Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo will announce changes to Switch pricing on August 1st, affecting consoles, games, accessories, and Nintendo Switch Online services.
2. The upcoming pricing changes will not impact the new Switch 2 generation.
3. Canadian and American consumers have avoided a price hike for the Switch 2 despite ongoing trade tensions.
4. There is uncertainty about potential price increases for older Switch consoles and games, with speculation about a $50 hike for older models.
5. Nintendo Switch Online service pricing may change, currently at $4.99 per month, excluding the Expansion Pack.
Canadian Nintendo enthusiasts have gotten some news that might not be very pleasing. The Japanese gaming company sent out a press release stating it will reveal changes to the Switch pricing on August 1st. Players should prepare for different manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRPs) for consoles, games, accessories, and Nintendo Switch Online services. Importantly, these changes won’t affect the new Switch 2 generation. The company hasn’t specified if prices will rise or fall, but many gamers are worried about possible increases.
Market Conditions and Concerns
With Nintendo hinting at shifts in market conditions, a lot of buyers are bracing for the worst. Canadian and American consumers managed to avoid a price hike for the Switch 2 amidst ongoing tensions regarding U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods. Nevertheless, trade issues between the two nations persist, as Canada has announced it will resume negotiations. The uncertainty surrounding tariffs has already impacted the pricing and availability of electronics made in China, although Nintendo has relocated some of its production to Vietnam.
Global Pricing Changes Ahead?
There’s also a chance that Nintendo might soon disclose pricing updates for other countries. Gamers are curious about how much the cost of the original Switch can increase now that the new handheld is on the market. In Canada, the Switch OLED is priced at $450, while the standalone Switch 2 is available for $630 CAD. Even the older Switch model with an LCD screen still has a price tag of $400. If the older consoles see a price hike of $50, it may not make sense to stick with them instead of opting for the Switch 2.
Game Prices and Subscription Services
The prices of Switch games are still high, so players likely won’t be excited about the possibility of paying more for older titles. However, thanks to backward compatibility and upgrade packs, these games are gaining new life on the Switch 2. Many accessories for the Switch also retain some functionality with the latest handheld, adding value for gamers.
One significant change that could impact all Switch owners in Canada is related to Nintendo Switch Online. Right now, the service is only $4.99 per month, not including the Expansion Pack.
PR Newswire Canada, Wario64 account, Nintendo of Canada
Nintendo Switch Pricing Update
Nintendo Switch (CNW Group/Nintendo of Canada Ltd.)
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