Nintendo Switch 2 Pricing in Nordic Countries Draws Criticism Amid High Distributor Markups

Nintendo Switch 2 Pricing in Nordic Countries Draws Criticism Amid High Distributor Markups The anticipation surrounding Nintendo Switch 2 has been tempered by notable concerns over its pricing structure, particularly in the Nordic countries.

While the Nintendo Direct event generated enthusiasm for the upcoming console, many fans were met with disappointment upon discovering significantly higher prices in regions such as Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Denmark.

The unexpected cost increases—driven by exclusive distributor Bergsala AB and regional retail pricing—have brought widespread attention and frustration to Nintendo’s loyal Nordic community. Bergsala AB has managed exclusive distribution rights for Nintendo products across the Nordic countries since the early 1980s, long before the establishment of Nintendo of Europe.

Over the years, the company has faced ongoing criticism for its pricing policies, which often see both Nintendo hardware and software sold at a premium compared to other European markets.

The introduction of the Nintendo Switch 2 has only reinforced these concerns, highlighting longstanding disparities in pricing within the region. Shortly following the recent Nintendo Direct, potential buyers in the Nordics noted on platforms like Reddit that Switch 2 pre-orders were set at alarmingly high prices—often around €100 more than what gamers in other parts of Europe would pay.

The listing prices, verified across local retailers, are approximately €589 in Finland (~£510/$652), 6,695 NOK in Norway (~£480/$610), 4199 DKK in Denmark (~£485/$620), and 6800 SEK in Sweden (~£530/$680).

These figures have sparked widespread debate, with many pointing out that the so-called "Bergsala tax" has become a persistent source of frustration.

Although some online posts have overestimated currency conversions, the consensus is clear: buying a Nintendo Switch 2 in the Nordics currently involves a substantial markup. While importing consoles from online retailers like Amazon can provide a workaround for consumers in Denmark, Sweden, and Finland, this solution brings its own challenges, including stock limitations and concerns regarding warranty validity.

As a result, some Nordic gamers have even discussed flying to other European countries, such as Germany, where the Nintendo Switch 2 is more affordable, claiming that the combined cost of travel and the console is still less than purchasing it locally.

One user observed, paraphrased, that a round-trip flight to Germany plus the console cost would be cheaper than buying the system in their home country, while others joked about turning console importation into a makeshift business. It’s important to note that Bergsala AB does not set fixed retail prices for Nintendo products; instead, local Nordic retailers retain the freedom to determine their own prices.

However, the opaque nature of distributor markups, coupled with historically higher prices, has left many customers questioning how much of the cost is added before products even reach store shelves.

This murky pricing practice stands out even more in the current economic climate, where tariffs and inflation add further pressure on consumer spending. Earlier this week, Bill Trinen of Nintendo of America addressed ongoing pricing concerns—specifically in relation to Mario Kart World—explaining that the company assesses each game's price based on its content and perceived value.

However, for many Nordic fans, those assurances offer little comfort in the face of such pronounced price differences at the hardware level. With the Switch 2’s global launch approaching, questions remain over whether pricing in the Nordic region will adjust in response to consumer feedback or sales performance.

For now, the elevated cost underscores a growing sense of disparity for Nintendo fans in Scandinavia, even as excitement for the next-generation console continues to build.

Nintendo Switch 2 Nintendo Bergsala AB Switch 2 Europe Switch Nintendo Switch