Nintendo has recently announced some changes regarding the U.S. pre-orders for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2. Originally set for April 9, these pre-orders have been postponed as the company monitors the impact of significant economic policy shifts.
In a press release, Nintendo stated, “Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S. will not start on April 9, 2025, in order to assess the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions. Nintendo will update the timing at a later date. The launch date of June 5, 2025, remains unchanged.”
This decision comes in the wake of an announcement from then-President Donald Trump on April 2, which introduced a sweeping range of tariffs affecting countries worldwide, including Japan and Vietnam. While Nintendo is a Japanese company, much of its manufacturing is based in China and Vietnam. Interestingly, Nintendo had moved some production to Vietnam, a move presumably influenced by earlier U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods. These recent changes have levied a 46% tariff on goods from Vietnam and an additional 34% on Chinese imports, potentially affecting the cost and availability of the Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S.
These economic developments have sparked widespread concern globally, with economic powerhouses like JP Morgan raising the likelihood of a recession to 60%. This climate of financial instability could potentially hinder sales in the U.S. and ripple through to other economies affected by changes in import and export dynamics.
For American gamers eagerly waiting, this means the Nintendo Switch 2 could end up costing more than anticipated. It’s unfortunate timing, especially when many are already feeling the pinch from the rising cost of living. While it’s unclear just how much the price might increase, we’ll have to stay tuned to see the full impact on U.S. consumers.
Are you reconsidering your plans to buy the Nintendo Switch 2 at launch with these new developments? Share your thoughts with us below!
