The Nintendo Switch 2 has hit its first speed bump ahead of launch—not in production or development, but in preorder timing. Originally set to begin on April 9, Nintendo has delayed Switch 2 preorders in the U.S. due to evolving trade conditions, specifically to evaluate the impact of newly announced tariffs introduced by President Donald Trump.
A screenshot from the trailer to Mario Kart World – YouTube, Nintendo of America
In a statement provided to The Verge, Nintendo spokesperson Eddie Garcia explained: “Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S. will not start April 9, 2025 in order to assess the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions. Nintendo will update timing at a later date.”
Importantly, the official launch date of June 5, 2025 remains unchanged, and the company reaffirmed its commitment to that schedule.
Nintendo Switch 2 Delayed for Strategic Review
The delay in preorders follows President Trump’s announcement of a new wave of tariffs intended to bolster American manufacturing and ensure fairer trade practices. Electronics and gaming hardware are among the categories companies are reviewing in light of these developments.
President Donald Trump speaks at CPAC in 2017 – YouTube, The New York Times
While the Nintendo Switch 2 delayed preorder window may come as a surprise to some, the move is a strategic pause rather than a product issue. Nintendo is evaluating potential supply chain and pricing implications before opening its next-gen console for reservation.
At present, the Switch 2 is priced at $449.99, with a $499.99 bundle that includes Mario Kart World. The standalone game will retail for $79.99, marking a premium price point compared to previous Mario Kart entries. Other titles like Donkey Kong Bananza will retail for $69.99.
A Prudent Approach in a Changing Market
While Nintendo had initially planned to start general preorders for the Switch 2 on April 9 through various retailers, the company also intended to offer direct preorder invitations via its My Nintendo Store starting May 8, prioritizing loyal customers with specific criteria. However, due to newly announced tariffs, Nintendo has postponed these preorder dates to assess the potential impact on market conditions. The official launch date of June 5, 2025, remains unchanged.
Mario in a screenshot from the trailer to Mario Kart World – YouTube, Nintendo of America
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This delay mirrors moves from other companies adjusting to changing trade policies. Industry players like PSA (a leading card grading company) and tabletop publisher Steve Jackson Games are also making internal shifts in response to the global trade landscape. Nintendo’s approach reflects caution as it looks to navigate potential impacts from international manufacturing costs.
Launch Still on Track
Despite the delayed preorder start, the June 5 Nintendo Switch 2 launch date remains firm. That gives the company time to clarify preorder timing while keeping fans and retail partners aligned for the actual release.
A screenshot from the trailer to Mario Kart World – YouTube, Nintendo of America
In the meantime, anticipation for the Switch 2 continues to grow, thanks to its array of upgraded features: a 7.9-inch 1080p display, 256GB of storage, new GameChat functionality, and a “C” button built into the redesigned JoyCons. A game lineup—including Mario Kart World, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment, and DuskBloods—is fueling excitement despite the temporary preorder hold.
What to Expect Next
Nintendo says it will announce a new preorder start date soon, pending a full review of the trade environment. The company’s priority appears to be ensuring stability for U.S. consumers before committing to distribution or promotional campaigns that may be affected by shifting tariff regulations.
The joycons for the Nintendo Switch 2 – YouTube, Super Nintendo Fan
For now, those eager to reserve their Switch 2 will need to wait a little longer—but with confidence that launch day is still on course.
What’s your reaction to the Nintendo Switch 2 preorders being delayed? Sound off in the comments and let us know!
Trump announced this months ago. This is just political theater.
Yep. They’re testing to see how much more they can charge for this before customers tell them to eff off. Like its current price isn’t way too high.
Agreed. Either they’re using this to gage how much more they can up the price or they’re hoping that the tariffs come down quick (and depending they might if negotiations go well) and then lower the price and pretend like they wanted to sell at a lower price from the start to placate the people (rightfully) complaining.
A Steam Deck is a better deal than this. It’s less expensive, supports games going back thirty years, and has a truly massive catalog. It’s also portable, so Nintendo is really dropping a grenade on their foot. Portable is the only thing they really have going for them anymore since they gave up on home consoles. They’re sticking with an outdated business model and relying on brand loyalty and it’s going to bite them in the ass.