If you lost out on your pre-order opportunity for the Nintendo Switch 2, don’t worry—there’s hope. Unlike major console releases in the past, this time Nintendo appears to be ready. Stores such as Target, GameStop, Best Buy, Walmart, and even Costco will reportedly have record amounts on hand on launch day.
Historically, console releases have been pandemonium. Short supplies, huge lines, and anger were standard, particularly in the PS5 days. But the Nintendo Switch 2 seems to be busting that trend, bringing hope to those who are still searching for one.
Let’s dissect what you can anticipate at every large retailer.
Best Buy: Midnight Drops and Additional Consoles
Best Buy is upping the ante. The company confirmed that “nearly all” of its stores will be hosting midnight launches. Better yet—”most” of its stores will have extra copies for those without pre-orders. 250 units are being sent to some stores. It is said that 200 might be set aside, 50 or more will be available. Stores in populated cities may even carry 350 copies.
Best Buy will also distribute commemorative tokens to those attending midnight launches. Stores will open at midnight Eastern, Central, Mountain, and Pacific times respectively. If you’re serious about scoring a console, call your local store in advance.
GameStop: Early Activities and Encouragement for Walk-Ins
GameStop is kicking off its Switch 2 celebration a day early—on June 4 at 3 p.m. local time. Although specific details are limited, they’re giving away Red Bull and inviting walk-ins even without an advance pre-order.
Although public stock figures aren’t announced, GameStop is inviting everyone to come anyway. That it plans to have the stock for open sale is a positive indication.
Target: No Midnight Release, But Structured Access
Target won’t have a midnight opening, but don’t count them out. Customers are invited to queue in a special area outside the store before it opens. Ten minutes prior to opening, employees will hand out tickets. One console per customer, no excuses.
There are encouraging reports of inventory levels—some stores receiving 50 consoles and 60 bundles. They’ll be sold out within the first 30 minutes, however.
Walmart: Mixed Messages, but Perhaps Transparent
Walmart has had problems with pre-orders being canceled, but it may still be your best bet. Some customers are saying that Walmart’s website shows unit quantities per store—one store is receiving 125 Mario Kart World bundles.
However, this feature may only appear if you’ve had the console in your cart before. Some stores are only receiving nine units outside of pre-orders, while others expect around 77. Cancelations and no-shows could lead to more stock being released on launch day, so don’t give up hope.
Costco: Underrated but Worth a Try
Costco might be your secret weapon. There are no pre-orders here. If you’re a member, it’s fair game. Most stores are receiving around 48–50 units. The catch? Only one console per customer every seven days. This helps curb scalping and boosts your chances of getting one.
Lines are likely to be shorter at Costco, too—thanks to the membership requirement.
Plan Ahead, Be Smart
No matter where you are, think ahead. Arrive hours in advance, pack snacks, and wear something comfortable. Big city? Get there even earlier. Don’t hesitate to check out several stores. If the GameStop line resembles a concert crowd, your chances are slim—try somewhere else.
Conclusion
Nintendo is expecting to ship millions of Switch 2 consoles. Lastly, it is important to understand that release games such as Mario Kart World are thrilling, but the majority of them are improved versions of games you already might have. Relax, then. The FOMO will subside—and your console will arrive sooner or later.
