Published on: April 23, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Lottery Receives 2.2 Million Applications in Japan Amid Anticipated Launch Shortages
Nintendo’s much-anticipated next-generation console, the Nintendo Switch 2, is already setting records ahead of its official launch.
The company’s president, Shuntaro Furukawa, revealed in a recent announcement that approximately 2.2 million people in Japan alone have applied for the Switch 2 pre-order lottery via the My Nintendo Store, showcasing unprecedented demand for Nintendo’s latest hardware.
Unprecedented Demand for Nintendo Switch 2
The overwhelming response to the Nintendo Switch 2 launch lottery has highlighted the immense popularity of the upcoming console.
Furukawa confirmed that the total number of applicants for the lottery far surpasses Nintendo’s current launch-day supply capabilities.
The pre-order lottery application window opened shortly after the official unveiling of the Switch 2 on April 2, 2025, and quickly scaled up to millions of interested customers.
In a statement shared on official Nintendo channels, Furukawa reiterated the company’s dedication to meeting demand: "We have been preparing for the Nintendo Switch 2 launch by securing materials and ramping up production in advance," he said.
Despite these efforts, Furukawa acknowledged that the initial batch of consoles available through the My Nintendo Store on June 5th will not suffice to meet the soaring number of requests, and that many interested customers in Japan will not be selected when the first round of lottery winners is announced on April 24th, 2025.
Automatic Lottery Reentry and Retailer Pre-Orders
To provide a smoother experience for customers, Nintendo confirmed that individuals not chosen in the first lottery will be automatically entered into subsequent drawings, eliminating the need for them to reapply for future rounds.
Furukawa also noted that additional pre-orders and lottery sales will be conducted at major Japanese retailers and online stores beginning April 24th, expanding opportunities for fans eager to secure a Nintendo Switch 2 at launch.
Scaling Up Nintendo Switch 2 Production
Furukawa assured customers that Nintendo is "strengthening our production system" to meet the historic demand, and the company remains committed to "continuing to produce and ship a considerable number of Nintendo Switch 2 units moving forward." This ramp-up in manufacturing aims to minimize shortages and get the new hardware into as many hands as possible.
North American Pre-Orders Begin April 24th
As demand surges in Japan, Nintendo also outlined its plans for North American customers.
Switch 2 pre-orders in the US and Canada are scheduled to open on April 24th.
This follows a minor delay as Nintendo evaluated tariffs and production factors across its supply chain.
Prices for the base console and first-party games will remain at announced levels, though official Nintendo accessories have seen price increases in both regions.
Looking Ahead
The Nintendo Switch 2 is poised to continue Nintendo’s legacy of retail success, with robust interest reflected in pre-launch milestones and a proactive production strategy.
As Nintendo strengthens supply and navigates a complex global launch, fans can expect more updates through future Nintendo Direct presentations and the My Nintendo Store.
For now, however, strong demand means many players may need patience to get their hands on the next chapter of Nintendo hardware.
Nintendo Switch 2 Nintendo Switch Nintendo North America Japan Switch 2 Switch Shuntaro Furukawa America