Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders: Delays, prices, release date and everything else you need to know

Engadget - Apr 14th, 2025

Nintendo has announced an indefinite delay for the pre-orders of the Switch 2 console in the U.S. and Canada due to newly imposed tariffs by President Donald Trump. While the UK market can currently pre-order the console, Americans and Canadians will have to wait as the company evaluates the potential impact of these tariffs. Originally set to begin on April 9, 2025, the U.S. pre-orders have been indefinitely postponed, though the launch date of June 5, 2025, remains unchanged. Nintendo is reportedly assessing manufacturing options, including ramping up production in Vietnam, where tariffs have been paused at a lower rate.

The delay in pre-orders raises questions about the future pricing of the Switch 2 in North America, particularly with the proposed tariffs potentially altering its cost structure. Additionally, Nintendo's pre-order system prioritizes individuals with active Switch Online memberships and extensive gameplay hours. The Switch 2 features multiple upgrades, including a larger screen, enhanced Joy-Con controllers, and improved hardware specifications. However, the overall market impact and consumer response remain uncertain, especially with fluctuating accessory prices due to the tariff situation.

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RATING

6.2

Moderately Fair

Read with skepticism

The article provides a timely and relevant overview of the delay in Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders due to tariffs, capturing the interest of gamers and tech enthusiasts. It accurately reports key dates and product features, but lacks a diverse range of sources and perspectives, which affects its balance and source quality. While the article is clear and readable, it could benefit from greater transparency about the basis of its claims and more in-depth analysis of the broader economic implications. Its potential impact is limited by its focus on a specific product release rather than the wider context of international trade and consumer behavior. Overall, the article effectively informs readers about the current situation but could be strengthened by incorporating more diverse viewpoints and deeper exploration of the issues at hand.

Accuracy

The story accurately reports on the delay of Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders in the U.S. and Canada due to tariffs announced by President Donald Trump. It correctly states that the pre-order date was initially set for April 9, 2025, and the release date remains unchanged at June 5, 2025. However, some specific details, such as the exact impact of tariffs on pricing and production, require further verification. The article mentions a 90-day tariff pause, which aligns with current trade policies, but the potential price changes due to tariffs are speculative and not confirmed by official sources. The story also accurately describes the features of the Nintendo Switch 2, such as its larger screen and improved hardware, which are consistent with the information provided by Nintendo.

Balance

The article primarily presents the perspective of Nintendo and the potential impact of U.S. tariffs on its business decisions. There is a lack of viewpoints from consumers or industry analysts, which could provide a more balanced understanding of the situation. The article could benefit from including opinions or reactions from gamers or retail partners who might be affected by the delay and potential price changes. The focus on Nintendo's strategic response to tariffs suggests a slight bias towards the company's narrative without exploring broader economic or consumer implications.

Clarity

The article is generally clear and well-structured, with a logical flow of information. It effectively outlines the key points, such as the delay in pre-orders, the impact of tariffs, and the features of the Nintendo Switch 2. The language is straightforward, making it accessible to a broad audience. However, the inclusion of speculative elements, such as potential price changes, may confuse readers who are looking for definitive information. Simplifying these aspects or clearly distinguishing between confirmed facts and speculation would enhance clarity.

Source quality

The article references a statement from Nintendo provided to Engadget, which adds credibility to the report. However, it lacks a diverse range of sources, primarily relying on Nintendo's official communications and a report from MobileSyrup confirmed by Walmart of Canada. Including additional authoritative sources, such as trade experts or economists, could enhance the reliability of the information presented. The reliance on a limited number of sources may affect the impartiality of the reporting.

Transparency

The article provides some context for the delay in pre-orders, citing tariffs as the primary reason. However, it does not fully explain the methodology behind the claims, such as how tariffs specifically impact Nintendo's manufacturing and pricing strategies. There is limited disclosure of potential conflicts of interest, such as the relationship between Nintendo and its retail partners. Greater transparency about the sources of information and the factors influencing Nintendo's decisions would improve the article's trustworthiness.