Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo has implemented rules to prevent scalpers from reselling the Switch 2, requiring a year-long Nintendo Switch Online subscription for purchases on their website.
2. In the UK, pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 are being sold at inflated prices on eBay, exceeding the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP).
3. Retail sales for the Switch 2 are ongoing in the UK, while U.S. sales are delayed due to new tariffs, creating complications for buyers.
4. eBay listings for the Switch 2 must comply with specific guidelines, including a promise to ship within 40 business days, raising concerns about the authenticity of many listings.
5. Many eBay listings have been removed for rule violations, but compliance may improve as the official release date of June 5th approaches.
Nintendo has introduced rules to stop scalpers from reselling the Switch 2. To buy one, gamers need to have had a Nintendo Switch Online subscription for at least a year, along with other requirements. However, these rules only apply to purchases made through Nintendo’s own website. Meanwhile, buyers in the UK and other areas are already reserving consoles from retailers, and eBay sellers are making a profit. Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 are selling for much more than the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP).
High Prices on eBay
Some of the top sales on eBay UK include the Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle. For instance, one bundle sold for over 600 British pounds, which is around 773 US dollars. With an MSRP of £429.99 and $499.99, these sales don’t represent record-breaking profits for scalpers on new consoles. Still, with criticism about Nintendo’s pricing, it’s clear that some buyers are willing to pay a premium.
Retailer Sales and Complications in the US
Various UK retailers like Argos and Amazon have started their sales or sent out invitations. In contrast, the situation for Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders in the United States is more complex. Following news of new tariffs under Trump, the company has delayed sales there. This might mean that eBay could be the only option for sellers who manage to get their hands on the console.
It’s still uncertain whether any of the eBay transactions will go through without getting canceled. Per the guidelines on eBay UK, “Presale listings must promise that the item will be shipped within 40 business days after purchase.” Sellers must also make it clear that they are listing a Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order that will be shipped within that time frame. This policy is also valid for eBay in the US and Australia. Given that the console is set to officially launch on June 5th, many of these sales don’t seem to be genuine. However, the “40 business days” requirement could push the shipping date closer to the launch.
Missing Listings and Future Sales
A lot of the eBay listings have recently disappeared due to rule violations. Nonetheless, as the release date for the Switch 2 nears, it should become easier for sellers to comply with eBay’s requirements.
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