Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Hype: Fans Begin Camping Out Weeks Ahead of Release

With anticipation at a fever pitch for the Nintendo Switch 2, some of Nintendo’s most dedicated fans are already camping out at the flagship Nintendo New York store and the newly-opening Nintendo San Francisco location—nearly two months before the upcoming console officially hits the market in June 2025. The forthcoming Nintendo Switch 2, set to launch in June 2025, is the highly awaited successor to the original Nintendo Switch, which debuted in 2017 and has since become one of the best-selling gaming platforms worldwide.

As excitement builds ahead of the system’s release, fans are already demonstrating their enthusiasm by securing their spots at brick-and-mortar launch events—echoing the community spirit seen during major past releases on Nintendo hardware. Among the passionate attendees is YouTuber and self-described superfan 'ChickenDog.' Leading the line at Nintendo’s New York store, ChickenDog is turning the wait for the Nintendo Switch 2 into a public event by documenting his camping experience on YouTube.

In his introduction to the journey, ChickenDog expressed his eagerness to be the first in line for the next-generation console and announced plans to camp out for two months, inviting viewers to follow his daily blog updates throughout his wait.

He also noted that, while he’s giving up some of the comforts of home, support from a dedicated crew and occasional access to a hotel and Airbnb will help him manage the experience. While long launch-day lines have long been a tradition for major Nintendo hardware launches at the New York store, ChickenDog’s extended campout notably surpasses previous efforts made by other well-known Nintendo superfans.

According to reports, he’s more than doubling the lengths previously undertaken by influencers such as Alex CND and TriForce Johnson, further fueling excitement and drawing attention to the Switch 2’s impending debut. The phenomenon isn’t limited to the East Coast.

Another Nintendo enthusiast, known online as 'Super Café,' has committed to holding a solo line at the new Nintendo San Francisco store for the June launch and the venue’s grand opening on May 15th.

In his first video chronicling the journey, Super Café described the experience as largely a solo mission and humorously mentioned his willingness to forego a few showers if necessary to stay in line.

Like ChickenDog, he invites followers to join along via his YouTube channel. As launch day approaches, Nintendo is amplifying excitement further with events like the Switch 2 Experience, where fans at select locations—including the New York store—can try out the Nintendo Switch 2 before its official release.

All eyes are now on June 2025, when the Switch 2 will officially join the Nintendo eShop lineup following months of anticipation. For longtime Nintendo enthusiasts, camping out for new console launches is a cherished tradition, underscoring the enduring community and excitement that surround each major release.

With fans already lining up, the Nintendo Switch 2 is poised for yet another successful debut for the Kyoto-based gaming giant.

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