Nintendo Switch 2 went live just before midnight on Thursday In the USA. In a matter of minutes, online inventory began selling out across big-box stores such as Walmart, Target, Best Buy, and GameStop. What ought to have been a thrilling time for enthusiasts was soon turned into cyber chaos.
Switch 2 Pre-Order Chaos: Site Crashes, Errors & Cancelled Orders
Hopeful shoppers stormed websites, where they were confronted with crashing websites, mysterious error messages, and vanishing shopping carts. More shared their agony on social networking sites, submitting images of how long they’d been waiting or orders that’d already been completed before they’re cancelled.
Nintendo Confirms Overwhelming Demand for Switch 2 Console
Nintendo responded to the frenzy, recognizing the “very high demand” and assuring that although it is doing its best to meet orders, not all customers can be assured of delivery by the official launch on June 5. The company encouraged shoppers to try again at participating retailers on release day.
GameStop, Walmart & Target Sell Out Switch 2 Pre-Orders Fast
Walmart confirmed its initial listings quickly sold out and lauded the “incredible excitement” around the console. GameStop initiated both in-store and online pre orders, but its online listings disappeared within a matter of minutes.
GameStop’s customer support later tweeted on X (formerly known as Twitter), referencing high demand and temporary website problems. They also added that there were continued efforts made to clear bot and duplicate orders in order to resume availability.
Where to Buy Nintendo Switch 2: Retailer Pre-Order Status Update
By Thursday morning, most big-box retailers had already listed the Switch 2 as “out of stock” or “unavailable.” Even GameStop’s online pre order window, which opened at 11 a.m. ET, had listings disappear within minutes.
While online orders were faltering, GameStop assured that in-store pre orders were still available all afternoon. The total preorder capacity of each retailer has not been revealed, leaving many to speculate how many units were actually available.
Why Nintendo Switch 2 Is in High Demand: Features & Games Revealed
Nintendo’s Switch 2 is not only a sequel to its 8-year-old original, but it also comes with a bigger screen, more fluid graphics, an interactive chat option, and a roster of keenly awaited new games, including a new Mario Kart World edition.
Nintendo Switch 2 Price – $499.99
The console costs $449.99, a substantial increase from the launch Switch’s price of $299. Experts attribute this to increased features, global supply chains, and recent U.S. tariff policy.
Nintendo Switch 2 Accessories Price Change Amid Tariff Concerns
The U.S. pre order began had already been delayed previously in early April with respect to tensions with trade and tariffs under the policies of President Trump. Nintendo waited to “determine the possible effect” of these changing conditions. Even though the most dramatic tariffs ultimately were put off, the doubt with respect to electronics pricing is still there.
Nintendo said the prices of certain accessories would be changed, though the base price of the console would not. Nevertheless, the hike has brought about debate, particularly in the already price-sensitive market.
Nintendo Banks on Switch 2 After Profit Slump & Lowered Sales Targets
Following the apparent dip in demand for the original Switch, Nintendo is looking to the Switch 2 to revive its console business. Nintendo is the Tokyo-based gaming juggernaut that has logged a 42% fall in profits in its first nine months of the latest fiscal year relative to the preceding year.
Nintendo’s original estimated sales of 12.5 million was lowered to 11 million in February. Now, with the Switch 2’s record-breaking pre order success, the company seems to be picking up steam.
Missed the Pre-Order? Switch 2 Official Release Date & Restock Details
Those customers who were left out during the hectic pre order period will get a second opportunity to purchase the Switch 2 when it officially releases on June 5. Nintendo and retailers that are taking part are supposed to restock consoles on that day, though availability will likely be small again.
Whether a die-hard fan or a casual player, one thing is certain that the Nintendo Switch 2 is among 2025’s most iconic launches. And the pre-order frenzy is merely the beginning of the mania.
FAQs
Q1. When did Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders start in the USA?
Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 went live just before midnight on Thursday in the U.S., and most major retailers sold out within minutes.
Q2. Where can I buy the Nintendo Switch 2?
You can buy the Nintendo Switch 2 at major retailers like Walmart, Target, Best Buy, GameStop, and directly from Nintendo. However, availability is currently limited due to high demand.
Q3. What is the official Nintendo Switch 2 release date?
The Nintendo Switch 2 is officially launching on June 5, 2025.
Q4. What is the price of the Nintendo Switch 2?
The base model of the Nintendo Switch 2 is priced at $449.99, which is higher than the original Switch due to enhanced features and market conditions.
Q5. Why were Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders canceled or delayed?
Many pre-orders were affected by website crashes, high bot traffic, and inventory errors. Some retailers canceled duplicate or flagged orders to ensure fairness.
Q6. Will there be another chance to buy the Nintendo Switch 2?
Yes, Nintendo and its retail partners plan to restock consoles on the official launch date—June 5, 2025. Customers are encouraged to check early and frequently on that day.
Q7. Can I pre-order Nintendo Switch 2 in-store?
Yes, GameStop and select other retailers offered in-store pre-orders even after online stock ran out. However, these may also be limited.
Q8. Are Nintendo Switch 2 accessories available for pre-order?
Nintendo has announced that some accessories will be available, though prices may vary due to supply chain shifts. Availability depends on the retailer.
