Let's dive straight into the burning question: No, the Nintendo Switch 2 isn't available for preorder yet. You won't be able to secure your console until after the anticipated Switch 2 Nintendo Direct presentation on April 2. But don't worry, we've got all the crucial info you need to get ready for this highly awaited console launch.
Switch 2 Preorders: Register Your Interest Now
While preorders aren't open yet, Best Buy is allowing you to register your interest. This is a savvy move to ensure you get email updates when preorders kick off in the coming months. Don't risk missing out! On the other hand, GameStop has an official Switch 2 listing, but it's currently marked as "unavailable," likely until April.
In the meantime, here are some tips to keep you in the loop:
- Follow IGN and IGNDeals on social platforms like Bluesky and X (formerly Twitter). We'll keep you posted on preorders for the console, games, and accessories.
- Keep an eye on major retailers such as Target, Walmart, GameStop, and Best Buy.
- A notable uncertainty is Amazon, which has 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 even that was a month late. Given this, it's safer to look at other retailers for securing your preorder.
One confirmed game for the Switch 2 is Mario Kart 9, which was teased in the console's announcement trailer. Preorders for the game aren't live yet, but expect them to go live alongside console preorders. There's also a good chance Nintendo will announce a Mario Kart 9 bundle, which could be a popular choice.
### How Much Will the Switch 2 Cost?Nintendo hasn't confirmed a price for the Switch 2 yet, but speculation suggests it will be 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
Given the Switch 2's hinted improvements in power and features, a $400 price tag seems reasonable.
Switch 2 Release Date
The Switch 2 is slated for a 2025 release, though specifics are still unclear. More concrete details about the release date are expected during the April 2 Nintendo Direct.
Nintendo has also planned preview events through June 2025, hinting at a likely launch in the second half of 2025.
Stay tuned for all the latest updates on the Switch 2, including preorder availability, 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 this year and beyond, like Metroid Prime 4, are likely candidates.
Other titles such as Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Professor Layton and the New World of Steam are also strong contenders. The big question is, will these games look and play significantly better on the Switch 2?
In a recent podcast, Nate the Hate mentioned that several Xbox games are expected on the Switch 2, including Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and Halo: The Master Chief Collection. Windows Central's Jez Corden confirmed this, suggesting that most, if not all, Xbox games could launch on the Switch 2 if the console can handle them.
Moreover, Nate the Hate also indicated that Ubisoft will bring several games to the Switch 2, including a port of Assassin's Creed Mirage during the console's launch window. The upcoming Assassin's Creed Shadows, currently slated for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, and PC, is also rumored to come to the Switch 2, though likely outside the launch window.