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

Engadget - Apr 11th, 2025

Nintendo has announced an indefinite delay for pre-orders of the Nintendo Switch 2 in the United States and Canada. This decision comes in response to new tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, which have created uncertainty around pricing and availability. While UK residents can already pre-order the console, North American consumers will have to wait. Nintendo aims to assess the impact of these tariffs and evolving market conditions before opening pre-orders, though the launch date remains set for June 5, 2025. The company is considering ramping up production in Vietnam to meet the expected demand in the U.S., despite potential financial losses in the short term.

The tariffs, particularly the steep increase on Chinese imports, have disrupted Nintendo's plans, forcing a reconsideration of manufacturing and distribution strategies. Although the April 9 pre-order date for North America was initially announced, Nintendo is reevaluating this timeline. The pricing of the console, originally planned to start at $450, may also change due to these economic factors. This situation highlights the broader implications of international trade policies on the gaming industry and consumer electronics, as companies navigate complex market dynamics and production logistics.

Donald Trump Tariffs Nintendo Switch 2 Gaming Industry Pre Orders Us Canada Market

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RATING

7.2

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a well-structured and informative overview of the Nintendo Switch 2's upcoming release and the challenges posed by tariffs on pre-orders. It effectively uses credible sources to support its claims, though it could benefit from a broader range of perspectives to enhance balance and engagement. While the article is timely and relevant, its impact is somewhat limited by a focus on official statements without deeper analysis or exploration of broader implications. Overall, it serves as a reliable source of information for readers interested in the latest developments in the gaming industry, but it could enhance its engagement and impact by incorporating diverse viewpoints and exploring the wider economic context.

Accuracy

The article presents several factual claims that align with known information about the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, such as the release date of June 5, 2025, and the delay in pre-orders in the U.S. and Canada due to tariffs. However, some claims, like the specific impact of tariffs on pricing, remain speculative without confirmation from Nintendo. The mention of a 90-day tariff pause and its potential effects on manufacturing and pricing are consistent with the context provided but require further verification. The article accurately describes the console's features, such as the 7.9-inch LCD screen and improved Joy-Con controllers, which are consistent with available details.

Balance

The article primarily presents Nintendo's perspective on the pre-order delays and potential tariff impacts, with little exploration of other viewpoints, such as consumer reactions or insights from industry analysts. This focus on Nintendo's announcements creates a somewhat one-sided narrative. Including perspectives from retailers or consumers could provide a more balanced view of the situation and its implications. The article does not exhibit overt favoritism towards Nintendo but lacks a broader discussion on how these developments might affect the gaming industry or consumer market.

Clarity

The article is well-structured and uses clear, accessible language to convey information about the Nintendo Switch 2 and related developments. The logical flow of the article helps readers understand the sequence of events and the potential implications of tariffs on pre-orders. However, the inclusion of technical details about the console's features may overwhelm readers unfamiliar with gaming technology. Simplifying these descriptions or providing additional context could enhance comprehension for a broader audience.

Source quality

The article references credible sources such as Nintendo's official statements and reports from reputable outlets like Engadget and MobileSyrup. These sources enhance the reliability of the information presented. However, the article could benefit from a wider range of sources, including expert opinions or market analysts, to provide a more comprehensive view. The reliance on official statements ensures accuracy but may limit the depth of analysis due to the absence of independent verification or critique.

Transparency

The article provides a clear basis for its claims, primarily relying on official statements and reports from credible sources. However, it lacks transparency regarding the methodology used to assess the potential impact of tariffs on pricing and availability. The article could improve transparency by explaining how the information was gathered and any potential limitations in the data. Additionally, disclosing any affiliations or conflicts of interest, if present, would enhance the article's credibility.