Nintendo has officially announced that pre-order demand for the upcoming Switch 2 console has vastly exceeded expectations in Japan. As a dedicated Nintendo fan and game journalist, this news is both thrilling and slightly stressful, particularly for those of us trying to secure one before launch.
Nintendo revealed that pre-orders for the Switch 2 have already reached 2.2 million units through the My Nintendo Store alone. That’s an incredible figure, and it’s forced the company to admit that not all orders will be fulfilled before the Switch 2’s release on June 5. To manage the situation, Nintendo is implementing a lottery system. If you’re not selected in the first round, you’ll automatically be entered into the next one. While it’s not the ideal solution, it’s their way of managing the overwhelming demand. Here’s the original post from Nintendo:
The Switch 2 will be available in two models. The standard Japan-only version is priced at ¥49,980 (approximately $350), while the more expensive multilingual version will cost ¥69,980 (around $500). The pricier model will be exclusive to the My Nintendo Store, meaning international fans hoping to import may have a chance – if they’re lucky.
For those who missed the initial preorder window, don’t worry just yet. Retailers across Japan will begin taking Switch 2 pre-orders on April 24. Be prepared, though, as these units will likely sell out fast whether digital or physical. It’s clear that Nintendo has another hit on its hands, and the overwhelming pre-order demand for the Switch 2 is completely understandable. The original Switch’s success came from its hybrid design and solid game library.
With the Switch 2 on the horizon, the excitement is palpable, and fans (myself included) are hoping this next-gen console delivers. Let’s just hope we can actually snag one.
