Nintendo has revealed the pricing for its upcoming Switch 2 console in light of potential tariffs from the US on Japanese products.
Gamers in the United States were eager to secure their pre-orders for the console on April 9, anticipating its release on June 5. However, due to political tensions between President Donald Trump and international entities, the company had to postpone.
Japan, where Nintendo originates, is facing a 24 percent tariff on its exports to the US. These tariffs are temporarily suspended for 90 days as negotiations between the two countries are underway.
Initially, the Nintendo Switch 2 was priced at $449.99. Additionally, games were rumored to start at $70, with Mario Kart World anticipated to cost $79.99.
Without any agreement from the trade discussions, there were fears that the Switch 2 might cost US consumers upwards of $560.
Fortunately, Nintendo has now clarified its plans.
In a statement released today (April 18), the company said: “Retail pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 will begin on April 24, 2025.
“At launch, the price for Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S. will remain as announced on April 2 at $449.99, and the Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World bundle will remain as announced at $499.99.
“Pricing for both physical and digital versions of Mario Kart World ($79.99) and Donkey Kong Bananza ($69.99) will also remain unchanged at launch.”
So, the positive news is that the prices for the games and the Switch console itself will stay the same.
However, there are price changes to consider in other areas.
The statement further explained: “However, Nintendo Switch 2 accessories will experience price adjustments from those announced on April 2 due to changes in market conditions. Other adjustments to the price of any Nintendo product are also possible in the future depending on market conditions.
“We apologize for the retail pre-order delay, and hope this reduces some of the uncertainty our customers may be experiencing. We thank our customers for their patience, and we share their excitement to experience Nintendo Switch 2 starting June 5, 2025.”
The 90-day tariff pause initiated by Trump is expected to conclude in early July. Let’s hope a trade agreement between Japan and the US is reached by then, not just for Yoshi’s sake but for American consumers as well!