Switch 2 US Pre-Orders Pushed by Nintendo Over Tariffs

Nintendo has unexpectedly postponed Switch 2 pre-orders in the U.S., citing the effects of Trump-era tariffs and shifting market dynamics.

Originally scheduled for April 9, the U.S. pre-order launch has been delayed indefinitely, though Nintendo confirms the Switch 2's June 5, 2025 release remains unchanged.

In a statement provided to IGN, Nintendo explained:

The U.S. pre-order window for Nintendo Switch 2 will not open on April 9, 2025 as we evaluate tariff implications and evolving market conditions. Updated timing will be announced later. The June 5, 2025 launch date remains unaffected.

This delay only affects the U.S. market; regions like the UK maintain their original pre-order schedule.

The Switch 2 launches at $449.99, with a $499.99 Mario Kart World bundle option. Mario Kart World retails separately for $79.99.

Nintendo Switch 2 package includes:

Switch 2 console
Pair of Joy-Con 2 controllers
Joy-Con 2 Grip
Controller straps
Switch 2 Dock
Ultra High-Speed HDMI cable
AC adapter
USB-C charging cable

Today's announcement suggests Nintendo might adjust Switch 2 pricing amidst growing consumer frustration with its next-gen pricing strategy.

Former Nintendo PR executives Kit Ellis and Krysta Yang criticized Nintendo's pricing reveal during their YouTube show, particularly the $449.99 console and $79.99 game price points following the recent Nintendo Direct.

"While I don't want to exaggerate, this feels like a critical moment for Nintendo," Ellis remarked.

U.S. markets plunged today as China retaliated against Trump's tariffs with a 34% tax on American goods, responding to its own 54% import tax.

Before markets opened, Trump claimed "China overreacted" and vowed his trade policies would remain unchanged.

The escalating trade war creates global economic instability, with analysts predicting the end of cheap imports for American consumers as tariffs drive inflation.

Tariffs function as import taxes that typically get passed to consumers rather than absorbed by manufacturers. For gamers, this likely means higher prices across tech and gaming products.

Niko Partners analyst Daniel Ahmad noted Nintendo's Vietnamese manufacturing shift—originally intended to circumvent Chinese tariffs—may prove insufficient as Vietnam now faces higher-than-expected reciprocal tariffs.

"Nintendo's Vietnamese production strategy may not shield them from global tariff impacts," Ahmad explained. "These unexpected tariff hikes could force Nintendo to reconsider pricing worldwide."

For complete coverage, see our Switch 2 Nintendo Direct announcements summary and expert reactions to the Switch 2 pricing and $80 Mario Kart World.

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