It didn’t take long. As soon as the clock struck midnight on April 24, eager gamers rushed online to secure their Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders, and within minutes, major retailers were flashing those dreaded words: Sold Out.
If you’ve been refreshing pages at Walmart, Target, or Best Buy, you already know the struggle. The demand for Nintendo’s next-gen console has skyrocketed beyond expectations. But don’t lose hope—there’s still a chance to get your hands on one before launch day.
Why Nintendo Switch 2 Demand Is So High
Let’s be honest—Nintendo has mastered the art of building hype. The Switch 2 isn’t just a minor upgrade; it promises enhanced performance, innovative features, and a fresh lineup of games. Combine that with Nintendo’s loyal fanbase and the nostalgia factor, and it’s no surprise that Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders sold out so quickly.
When Did Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders Go Live?
After a brief delay from the original early April date, pre-orders finally launched in the U.S. at 12 a.m. ET on April 24. The floodgates opened—and almost immediately closed—as stock vanished in record time.
Which Retailers Sold Out First?
Walmart, Target, and Best Buy were the first to activate pre-orders. Within hours (or minutes, for some models), their stock was depleted. GameStop offered a later drop at 11 a.m. ET, but that too didn’t last long.
The Mario Kart World Bundle: A Fast Sell-Out
Bundles always attract attention, and the Mario Kart World Bundle was no exception. Priced at $499, it offered a slight discount compared to buying the game and console separately. Unsurprisingly, it was one of the first options to disappear from shelves—both digital and physical.
How Much Does the Nintendo Switch 2 Cost?
The standard Nintendo Switch 2 retails at $449, while bundles and accessories push the price higher. Given the features promised, many consider it a fair price—but only if you can actually secure one.
Accessories and Games Also Selling Out
It’s not just the console. The Switch 2 Pro Controller, the Camera accessory, and launch titles are also flying off the shelves. For those aiming for the full experience on day one, the race to pre-order extends far beyond just the hardware.
Amazon’s Missing Pre-Order Page
Curiously, Amazon US has yet to launch its Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order page. Historically, Amazon has favored its Prime members during high-demand launches, and it’s unclear if they’re holding back stock or planning an invitation-only system, similar to what they did in the UK.
Is There Still a Chance to Pre-Order Nintendo Switch 2?
If you’re reading this thinking you missed out entirely—don’t panic just yet. Retailers often release stock in waves, and canceled orders can lead to brief restocks. Staying vigilant over the next few days could pay off.
Tips to Secure a Nintendo Switch 2 Before Launch
-
Follow stock trackers on social media
-
Sign up for retailer alerts
-
Prioritize smaller retailers—big chains aren’t your only option
-
If Amazon opens invites, apply immediately
-
Be online during off-peak hours—some drops happen late at night
My Opinion on the Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Order Chaos
Honestly? I expected this, but it’s still frustrating. After years of tracking console launches, it’s clear that companies still underestimate demand—or perhaps they intentionally limit stock to fuel hype. Either way, I believe Nintendo could have managed this better, especially given the lessons from PS5 and Xbox Series launches.
How This Compares to Previous Console Launches
The Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders sold out even faster than the original Switch’s launch. It’s reminiscent of the PS5 frenzy, where bots and scalpers made life miserable for genuine gamers.
Why Retailers Weren’t Ready for the Demand
Despite knowing how anticipated this console was, many retailer websites crashed or lagged. It raises questions about whether enough was done to prepare for the inevitable traffic surge.
Will There Be More Nintendo Switch 2 Stock Before June?
Most likely, yes. Historically, Nintendo releases additional waves of stock leading up to launch day. However, expect those to disappear quickly as well.
What to Expect on Launch Day
If you haven’t pre-ordered by June 5, walking into a store and finding a Switch 2 on shelves will be unlikely. Your best bet will be online restocks or bundles that might deter scalpers.
Should You Pay Scalper Prices?
Short answer: No. While tempting, paying double or triple the retail price only encourages this behavior. Patience will save you hundreds of dollars.
Alternatives If You Miss the Pre-Order
Consider:
-
Waiting for post-launch restocks
-
Exploring bundle deals
-
Checking verified marketplaces with buyer protection
How the UK Pre-Orders Are Being Handled
In the UK, Amazon adopted an invitation-only system, which, while frustrating for some, helped reduce bot activity. Other UK retailers followed a more traditional first-come, first-served approach.
Will Amazon Use an Invitation System in the US?
It’s possible. Given their past strategies, Amazon could implement invites to control distribution and reward Prime members.
What Makes Nintendo Switch 2 So Special?
Beyond being the successor to a wildly successful console, the Switch 2 boasts upgraded hardware, enhanced graphics, and exclusive titles that have fans eager to upgrade.
Key Features Driving the Hype
-
Improved performance
-
New exclusive games
-
Enhanced online features
-
Better accessory integration
The Risk of Waiting for Restocks
While waiting is the smart financial move, it’s a gamble. There’s no guarantee when significant stock will return, especially if demand stays this high.
How to Track Nintendo Switch 2 Restocks Efficiently
Use:
-
Dedicated stock alert websites
-
Twitter accounts that monitor restocks
-
Retailer newsletters
Speed is everything when it comes to snagging restocks.
Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders Sold Out
The Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders sold out faster than anyone hoped, but not all is lost. With careful tracking, a bit of patience, and avoiding scalper traps, you can still secure your console before or shortly after launch. The hype is real—and so is the challenge of getting one.
FAQs
When did Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders start?
April 24, 2025, at 12 a.m. ET in the US.
How much does the Nintendo Switch 2 cost?
$449 for the standard console, $499 for the Mario Kart World bundle.
Is Amazon offering Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders?
Not yet. Amazon US has not launched a pre-order page.
Will there be more stock before launch day?
Yes, but expect limited quantities and fast sellouts.
Should I buy from scalpers?
No. It’s better to wait for official restocks.
What is the release date for Nintendo Switch 2?
June 5, 2025.