Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders Face Store Restrictions to Combat Scalpers

The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025, and it's expected to be in high demand. To ensure that genuine Switch enthusiasts get their hands on the new console, Nintendo is implementing a strategic pre-order system through the My Nintendo Store. If you're a fan with a Nintendo Account, 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 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 emphasizes that "release-day delivery is not guaranteed due to processing and shipment times." These measures are clearly 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.