Best Buy Switch 2 Release Date: Anti-Scalper Plans Explained

Key Takeaways

1. The Nintendo Switch 2 launches on June 5th, with late-night store openings on June 4th at select Best Buy locations.
2. Best Buy will use a ticketing system to prevent scalpers from buying multiple consoles, with two separate lines for pre-order pickups and walk-in customers.
3. There will be no online sales of the Switch 2 during the first week of its launch.
4. Best Buy is collaborating with GameStop for the launch event, with only games and accessories available online.
5. All customers, including non-pre-order individuals, may receive a limited edition coin featuring Nintendo and Best Buy logos.


Even though the Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5th, some purchasing information remains unclear. Best Buy has shared an update on their site, explaining their late-night store opening plans. To combat scalpers, the retailer will implement a ticketing system. Moreover, there won’t be any online sales for the consoles during the first week of the launch.

Late-Night Openings

Some gamers may call it a midnight launch, but Best Buy’s hours include late-night openings on June 4th in various U.S. time zones. The retailer has provided a list of locations so gamers can see where they can line up to get their hands on the new device. Those who successfully pre-ordered the Switch 2 can come at the designated times to pick up their consoles. Best Buy will also have a limited supply of handhelds available for other customers, but they haven’t specified the exact numbers.

Two Lines for Launch Event

As anticipated, Best Buy will manage two separate lines during the Switch 2 launch. One line will cater to customers picking up their pre-orders, while the other will be for those who have not made a reservation. To stop scalpers from acquiring multiple consoles, Best Buy will distribute tickets. However, these resellers often find innovative ways to get around such rules.

Previous Console Launches

The last significant console release was the Xbox Series X/S and PS5 in November 2020. Unfortunately, the Covid pandemic disrupted in-person launch events, forcing retailers to sell systems online, which led to ongoing struggles with bots. This time, for the Switch 2, Best Buy is collaborating with GameStop to celebrate the release date. Notably, only games and accessories will be sold on the Best Buy website.

All customers, including those without a pre-order, could also receive a limited edition coin. Although leaked images of the collectible haven’t excited fans, it will showcase both Nintendo and Best Buy logos.

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