Nintendo has issued a critical update regarding the release-day delivery of the highly anticipated Switch 2, alerting U.S. fans that securing the console on its launch date, June 5, might be challenging. This follows a similar warning issued to customers in Japan, where the company acknowledged it would struggle to meet demand.
On their official website, Nintendo announced that those who registered interest in purchasing a Switch 2 through the My Nintendo Store might not receive their console by the release date. Invitation emails for purchasing may even arrive after the console's launch. However, Nintendo assures customers that they will confirm the shipping date upon purchase.
Nintendo expressed gratitude towards those who have already registered their interest, stating, "We're thrilled by the enthusiasm for Nintendo Switch 2! Due to the very high demand, we will be working diligently to fulfill orders as product becomes available, but delivery by June 5 is not guaranteed. Your invitation email may arrive after the Nintendo Switch 2 launch. We'll confirm your shipping date upon purchase."
In light of the high demand, Nintendo suggests that fans might have a better chance of obtaining a Switch 2 at launch by pre-ordering from third-party retailers. However, this advice comes amidst reports that Switch 2 pre-orders have already sold out at major outlets like GameStop following their recent availability. Nintendo encourages those still interested in buying from the My Nintendo Store to wait patiently for their invitation email.
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The difficulty fans faced in securing pre-orders on April 24, combined with Nintendo's warning, indicates that the Switch 2 will be highly sought after and challenging to obtain around its launch date.
Earlier this week, Nintendo's president Shuntaro Furukawa took to X / Twitter to inform Japanese customers that a significant number would miss out on direct pre-orders due to an overwhelming 2.2 million applications for the Switch 2 from the My Nintendo Store. Furukawa noted that this number far exceeded the company's expectations and the available stock for the launch date.
According to a FAQ posted to Nintendo’s website, the first batch of U.S. invitation emails will be sent starting May 8, 2025, with subsequent emails distributed periodically until purchasing is open to all. The initial invitations will be on a first-come, first-served basis, prioritizing those who meet specific criteria. Invitees will have 72 hours to complete their purchase once the email is sent.
Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order invitation priority requirements:
- You must have purchased any Nintendo Switch Online membership.
- You must have maintained any paid Nintendo Switch Online membership for at least 12 months.
- You must have opted in to share gameplay data and accumulated at least 50 hours of total gameplay.
Last week, Nintendo confirmed that Switch 2 pre-orders would begin in the U.S. on April 24, 2025, with the original price of $449.99 and the launch date of June 5 remaining unchanged. The Switch 2 + Mario Kart World bundle will also stay at $499.99, while the pricing for both the physical and digital versions of Mario Kart World ($79.99) and Donkey Kong Bananza ($69.99) will remain consistent at launch. However, Nintendo has raised the prices of Switch 2 accessories due to ongoing tariff issues.
Nintendo had initially planned to open pre-orders for the Switch 2 on April 9 but delayed them to assess the impact of tariffs and market conditions.
For those eager to pre-order a Nintendo Switch 2, along with accessories and games like the GameCube controller, it's advisable to follow our Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order guide for the latest updates and information. Additionally, you can learn more about how to increase your chances of getting a new Nintendo Switch 2 console on day one.