The Nintendo Switch 2 will still cost $450 in the US, despite tariffs

Tech Crunch - Apr 18th, 2025

Nintendo has announced that pre-orders for the highly-anticipated Switch 2 will open in the United States on April 24, following a delay caused by the Trump administration's tariffs on international goods. Despite concerns that these tariffs would lead to a price increase for the console, Nintendo confirmed that the Switch 2 will maintain its original price of $449.99 and will launch on June 5 as scheduled. However, the company indicated that accessories for the Switch 2 will see a minor price increase due to 'changes in market conditions,' with items like the Pro Controller, Joy-Cons, and the new camera attachment seeing a $5 price hike. Nintendo also reassured fans that the prices of launch-day games like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza will remain unchanged.

The announcement comes amid a broader context of economic challenges and price adjustments within the gaming industry, as other companies like Sony have also been forced to raise prices on their consoles in various regions due to global economic fluctuations. While certain electronics such as smartphones and laptops are exempt from the tariffs, video game consoles are not, highlighting the unique challenges faced by companies like Nintendo. This situation underscores the ongoing impact of geopolitical policies on consumer electronics and the delicate balance companies must navigate to keep products accessible while managing increased costs.

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RATING

7.6

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article effectively communicates key information about the Nintendo Switch 2, including pricing, pre-order dates, and the impact of tariffs. It is well-written and timely, providing valuable insights for consumers and tech enthusiasts. However, the piece could benefit from a broader range of perspectives and more detailed exploration of the economic context. While it accurately reflects Nintendo's announcements, additional sources and expert opinions would enhance its credibility and depth. Overall, the article serves as a reliable source of information but has room for improvement in terms of balance and transparency.

Accuracy

The story accurately reports the key details regarding the Nintendo Switch 2, including the pre-order date, pricing, and reasons for delays. The claim that pre-orders will open on April 24 and the console will be priced at $449.99 aligns with official announcements. The article correctly states that accessory prices will increase due to market conditions, with specific price changes for the Pro Controller, Joy-Cons, and camera attachment. However, the attribution of the delay to the Trump administration's tariffs requires careful verification, as it may oversimplify the economic factors involved.

Balance

The article primarily focuses on Nintendo's perspective, including their pricing strategies and responses to economic conditions. It briefly mentions Sony's actions, providing some industry context. However, the piece lacks the viewpoints of consumers or industry analysts, which could offer additional insights into the impact of these price changes. The narrative seems balanced but could benefit from a broader range of perspectives to enhance its depth.

Clarity

The article is clearly written, with a logical flow that makes it easy to follow. It effectively communicates the main points, such as pricing details and delays. The language is straightforward, though the explanation of tariffs and their impact could be clearer to provide a more comprehensive understanding.

Source quality

The article appears to be based on official statements from Nintendo, which are credible sources for company-specific news. The inclusion of a press release suggests a high level of source reliability. However, the article does not cite any independent sources or external experts, which could add more credibility and context to the reporting.

Transparency

The article provides some transparency by referencing a Nintendo press release. However, it lacks details on how the information was gathered or whether any additional sources were consulted. The mention of tariffs and their impact on pricing is not deeply explored, leaving readers with questions about the broader economic context.