Published on: April 05, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders Delayed in U.S.
Due to New Tariffs: Launch Date Remains Unchanged
Nintendo continues to capture headlines as it navigates evolving international trade dynamics.
During the recent Nintendo Direct, the gaming giant officially confirmed that the heavily anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 would see its U.S.
pre-order window open on April 9, 2025.
However, Nintendo has since communicated a significant update to this timeline after new tariffs were announced by the United States government.
Background Context on Nintendo Switch 2
Announced as the next evolution in Nintendo’s flagship hybrid hardware, the Nintendo Switch 2 builds upon the global success of its predecessor.
Developed and manufactured primarily in Vietnam, the new system promises upgraded performance, expanded features, and a robust launch lineup.
Nintendo had previously set April 9, 2025, as the pre-order start date in the U.S., ahead of its worldwide release scheduled for June 5, 2025.
With pre-debut excitement running high, industry veterans and gamers alike have closely monitored every update regarding the console’s rollout, pricing, and distribution.
Nintendo Reassesses Strategy Due to U.S.
Tariffs
Following the U.S.
government’s announcement of new tariffs affecting electronics imports from Vietnam and Japan, Nintendo released an official statement to key press outlets, including The Verge.
In clear, journalistic language, Nintendo stated that pre-orders in the United States would not begin as originally scheduled on April 9, 2025.
The company highlighted the necessity of "reassessing the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions" before proceeding.
While no updated pre-order date was given, Nintendo assured customers and retail partners that the Nintendo Switch 2 launch date will remain unchanged, set for June 5, 2025.
Financial Implications of New Tariffs
Nintendo’s manufacturing footprint for the Switch 2 spans Vietnam for the console and Japan for its game cartridges.
According to current trade policy, the new tariffs impose a 46% rate on consoles imported from Vietnam and 24% on cartridges from Japan.
These surcharges could significantly impact Nintendo’s cost structure and potentially affect retail pricing in the U.S.
The previously announced $449.99 price tag for the hardware, coupled with first-party launch titles priced at $69.99 and $79.99, already spotlights the Switch 2 as a premium offering within the console market landscape.
What’s Next for Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders?
Nintendo has committed to providing an updated pre-order timeline as soon as the company completes its tariff impact assessment and finalizes its U.S.
strategy.
At present, customers and industry observers can rest assured that, despite pre-order delays, the June 5, 2025, release date for the Nintendo Switch 2 stands firm.
As the situation develops, further updates will be shared across official Nintendo channels and press outlets.
For continued coverage on the Nintendo Switch 2, its release, and all future Nintendo Directs, stay tuned to this space.
Readers are encouraged to share their perspectives on the tariff impact and its implications for the next generation of Nintendo hardware across social media and discussion forums.
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