While I’m not surprised that the Nintendo Swith 2 is going up in price, this has triggered a bit of a customer backlash. Especially hearing that Mario Kart World is going to be $80! That’s heading into PS5 gaming prices. I’m still getting it since just the Donkey Kong Bananza graphics and gameplay are so worth it.

Tariffs

The Donald Trump tariffs are definitely going to complicate things as it’s already messed up the pre-order dates. These events could drive Nintendo to offer better combo sales during the holiday season. But with no competition from Sony or Microsoft, don’t count on it.

The recent Nintendo Direct provided a wealth of information about the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, answering many burning questions about its launch lineup and release date. Among the most discussed topics were the prices for the system, games, and accessories. The Nintendo Switch 2 itself is priced at $449.99 USD, while a bundle including Mario Kart World costs $499.99. The standalone price for Mario Kart World is $79.99, making it the most expensive AAA game without belonging to a Deluxe Edition. Other notable prices include Donkey Kong Bananza at $69.99, the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller at $79.99, and the Joy-Con 2 Controller pair at $89.99.

Breakdown

So here’s the full layout for prices including all the accessories that always add on a few hundred dollars:

• Nintendo Switch 2 by itself: $449.99 USD

• Nintendo Switch 2 with Mario Kart World bundled in: $499.99

• Mario Kart World by itself: $79.99

• Donkey Kong Bananza: $69.99

• Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller: $79.99

• Nintendo Switch 2 Camera: $49.99

• Joy-Con 2 Controller pair: $89.99

• Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip: $34.99

• Joy-Con 2 Strap: $12.99

• Joy-Con 2 Wheel pair: $19.99

• Nintendo Switch 2 Dock Set: $109.99

• Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case and Screen Protector: $34.99

• Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case: $79.99

• Nintendo Switch 2 AC Adapter: $29.99

The $450 price point for the Nintendo Switch 2 is not far off from the $400 predicted by analysts earlier this year. The higher-than-expected price can be attributed to various factors such as tariffs, manufacturing costs, and competition. Joost van Dreunen, NYU Stern professor, describes the pricing as a "strategic balancing act" reflecting increased manufacturing costs and potential trade barriers. Piers Harding-Rolls of Ampere Analysis suggests that the uncertainty on import tariffs may have influenced the final price. Dr. Serkan Toto, CEO of Kantan Games, adds that the current inflationary climate and the $700 price tag of the PlayStation 5 Pro last year also played a role.

Different Pricing

Interestingly, the pricing strategy for the Nintendo Switch 2 differs between Japan and the United States. In Japan, the system is available in two models: a Japanese-language system priced at 49,980 yen ($333.22) and a multi-language system priced at 69,980 yen ($466.56). This discrepancy is due to Nintendo's need to navigate region-specific pricing and avoid grey imports. The cheaper Japanese-language model helps maintain Nintendo's position in Japan, while the more expensive multi-language model protects the Japanese market from grey imports.

Mario Kart World Anxiety

The $80 price tag for Mario Kart World has raised concerns among Nintendo fans about the rapidly rising prices of games. Analysts suggest that this pricing is a conservative move by Nintendo given the current chaotic market conditions. McWhirter believes that Nintendo is testing the waters on what the market will tolerate, using its most successful game series as a trial run. Van Dreunen adds that the timing aligns with the broader industry's gradual price increases for premium content. The higher cost for Mario Kart World may also be mitigating tariffs, manufacturing costs, and the slow build of the console's audience.

Analysts Say No Problem

Despite the shock of the pricing, analysts agree that it will not affect sales of the console, at least not initially. Higher-income households and super enthusiasts are expected to purchase the Switch 2 at launch, with the true test coming in year two as supply becomes more readily available. McWhirter's forecast indicates that the Nintendo Switch 2 will be outpaced in sales by the original Switch by 6 million units by the end of 2028. Van Dreunen projects 12-15 million units sold within the first 12 months, driven by backward compatibility. Toto, however, is concerned about the higher game prices being a harder sell for families with tighter budgets.

Employee Backlash

The Nintendo Switch 2 reveal has also prompted backlash from former Nintendo PR managers, who criticized the company for its lack of transparency regarding pricing. The $449.99 price tag and the cost of certain games were not shared during the livestream, leading to frustration among consumers. Additionally, the Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour, a tutorial for the system that comes at a price, has disappointed many. Despite the controversy, the specs of the Nintendo Switch 2 have impressed many, with features such as a nearly 8-inch screen, improved visuals, 256GB of internal storage, and newly designed Joy-Cons.

Now is the perfect time for getting a great deal on the Nintendo Switch OLED since not everyone is ready to jump on the new console bandwagon right away. When a new console is about to hit is when you get the best deals and there’s a great one that includes Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Bundle with 3 months on Nintendo Switch Online membership. Plus you also get a 128 GB MicroSD Card. Check out this deal here as it’s one of the best out there and the OLED version looks amazing on 4K and 8K Oled tvs.

The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, with a price tag of $449. This announcement came just hours before President Trump declared sweeping tariffs on all imports to the United States, leading many gamers to blame the rising prices on the administration's ongoing trade war. Despite the hefty price, the Nintendo Switch 2 is narrowing the power gap with its competitors, boasting graphical and computational abilities that far outstrip the original Switch. This allows Nintendo to pursue grander ambitions, as seen by the array of games showcased at a press event in New York City.

Mario Kart World

One of the standout titles is Mario Kart World, which breaks with tradition and resembles open-world racing games like the Forza Horizon series. The game features a vast interconnected landscape, ranging from snowy peaks to sandy beaches, and whimsical courses like giant black-and-white film reels. Players can participate in a "Knockout Tour," where 24 players race across the map, with the mode narrowing down players at various checkpoints until only four racers remain. The core racing feels similar to Mario Kart 8, but the courses are less recursive and complex, accommodating larger crowds and offering a greater variety of power-ups. Mario Kart World is expected to be a key title for the Switch 2, given the success of Mario Kart 8 on the original Switch.

Donkey Kong

Another highly anticipated game is Donkey Kong Bananza, set to release on July 17, 2025. I have been a Donkey Kong fan since the arcade version (yes, I know that’s old), and when it hit the original Nintendo consoles, I loved how they expanded the world.

This open-world game allows players to control Donkey Kong as he smashes through environments in search of crystalline bananas and golden treasure. The game is anarchic and full of surprises, with players able to carve out tunnels and discover cave systems teeming with treasure. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, which has yet to receive a specific release date, also looks stunning on the Switch 2's updated graphics. However, the game introduces a new control mode using detachable Joy-Cons that can double as computer mice, which may frustrate some players.

Joy Cons

The Switch 2's Joy-Cons can be used in innovative ways, such as in Drag x Drive, a game resembling wheelchair basketball. Players use both Joy-Cons as mice to spin their wheels, ram opponents, and shoot hoops. Civilization 7 also benefits from the Joy-Con mouse mode, making strategy games easier to play on the console. Nintendo is also emphasizing social interaction with the Switch 2, allowing players to video conference friends mid-game and layer real-time footage onto gameplay. The console is largely backwards compatible with the original Switch, sharing much of its design philosophy.

Hardware Improvements

The Switch 2's hardware improvements include a larger 7.9-inch screen with 1080p resolution, HDR capabilities, and a refresh rate of up to 120Hz. The Joy-Cons now magnetically snap in and out, with smoother action and easier removal. The console also features a new Switch 2 dock with its own fan system, enabling 4K gaming modes on TVs. Despite these improvements, some fans may be disappointed by the lack of analog rear triggers on the Joy-Cons.

Game Chat

Nintendo is also introducing Game Chat, a new mode that allows four-player audio chats with trusted Switch friends. The Switch 2 dock has a wider range of angles for its kickstand and two USB-C ports, although the top port won't do video-out. The console is designed to be easier to travel with than Windows handhelds and the Steam Deck.

The Switch 2 Experience locations will host public events where players can try out the console and its games. Mario Kart World offers open-world racing madness, with 24-player gameplay and expansive tracks. Donkey Kong Bonanza showcases the game's digging and destroying mechanics, allowing players to burrow through walls and the ground. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is a technical showcase for graphics, running at 1080p and 120Hz on a big TV.

Welcome Tour

The Switch 2 also features a Welcome Tour, a guided tour of the console's features with insights from Nintendo and minigames. Drag x Drive uses the Joy-Cons in mouse mode to control wheelchair-using players in an intense hoop-shooting sports game. Mario Party Jamboree adds mini-games that work with the Joy-Cons' new mouse features and a game mode that uses the optional plug-in camera.

Updated Games

Updated Switch games look better on the Switch 2, with some games offering free upgrades for Nintendo Switch Online Plus members. Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom both have Switch 2 upgrades, with better frame rates and compatibility with a new phone app companion called Zelda Notes. Kirby and the Forgotten Land has a new story mode and better-looking graphics on Switch 2.

GameCube

Nintendo is adding a Nintendo GameCube virtual console library to the Switch 2, available as part of the Switch Online Plus Expansion Pack subscription. Ports of new third-party games like Elden Ring, Madden, Cyberpunk 2077, and Split Fiction are also coming to the Switch 2. The console shows promise for playing current-gen games, but Nintendo has not shared details on the Nvidia processor's power.

In conclusion, the Nintendo Switch 2 is a significant upgrade from the original Switch, offering improved hardware, innovative Joy-Con features, and a strong lineup of games. While the price may be steep, the console's capabilities and game library make it a compelling choice for gamers. The Switch 2 is set to be the biggest thing in gaming in 2025, and I can't wait to try more when it arrives on June 5.

Now is the perfect time for getting a great deal on the Nintendo Switch OLED since not everyone is ready to jump on the new console bandwagon right away. When a new console is about to hit is when you get the best deals and there’s a great one that includes Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Bundle with 3 months on Nintendo Switch Online membership. Plus you also get a 128 GB MicroSD Card. Check out this deal here as it’s one of the best out there and the OLED version looks amazing on 4K and 8K Oled tvs.

Nintendo Switch 2: A Comprehensive Review

Overview Synopsis

The Nintendo Switch 2, launching on June 5 at a price of $449, is the highly anticipated sequel to one of Nintendo's most popular game consoles. With enhanced graphics and computational abilities, the Switch 2 aims to narrow the power gap between itself and other consoles like the PlayStation 5. This new console promises grander ambitions for Nintendo, featuring a variety of new games and innovative features.

Pros

1. Enhanced Graphics and Performance: The Switch 2 boasts significantly improved graphical and computational abilities compared to the original Switch. This allows for more ambitious games and better overall performance.

2. Wide Range of Games: At the press event in New York City, a plethora of games were showcased, including new Nintendo titles like Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza, and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, as well as third-party juggernauts like Cyberpunk 2077 and Civilization 7.

3. Innovative Features: The Switch 2 introduces detachable Joy-Cons that can double as computer mice, allowing for new control modes in games like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Drag x Drive. Additionally, the console supports in-game voice and video chat with friends, enhancing social interaction.

4. Backward Compatibility: The Switch 2 is largely backward compatible with the original Switch, sharing much of its design philosophy.

5. Improved Controllers: The larger Joy-Cons now magnetically snap in and out, making them easier to use. The controllers feel sturdy and offer a smooth action.

Cons

1. High Price: At $449, the Switch 2 is an expensive proposition, especially considering the additional costs for its biggest launch-window games.

2. Mixed Performance for Third-Party Games: While the Switch 2 shows promise for playing current-gen games, the performance of some third-party games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Split Fiction was less than stellar.

3. No Analog Rear Trigger: The Switch 2's controllers lack analog rear triggers, which could have enhanced the gaming experience.

4. Flimsy Kickstand: The new Switch 2 kickstand, while functional, feels a bit flimsier than expected.

5. Economic Concerns: The high price of the console and its games may be a concern for many families, especially given the current economic climate.

In-Depth Review

The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, priced at $449. This new console aims to narrow the power gap between itself and other consoles like the PlayStation 5, boasting significantly improved graphical and computational abilities. At a press event in New York City, I had the opportunity to play a variety of games coming to the console, including new Nintendo titles like Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza, and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, as well as third-party juggernauts like Cyberpunk 2077 and Civilization 7.

Mario Kart World: This game breaks with tradition and resembles open-world racing games like the Forza Horizon series. The courses are vast and interconnected, accommodating larger crowds and offering a greater variety of power-ups. Mario Kart World is expected to be a key title for the Switch 2, given the success of Mario Kart 8 on the original Switch.

Donkey Kong Bananza: This gleefully destructive game allows players to smash through an open world, searching for crystalline bananas and golden treasure. The game's anarchic nature and the ability to punch just about everything to smithereens make it a standout title.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond: Fans have waited decades for this game, and the new entry looks absolutely gorgeous on the Switch 2's updated graphics. However, the new control mode using detachable Joy-Cons as computer mice received mixed reactions.

Drag x Drive: This innovative game uses the Joy-Cons in mouse mode to control wheelchair-using players in an intense hoop-shooting sports game. The game offers a unique and physically demanding experience.

Civilization 7: The Switch 2 aims to make strategy games easier to play with the mouse mode, potentially opening the door for niche PC games to find a home in the console market.

Social Interaction: Nintendo is going all-in on social interaction with the Switch 2. Players can video conference friends mid-game, and the optional $50 camera enables new game styles.

Backward Compatibility: The Switch 2 is largely backward compatible with the original Switch, sharing much of its design philosophy. This may disappoint fans who wanted bigger, bolder swings from Nintendo, but it ensures a smoother transition for existing Switch owners.

Controllers: The larger Joy-Cons now magnetically snap in and out, making them easier to use. The controllers feel sturdy and offer a smooth action, although they lack analog rear triggers.

Kickstand and Ports: The new Switch 2 kickstand tilts at a wider range of angles but feels a bit flimsier than expected. The console also features two USB-C ports, although the top port won't do video-out.

Third-Party Games: The Switch 2 shows promise for playing current-gen games, but the performance of some third-party games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Split Fiction was less than stellar.

Verdict: The Nintendo Switch 2 is easily the best Switch upgrade since 2017, offering enhanced graphics, a wide range of games, and innovative features. However, the high price and mixed performance for third-party games may be a concern for some. Despite these drawbacks, the Switch 2 is a promising console that will likely appeal to Nintendo’s diehard faithful and those looking for a better handheld gaming experience. I do count myself in that category and even with the higher console price and game price, it is worth it.

Gamers around the world and of all ages have reason to celebrate as Nintendo is set to release its highly anticipated new console, the Nintendo Switch 2, in June. Best Buy in the United States has confirmed that pre-order sales for the new Switch will begin on April 2 in North America, with global pre-orders likely to follow.

On April 2, Nintendo will also host a special reveal event where they will announce the official release date and price of the Switch 2. Rumors suggest that the price will start at $399. During this event, Nintendo is expected to unveil the new games lineup for the Switch 2, generating excitement among fans and gamers alike.

Three Phases For Trilogy Release

The release of the Nintendo Switch 2 is rumored to occur in three phases. The first phase, set for June, will coincide with the launch of the newest Mario Kart game. The second phase, scheduled for October or November, will feature additional third-party games. The final phase is expected to take place during the holiday season, although specific details have not yet been provided by Nintendo.

Features & Upgrades

The Nintendo Switch 2 boasts several new features and upgrades. According to a teaser video released by Nintendo, the Switch 2 will have a larger and brighter screen, a longer built-in stand, and a new black controller option. After months of leaks and speculation, Nintendo has officially announced the Switch 2, which retains the hybrid handheld design with detachable controllers that can be connected to a TV via a dock.

This iterative approach is somewhat unusual for Nintendo, which has historically opted for innovation with its new hardware. However, given the success of the original Switch, which sold 146 million units and became Nintendo's second most successful gaming system, it is not surprising that the company decided to build on its previous design. The Switch 2 enters a market where players expect to carry their game libraries forward from one console to another, making a radical change less feasible.

Still More Questions

Despite the announcement, many questions remain. Nintendo's reveal video focused on the new hardware and showcased only one new game, a new Mario Kart. The video did not provide a firm release date or price for the Switch 2, and several rumored features were not addressed. However, Nintendo has suggested that some Switch 1 games will receive enhanced versions for the Switch 2, running natively on the new console rather than through backward compatibility.

Additionally, promotional materials for the new Nintendo Today app have revealed an extra button on the right Joy-Con, labeled with a "C." This mysterious "C button" has been the subject of much speculation, and its purpose remains unknown.

June Release Date

Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 will be released in 2025 but has not provided a precise release date. Strong indications suggest that the wait will not be long, with a potential launch in June 2025. The price of the Switch 2 remains one of the biggest unanswered questions. While Nintendo did not reveal pricing details in its announcement video, it is likely that the Switch 2 will be more expensive than the original Switch, which launched at $299 in 2017. Given the current market trends and economic factors, the Switch 2 is expected to be priced around $399.

Nintendo's decision to manufacture the Switch in Vietnam during the previous trade war with China may help avoid tariffs and keep the price reasonable. As for the games lineup, Nintendo has not confirmed any titles alongside the new console, although a glimpse of a new Mario Kart was shown in the announcement video. Leaks and informed speculation suggest that titles such as Mario Kart 9, a new 3D Super Mario game, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, and Pokémon Legends: Z-A may be part of the Switch 2's launch lineup.

Backward Compatible

The Switch 2 will be backward-compatible, allowing players to carry forward their game libraries from the original Switch. Nintendo has confirmed that Switch software will be playable on the new console, and Nintendo Switch Online will be available on the Switch 2. However, certain Switch games may not be fully compatible with the Switch 2.

Features

The Switch 2 features detachable Joy-Con controllers with magnetic attachments, a second USB-C port, and an 8-inch screen. The console is expected to be more powerful than its predecessor, with a custom Nvidia chip capable of ray tracing and DLSS. The Switch 2 will also feature upgrades in RAM and internal storage, as well as Wi-Fi 6 support. However, it will have an LCD screen instead of the OLED screen seen in the current top-of-the-range Switch model.

Let the Pre-Orders Begin

Pre-orders for the Switch 2 are expected to open on April 2, alongside the Nintendo Direct event on April 2. Nintendo will also hold Switch 2 Experience events around the world throughout April, allowing the public to go hands-on with the new console.

Now is the perfect time for getting a great deal on the Nintendo Switch OLED since not everyone is ready to jump on the new console bandwagon right away. When a new console is about to hit is when you get the best deals and there’s a great one that includes Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Bundle with 3 months on Nintendo Switch Online membership. Plus you also get a 128 GB MicroSD Card. Check out this deal here as it’s one of the best out there and the OLED version looks amazing on 4K and 8K Oled tvs.