Published on: May 19, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Holds Firm on Price Point Despite Tariff Complications, Says Doug Bowser
The impending launch of Nintendo Switch 2 is drawing significant attention from both industry watchers and consumers, especially in light of recent global economic developments.
Nintendo, known for its innovative gaming hardware and rich library of software, found itself at the center of headlines in April when pre-orders for the Switch 2 were abruptly postponed.
This move coincided with the White House's announcement of widespread tariff increases impacting several countries—some of which play a critical role in the manufacturing and supply chain of Nintendo platforms, including the Nintendo Switch 2.
Despite this international shake-up, Nintendo quickly reassured fans.
Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 officially reopened on April 24, much to the excitement of an eager gaming community.
Contrary to concerns that tariffs might drive prices higher, Nintendo maintained the much-anticipated $450/$500 MSRP for the new console, even as the prices of accessories saw incremental increases.
This decision stood out as a point of stability in an otherwise uncertain market.
When asked about the strategy behind this pricing, Doug Bowser, President of Nintendo of America, offered clarity in an interview with IGN.
Bowser emphasized Nintendo's priority on consumer trust, stating that setting and preserving the Switch 2 price point was essential—even in the face of further tariffs—so that customers could have confidence in their purchase expectations.
He highlighted that the situation remains dynamic, making it challenging to predict future changes, but reaffirmed Nintendo's dedication to making its hardware as accessible as possible within shifting market and economic landscapes.
"We considered it crucial to fix the price at its current level, even after additional tariffs were announced, to provide customers with reassurance they could rely on that pricing," Bowser told IGN.
He further added that Nintendo continues to assess the evolving situation, striving to adapt and keep the Nintendo Switch 2 hardware affordable for as many consumers as possible.
While Nintendo has left open the possibility of future pricing adjustments due to the volatile global market, for the present, the Nintendo Switch 2 remains obtainable for fans at its original MSRP.
With the console's official launch only weeks away, industry analysts are optimistic that the Switch 2 could potentially set new launch-day sales records, continuing the legacy of success following the original Nintendo Switch, which has surpassed 125 million sales worldwide.
As Nintendo continues to navigate global supply chain challenges and economic fluctuations, its proactive communication and consumer-first approach are resonating with its core audience.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to be another strong entry for the company, further cementing its reputation for quality and reliability in the ever-evolving gaming hardware space.
Sources: IGN
Nintendo Switch 2 Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch 2 Nintendo of America Switch Doug Bowser Bowser America IGN