It’s almost here! The long-awaited Nintendo Switch 2 officially launches Thursday, June 5, and if you’re hoping to snag one on day one, you’ll want to plan ahead—because inventory is expected to be tight.
Retailers like Best Buy, GameStop, Target, Walmart, and even Staples are holding special launch events and midnight releases, while others are dropping units online and in stores in limited quantities. Let’s break down everything you need to know about the Switch 2 release, bundles, prices, and where to grab yours.
🎮 Why the Hype?
The Nintendo Switch 2 is the next-gen follow-up to the wildly popular original Switch from 2017. The new model boasts a 7.9-inch built-in LCD screen, 1080p full HD resolution, and keeps the slim design fans loved. It’s launching as a Switch 2 exclusive, meaning you won’t be able to play it on the original console.
💰 Pricing Rundown:
- Nintendo Switch 2: $449.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle: $499.99
- Mario Kart World (standalone): $79.99
- Donkey Kong Bananza: $69.99
⚠️ Note: Nintendo says some accessory prices have gone up due to “changes in market conditions,” and more price changes could happen in the future.
⏰ Launch Events & Where to Buy:
🟡 Best Buy
- Midnight Release: Most stores open at 12:01 AM ET Thursday
- Two lines: One for pre-orders, one for walk-ins
- Launch week only: In-store inventory is limited to this window
🔴 GameStop
- Launch Event: Begins at 3 PM local time Wednesday
- Pickups Start: 12 AM EST / 9 PM PST Wednesday night
- Extra Units Available: In-store and online at launch, while supplies last
🎯 Target
- Launch Day: Thursday, June 5
- Lines Open: Before store hours, with digital/physical tickets handed out
- Online Sales: Begin Friday via app and website
- Bundles Available: Both standard and Mario Kart editions
🔵 Walmart
- Online Sales: Start at midnight ET Thursday
- In-Store Timing:
- Supercenters (PST/MST/Hawaii/Alaska): Open at midnight local time
- All others: Doors open at 6 AM local time
- Supercenters (PST/MST/Hawaii/Alaska): Open at midnight local time
- Inventory: Varies by location, limited quantities
🟢 Costco
- Exclusive Bundle: Mario Kart World Bundle drops Thursday
- Limit: One unit per transaction, max one every seven days per member
🟠 Staples
- Limited Stores: Only select locations
- No Guarantee: Arrival dates vary; first-come, first-served
- Limit: One per customer
🔄 Flashback: The Road to Launch
Nintendo originally announced the Switch 2’s price and release date on April 2—on the same day former President Trump introduced sweeping new tariffs. This unexpected twist led to a temporary pause in U.S. preorders while Nintendo reassessed the impact.
By the time preorders resumed on April 24, they were gone in a flash. Now, with the console hitting shelves, fans are bracing for tight supply and long lines.
Between new titles like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza, plus a sleek new console design, it’s no surprise the Switch 2 is the hottest ticket in town. If you’re looking to pick one up on launch day, make sure you set your alarm, plan your stop, and maybe bring snacks—it’s gonna be a wild ride.
Let the games begin! 🕹️
Related Articles:
Apple’s First Game Studio Acquisition Hints at Bigger Gaming Ambitions for 2025
M4 iPad Pro Gets Surprise $100 Price Drop for Memorial Day
Sony INZONE H9 Gaming Headset Gets $70 Discount — One of PS5’s Best Just Got Better
