Introduction
The Nintendo Switch 2, the much-awaited follow-up to the hugely popular Nintendo Switch, has gamers buzzing with excitement. Set to launch on June 5, 2025, this new console promises better graphics, more power, and fresh games like Mario Kart World. But as of April 5, 2025, there’s a twist: Nintendo has delayed preorders in the United States due to new tariffs announced by President Donald Trump. This article includes everything about the Nintendo Switch 2 pre orders, how tariffs shake things up, and what it means for fans—all in simple, easy-to-read language. Let’s dive into this gaming news step by step.
The Nintendo Switch 2: A Quick Look
The Nintendo Switch 2 is the next big thing from Nintendo, a company famous for fun consoles like the original Switch, which has sold over 150 million units since 2017. Announced on April 2, 2025, the Switch 2 costs $449.99 on its own or $499.99 with a Mario Kart World bundle. It’s got a bigger 7.9-inch screen, 256GB of storage, and a new “C-button” for chatting in games. The console works as a handheld or hooks up to your TV, just like the first Switch, but with upgrades that make it faster and sharper. Fans were ready to preorder starting April 9 until tariffs changed the plan.
What Are Tariffs and Why Do They Matter?
Tariffs are taxes the government puts on goods coming into the country from places like Japan or Vietnam, where Nintendo makes its products. On April 2, 2025, President Trump announced new tariffs: 24% on Japan, 46% on Vietnam, and 54% on China. These taxes can raise the price of things like the Switch 2 if companies pass the cost to buyers. Nintendo delayed U.S. preorders to determine how these tariffs might hit their wallet—yours. For Google searches, try “Nintendo Switch 2 tariffs explained” or “Trump tariffs 2025 impact.”
Pre Orders Delayed: What Nintendo Said
Nintendo planned to start Switch two preorders in the U.S. on April 9, 2025, but on April 4, they hit pause. The company said, “Preorders for Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S. will not start April 9, 2025, to assess the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions. Nintendo will update the timing at a later date. The launch date of June 5, 2025, is unchanged.” It means the console will still arrive on time, but U.S. fans can’t lock in their orders yet. Other countries like the UK and Canada are sticking to their pre order schedules for now.
Why the Delay Happened Now
The timing couldn’t be trickier. Nintendo unveiled the Switch 2 on the same day Trump dropped his tariff bombshell—April 2, 2025. Japan, where Nintendo is based, and Vietnam, where some Switch parts are made, got hit with big tax hikes. Experts think Nintendo expected some tariffs, but not this high. Analyst Mat Piscatella from Circana told WIRED, “The tariffs came in much higher with a wider reach than anticipated.” Nintendo needs time to decide whether to raise prices or eat the extra costs—search “Nintendo Switch 2 pre order delay reason” or “Trump tariffs Nintendo impact” for more.
How Tariffs Could Change the Price
The Switch 2’s $449.99 price tag already surprised some fans—$150 more than the original Switch’s $299.99 launch price. If Nintendo passes on the entire 24% tariff from Japan, the console could jump to about $558. Add taxes, and it might be near $600. The Vietnam tariff of 46% could push it even higher if key parts come from there. The Mario Kart World bundle, now $499.99, might climb to $620 or more. Nintendo hasn’t said if prices will change, but the delay suggests they’re worried. Google “Nintendo Switch 2 price increase” or “Switch two tariff cost” to track updates.
Where the Switch 2 Is Made
Nintendo builds its consoles in Asia. The original Switch mainly came from China, but in 2019, they shifted some production to Vietnam to dodge U.S.-China trade taxes. The Switch 2 likely follows this mix, with parts from Japan and Vietnam. Trump’s new tariffs hit all these spots hard—24% on Japan, 46% on Vietnam, and 54% on China. It puts Nintendo in a tough spot, as moving factories takes time and money. Search “Nintendo Switch 2 manufacturing” or “Switch two production countries.”
What Fans Are Saying
Gamers are feeling the heat. On X, some vented frustration: “Tariffs just killed preorders for the Switch 2,” one user posted. Others worry about prices: “This can raise the price by 50%. The consumer always pays the tariffs!” But not everyone’s mad—some see it as a hiccup, not a disaster. The delay only affects U.S. preorders, so fans elsewhere are still set for April 9. The buzz shows how much people want this console. Look up “Nintendo Switch 2 fan reactions” or “Switch two tariffs X posts” to join the talk.
The Original Preorder Plan
Before the delay, Nintendo had a straightforward pre order setup. Starting April 9, 2025, U.S. stores like Best Buy, Walmart, GameStop, Target, and the Nintendo Store were ready to take orders. The Nintendo Store even had a special rule: only fans with 12 months of Switch Online and 50 hours of play could preorder there. Retailers promised delivery by June 5, with Walmart aiming for 9 AM on launch day. A collectable coin was rumoured for early birds. Now, U.S. fans wait for a new date. Search “Nintendo Switch 2 pre order original plan” or “Switch two pre order retailers.”
How Other Countries Are Doing
The tariff mess is U.S.-specific so far. In Canada, the UK, Europe, and Australia, preorders are still on for April 9, 2025. Nintendo of Canada confirmed to CBC that their schedule hasn’t budged. The Switch 2 costs less in Japan—about USD 320—due to currency rates, and their pre orders are safe too. This gap might tempt U.S. fans to import, though shipping and customs could erase savings. Google “Nintendo Switch 2 international preorders” or “Switch 2 Canada preorder status” for updates.
The Launch Date Stays Firm
Despite the preorder snag, Nintendo insists that Switch 2 will hit shelves worldwide on June 5, 2025. That’s good news for fans eager to play Mario Kart World, Metroid Prime 4, and other launch titles. The delay only affects when U.S. buyers can reserve one, not when they’ll get it. Retailers already list the console and accessories online, hinting at significant demand. Search “Nintendo Switch 2 launch date” or “Switch June 2 5 release” to plan.
Games and Bundles at Launch
The Switch 2 launches with Mario Kart World, a new racing game priced at $79.99 alone or bundled with the console for $499.99. It’s a step up from the usual $69.99 for big Nintendo games, sparking some grumbles. Other titles like Metroid Prime 4 will work on both Switch models, while some exclusives need the Switch 2’s power. Tariffs might bump game prices, too, mainly physical copies from Japan. Look up “Nintendo Switch 2 launch games” or “Mario Kart World bundle price” for the lineup.
What Experts Think
Analysts are watching closely. Daniel Ahmad from Niko Partners told IGN that Nintendo might have misjudged tariff levels, especially after moving production to Vietnam. The Entertainment Software Association warned that tariffs, not just Nintendo, could hurt the gaming industry. Prices for PlayStation, Xbox, and PC parts might rise too. Mat Piscatella added, “Every business with international supply chains will rethink U.S. pricing.” Search “Nintendo Switch 2 tariff expert opinions” or “gaming industry tariff impact” for insights.
Could Prices Go Up?
Nintendo hasn’t confirmed a price hike, but it’s possible. If they absorb the tariffs, profits take a hit. If they pass them on, fans pay more. The Switch 2’s $449.99 base price already upset some who hoped for $399.99. A 24% tariff could add $108, and 46% could mean $206 extra. Bundles and games might follow suit. The delay gives Nintendo time to crunch numbers. Google “Nintendo Switch 2 price hike possibility” or “Switch two tariff price predictions” to stay informed.
How Retailers Are Handling It
U.S. retailers like GameStop and Best Buy were gearing up for April 9. GameStop tweeted they’d update fans as soon as Nintendo shares a new date. Store pages for the Switch 2 and Mario Kart World bundle are live, but the preorder buttons are off for now. Outside the U.S., preorders roll on as planned. This split could mean fewer consoles for the U.S. at launch if stock shifts elsewhere. Search “Nintendo Switch 2 retailer response” or “Switch two preorder store updates” for the latest.
The Bigger Picture for Gaming
Tariffs don’t stop at Nintendo. Sony and Microsoft, who make PlayStation and Xbox in Asia, face the same taxes. PC parts from China or Vietnam could cost more, too. The Consumer Technology Association estimated a 40% price jump for consoles if tariffs stick. It could make 2025 a pricey year for gamers. Look up “gaming tariffs 2025” or “Trump tariffs video game impact” to see the ripple effect.
What Nintendo Might Do Next
Nintendo has options. They could raise prices, cut costs elsewhere, or negotiate with suppliers. Moving more production out of tariff zones like Vietnam takes years, so that’s unlikely soon. They might also push digital sales, which dodge physical import taxes. The company’s silence on a new pre order date keeps fans guessing. Search “Nintendo Switch 2 tariff strategy” or “Switch two preorder next steps” for speculation.
Advice for Fans Waiting
If you’re in the U.S., sit tight. Sign up for alerts at Best Buy, Walmart, or Nintendo’s site to catch the new preorder window. Outside the U.S., preorder on April 9 as planned—stock might sell out fast. Importing from Japan or Canada could work, but watch for extra fees. The June 5 launch is still on, so you’ll play soon enough. Google “Nintendo Switch 2 preorder tips” or “Switch two how to pre order” for help.
Why This Matters
The Switch 2 preorder delay shows how global trade affects everyday fun. Tariffs that boost U.S. jobs could make gaming pricier, hitting fans’ wallets. Nintendo’s quick reaction—pausing preorders—proves they’re serious about getting this right. It’s a big moment for the company and its millions of players. Search “Nintendo Switch 2 tariff importance” or “Switch two preorder delay significance” to dig deeper.
Final Thoughts
The Nintendo Switch 2 is coming June 5, 2025, but U.S. preorders are on hold thanks to Trump’s tariffs. At $449.99, it’s already a jump from the original, and taxes on Japan and Vietnam might push it higher. Nintendo’s figuring out their next move while fans wait for a new pre order date. It’s a bumpy start, but the excitement for this console—and its games—remains sky-high. Stay tuned for updates, and get ready to craft your adventure!
References
- IGN, “Nintendo Delays Switch 2 Pre Order Date in the U.S. to Assess Impact of Trump’s Tariffs” (April 4, 2025)
- CNBC, “Nintendo delays Switch two pre orders because of Trump tariffs” (April 4, 2025)
- WIRED, “Nintendo Delays Switch 2 Pre Orders Thanks to Trump’s Tariffs” (April 4, 2025)
- Nintendo Official Statement, provided to Polygon (April 4, 2025)