Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders: Latest updates as console remains sold out at GameStop, Walmart, Target, Best Buy and others

Engadget - Apr 28th, 2025

Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders opened in North America on April 24, but stocks quickly depleted at major retailers like Walmart, Target, Best Buy, and GameStop. Despite a delayed start from the original April 9 date, enthusiastic demand has caused pre-order pages to go down or show as out of stock. Nintendo itself offers a limited invite-only system to access pre-orders, prioritizing dedicated players with at least 12 months of Switch Online service and 50 hours of gameplay. The company warns that some invitations might arrive only after the official launch on June 5.

The pre-order frenzy reflects the high anticipation for the Switch 2, which boasts features like a 7.9-inch screen, 120Hz refresh rate, and Game Chat functionality. However, the backdrop of tariff uncertainty adds complexity; Nintendo's production adjustments include manufacturing shifts to Vietnam to circumvent potential cost increases. The tariffs, along with immense demand—2.2 million pre-orders in Japan alone—could affect availability and pricing, underscoring the console's significance in the gaming market as Nintendo races to satisfy global demand.

Nintendo Tariffs Nintendo Switch 2 Retailers Pre Orders Gaming Consoles

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

6.2

Moderately Fair

Read with skepticism

The article provides a detailed and timely overview of the Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order situation, effectively informing readers about availability and logistical challenges. Its clarity and focus on practical information make it accessible to a wide audience, particularly those interested in gaming. However, the lack of direct source citations and transparency about information gathering methods slightly undermine its credibility. While the piece is not highly controversial, it touches on broader economic issues such as tariffs and manufacturing shifts, which could benefit from deeper exploration. Overall, the article serves its purpose well but could be strengthened by enhancing source quality and transparency.

Accuracy

The article provides a comprehensive overview of the Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order situation, with many claims aligning with official announcements and retailer updates. For instance, it correctly notes the pre-order opening date of April 24 and the quick sell-out at major retailers like Walmart and GameStop. However, some details, such as the availability of pre-orders at Walmart until April 26, lack corroboration. Additionally, the description of the Nintendo invite system and its prioritization criteria are consistent with public information. Nevertheless, the article could improve accuracy by providing more precise data on stock levels and retailer timelines.

Balance

The article primarily focuses on the availability and logistics of pre-ordering the Nintendo Switch 2, offering a narrow perspective that centers on consumer access and retailer actions. It does not delve into broader industry implications, such as potential impacts on competitors or the gaming market. While it mentions tariffs and manufacturing shifts, these are not explored in depth, which could provide a more balanced view of the challenges Nintendo faces. The article could enhance balance by incorporating expert opinions or insights on the console's market positioning.

Clarity

The article is generally well-structured, with a clear focus on the pre-order process and availability of the Nintendo Switch 2. It uses straightforward language and logical flow, making it easy for readers to follow the developments. The inclusion of specific dates and retailer names helps clarify the timeline of events. However, the article occasionally includes speculative elements, such as potential future price increases, which could be more clearly distinguished from confirmed facts to avoid confusion.

Source quality

The article appears to rely heavily on unnamed sources and general observations, with no direct citations or links to official Nintendo statements or retailer confirmations. This lack of attribution makes it challenging to assess the reliability of the information presented. While some claims align with known facts, the absence of direct sources undermines the article's authority. Including quotes from Nintendo representatives or retailer spokespeople would strengthen the source quality and provide greater confidence in the reported details.

Transparency

The article does not explicitly disclose its sources or the methodology used to gather information, which limits transparency. It provides a detailed account of the pre-order process but lacks clarity on how the information was obtained. The piece could improve transparency by explaining the basis for its claims, such as referencing official press releases or interviews. Additionally, acknowledging any potential biases or conflicts of interest would enhance the reader's understanding of the article's context.