStop had launch events, with limited stock available in some stores. Some customers have reported securing consoles without pre-orders at physical locations, but online stock remains mostly sold out.
- Target: Target had in-store availability on June 5, and while online stock is currently gone, the company has announced a restock for June 6. It’s worth checking Target’s website for local store availability, although in-store pickup for online orders might not be an option.
- Best Buy: Best Buy also had midnight launch events on June 5, with limited in-store stock. They are not offering the console for sale online during launch week.
- Amazon: Interestingly, Amazon didn’t offer pre-orders and doesn’t have a product page for the Switch 2 in the US as of now.
- Newegg: Newegg listed the Switch 2 but is currently sold out. You can sign up for notifications to be alerted when stock is replenished.
- Membership-Based Retailers (Costco, Sam’s Club, BJ’s): These retailers have intermittently had stock, but availability tends to be exclusive to members. Be sure to check their websites for up-to-date stock information.
- Nintendo’s Official Store: Nintendo has introduced an invite system on its official online store, giving priority to long-term Switch Online members (those with at least 12 months of paid membership and 50+ hours of gameplay). Invitations are valid for 72 hours, and new registrations are being added to a waitlist.
How to Get Your Nintendo Switch 2 Today
With stock being as scarce as it is, getting your hands on a Nintendo Switch 2 will require some persistence. Here are a few strategies to improve your chances:
- Check Local Store Inventory:
- Many retailers prioritized in-store sales on launch day, so smaller or less busy locations may still have some units.
- Call your local stores ahead of time to confirm availability.
- If you’re near a major retailer, try to get there as soon as they open, particularly when online restocks are expected to affect physical inventory.
- Monitor Online Retailers Closely:
- Retailers often restock in waves. For instance, Target has confirmed a restock for June 6.
- Set up stock alerts on retailer websites (Walmart, GameStop, Newegg, Target, and Best Buy).
- Make accounts on these sites and save your payment info to speed up checkout when stock becomes available.
- Utilize Membership Benefits:
- If you’re a member of Costco, Sam’s Club, or BJ’s, check their online stores regularly. These retailers sometimes get stock earlier or later than the mainstream outlets.
- Stay Informed via Tech News and Social Media:
- Follow reliable tech news sources and gaming accounts on platforms like Twitter and Instagram, where real-time stock updates are frequently shared.
- Reddit communities can also be a good source of instant stock sightings.
- Nintendo’s Invitation System:
- If you’re a long-time Switch Online subscriber with significant play time, register for the invitation system on Nintendo’s online store. While there’s no guarantee of immediate availability, it’s a direct path to securing a unit.
- Consider Bundles:
- If you’re struggling to find a standalone unit, bundles with games or accessories may have a longer shelf life in stock. If getting a Switch 2 is your priority, this could be a viable alternative.
Despite the high demand, Nintendo is reportedly ramping up production to meet the strong demand. So while securing a console might take some patience, there’s hope that availability will improve in the weeks and months ahead.
