Mario Tennis Fever Demo Hits U.S. Retail Ahead of Nintendo Switch 2 Launch

Mario Tennis Fever Demo Debuts at U.S.

Retailers for Nintendo Switch 2 As anticipation builds for the release of Mario Tennis Fever on the formidable Nintendo Switch 2 platform, Nintendo has unveiled a special treat for fans: a hands-on demo available exclusively at select U.S.

retail locations.

This move comes as part of Nintendo’s ongoing commitment to providing players with in-person opportunities to sample their most anticipated titles prior to official launch. Starting this week, Mario Tennis Fever demo stations are accessible at participating Best Buy, GameStop, Target, and Walmart stores across the United States.

The announcement was made by Nintendo of America via its official website and verified social media channels, inviting players to experience the upcoming title firsthand on Nintendo Switch 2 demo kiosks.

While it may be challenging to locate available demo units at some GameStop locations, the precedent suggests that shoppers at Best Buy, Target, and Walmart should find the demo readily accessible. In a statement published through official channels, Nintendo encouraged fans with the following words: "A free demo of Mario Tennis Fever is now available to try at participating Best Buy, GameStop, Target, and Walmart stores." Links to a dedicated store locator help guide eager playtesters to their nearest demo-equipped outlet. This approach to demonstrating Nintendo Switch 2 software at retail represents a noteworthy shift from prior marketing strategies.

Unlike previous console generations—the Wii U and Nintendo Switch—where digital demos often became available on the Nintendo eShop ahead of or alongside retail access, Nintendo now prioritizes in-store demos for a select roster of upcoming titles.

Historically, downloadable demos are sometimes introduced to the eShop a few weeks to a month following a game’s retail release, so digital-first players can expect broader access post-launch. Mario Tennis Fever is set to officially launch for Nintendo Switch 2 on February 12, 2026.

Pre-orders are already live on major platforms such as Amazon, alongside ongoing promotions across authorized retailers.

As part of the build-up, Nintendo is ensuring that players can step onto the court, swing a racket, and get a taste of the action before the full version debuts. Nintendo continues to bolster the Mario franchise with related content, including recent announcements of Super Mario Galaxy-themed plushes reaching Japanese markets and fresh trailers celebrating beloved characters.

As the industry’s eyes focus on the upcoming Nintendo Direct events and the rollout of more demos and previews, Mario Tennis Fever stands poised to serve as one of the Switch 2’s flagship sports titles for 2026. For more information, keep an eye on Nintendo's official website and social media for updates on additional demo locations and the latest Mario titles arriving on the Nintendo eShop.