Nintendo Switch 2: CHIBA, Japan (Reuters) – Nintendo fans got an early hands-on experience with the company’s new Switch 2 at an event near Tokyo on Saturday, ahead of its official launch. However, there are growing concerns that rising tariffs could push prices higher.
I’m worried about a price increase not just for the console, but for accessories as well, especially since tariffs have gone up since Mr. Trump became president,” said Hidenori Tanaka, a 55-year-old real estate worker who attended the event.
Consumers worldwide may see higher prices on electronic devices as tariffs introduced by U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration, targeting key trading partners like China, drive up costs for companies relying on global supply chains. Although Trump has eased some tariffs, the risk of a disruptive trade war continues to hang over the market.
Gamers Line Up in Tokyo for Early Switch 2 Play
Eager gamers began lining up outside Tokyo’s Makuhari Messe convention center from mid-morning on Saturday, eager to be among the first to experience Nintendo’s upcoming Switch 2 console. Attendees had the opportunity to play anticipated titles like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bonanza, both set to launch with the new system on June 5, 2025. Despite concerns over potential price increases due to tariffs, the event saw a strong turnout, highlighting the high demand for the Switch 2. In Japan alone, Nintendo received 2.2 million applications for a lottery to purchase the console, exceeding the initial supply.
Switch 2: Soaring Demand, Price in Question
Despite concerns over potential price hikes, early signs show strong consumer demand for the successor to the Nintendo Switch, which has sold over 150 million units since 2017, transforming the company’s fortunes.
On Wednesday, the Kyoto-based company revealed it had received 2.2 million lottery applications for the Switch 2 in Japan alone, far exceeding the available units.
“I honestly didn’t think I had a chance. Everyone on social media was saying they missed out, so I figured I would too,” said Hyuma Hashiguchi, 28, who was lucky enough to win the lottery and secure one of the first Switch 2 consoles.
To meet this overwhelming interest, Nintendo is hosting hands-on events worldwide, including in New York, Berlin, and Hong Kong.
The Switch 2 will be priced at 49,980 yen ($350) for the Japanese-language version, while in the U.S., despite initial delays due to tariff concerns, Nintendo has confirmed the price will remain at $449.99.
($1 = 143.6700 yen)
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Nintendo Switch 2: Key Specs & Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 7.9-inch 1080p LCD |
| Processor | Custom chipset for enhanced performance |
| Storage | 512GB |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Battery Life | 6-8 hours |
| Games | Includes exclusives like Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bonanza, and more |
| Price | $449.99 USD |
| Launch Date | June 5, 2025 |
| Pre-order Info | Available in multiple colors, including neon red and blue |
| Color Options | Available in multiple colors including neon red and blue |
Nintendo Switch 2: Design and Looks
The Nintendo Switch 2 boasts a sleek and modern design, building on the success of its predecessor while introducing subtle yet impactful changes. The console features a larger 7.9-inch LCD screen with 1080p resolution, providing sharper, more vibrant visuals.
The overall form remains portable, maintaining the signature hybrid design that allows for both handheld and docked play. The Joy-Cons are slightly refined for improved ergonomics, and the system’s slimmer profile enhances its portability. With a range of color options, including eye-catching neon red and blue, the Switch 2 not only looks stylish but is designed to feel comfortable in your hands during extended gaming sessions. The compact and durable build ensures it’s ready for on-the-go play without sacrificing performance or aesthetics.
Final Verdict
The Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to be a highly anticipated successor to the wildly successful Nintendo Switch, with an early hands-on event in Tokyo highlighting its appeal. While the console’s sleek design, improved performance, and exclusive games like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bonanza have garnered significant attention, concerns over rising tariffs could lead to higher prices. Despite these worries, the demand for the Switch 2 remains strong, with 2.2 million applications for the console’s lottery in Japan alone, signaling a high level of consumer interest.
Nintendo’s new hybrid console boasts impressive specs, including a 7.9-inch 1080p LCD display, a custom chipset, and a 512GB storage capacity, with connectivity options such as Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0. The Switch 2 will be priced at $449.99 in the U.S. and 49,980 yen in Japan, with a release date set for June 5, 2025. Despite early pre-order challenges and tariff concerns, the demand remains unshaken, and Nintendo is preparing global hands-on events to meet this overwhelming interest.
With its refined design, portable form, and eye-catching color options like neon red and blue, the Nintendo Switch 2 is poised to make a significant impact on the gaming world, though the potential for price hikes due to tariff-related issues looms large. Fans will have to wait until its official release to see whether the demand remains as high as the excitement leading up to its launch.