Nintendo Store Limits Switch 2 Preorders to Combat Scalpers

The much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025, and is expected to be a highly sought-after product. To ensure that genuine fans of the console have the best chance to secure a pre-order, Nintendo has implemented a structured pre-order system on the My Nintendo Store. If you're a Nintendo Account holder, you can register your interest in pre-ordering the Nintendo Switch 2 system along with "select accessories." Once your turn comes up, you'll receive an invitation email, which remains valid for 72 hours. However, there's a catch: you must have spent significant time on your current Switch and be a member of Nintendo Switch Online.

According to the fine print on the site, "Invitation emails will be prioritized on a first-come, first-served basis to registrants who have purchased a Nintendo Switch Online membership with a minimum of 12 months of paid membership and a minimum of 50 total gameplay hours, as of April 2, 2025." These invitations are "non-transferable" and will be sent to the email address linked to your Nintendo Account. Additionally, there's a one-per-account limit for both the system and each accessory during the invitation period. You can express interest in either a base Nintendo Switch 2 system or one bundled with Mario Kart World.

Once you place an order, it will be shipped after purchase, and you'll be provided with an approximate shipping date at the time of ordering. Nintendo emphasizes that "release-day delivery is not guaranteed due to processing and shipment times." These measures seem designed to ensure that those who pre-order a Switch 2 are genuine fans looking to enjoy the console themselves, rather than resellers looking to flip it online.

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow

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Scalping has been a persistent issue with the release of popular products, as seen with the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, as well as the Pokémon Trading Card Game. Valve managed to mitigate this problem with the Steam Deck by implementing a queue system that linked purchases to Steam accounts and checked account creation dates. It's no surprise that Nintendo is adopting a similar approach with the My Nintendo Store process.

While there will be other avenues to purchase the Switch 2, this pre-order system offers a promising way for long-time Switch owners to secure a console on launch day, potentially avoiding the chaos of trying to pre-order amidst high demand.