Nintendo Store Adds Restrictions to Switch 2 Preorders to Combat Scalpers

The eagerly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025, and is expected to be a highly sought-after item. To ensure that genuine fans of the console get their hands on it, Nintendo is implementing a strategic pre-order system through the My Nintendo Store. If you're a Nintendo Account holder, you can now 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 logged 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 the base Nintendo Switch 2 system or the bundle that includes Mario Kart World.

Once you place your order, it will be shipped post-purchase, with an approximate shipping date provided at the time of ordering. Nintendo clarifies that "release-day delivery is not guaranteed due to processing and shipment times." These measures seem designed to ensure that the Switch 2 ends up in the hands of dedicated gamers rather than scalpers looking to resell the console 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, Xbox Series X|S, and 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 acquire a Switch 2, this pre-order system offers a promising solution for long-time Switch owners to secure their console without the frenzy typically associated with launch day pre-orders.