Tag: Nintendo Switch 2

  • Diablo 4 May Arrive on Switch 2, but Live Service is Challenging

    Diablo 4 May Arrive on Switch 2, but Live Service is Challenging

    Key Takeaways

    1. Exciting third-party games for the Nintendo Switch 2 include Cyberpunk 2077, Borderlands 4, Hades 2, and Hogwarts Legacy.
    2. Rod Fergusson from Blizzard mentioned a potential for Diablo 4 on the Switch 2, highlighting its capability to handle such games.
    3. The main challenge for Diablo 4 is managing live services on a handheld console due to potential internet connectivity issues.
    4. Fergusson is optimistic that solutions will be found to address live service challenges on the Switch 2.
    5. Diablo 3 and Diablo 2 Resurrected will be available on the Switch 2, allowing backward compatibility for players.

    A bunch of exciting third-party games have been revealed for the Nintendo Switch 2, such as Cyberpunk 2077, Borderlands 4, Hades 2, and Hogwarts Legacy, among others. Although no titles from Blizzard were included in this announcement, Rod Fergusson, who leads the Diablo team at Blizzard, mentioned that there is a “chance” to bring Diablo 4 to the Switch 2. The main issue that needs to be resolved is how to manage live services on a handheld console.

    Interview Insights

    In a recent interview with Gamertag Radio, hosted by Danny Pena, Rod Fergusson discussed the potential of Diablo running on the Nintendo Switch 2. While he did not provide any concrete confirmation, he emphasized that there is definitely a chance, stating that the Switch 2 has the capability to handle games like Diablo 4. “It’s great that the Switch 2 has the power to run a game like Diablo 4, so yeah, it’s something we’re looking at,” Fergusson noted.

    Challenges Ahead

    The main challenge is figuring out the live service aspect. Since Diablo 4 is a live service game, it needs a constant connection to a server, and players using the Switch 2 might often find themselves without stable internet, especially when on the go. “I think the real challenge is not so much the hardware, but rather how we… you know, live services on Switch have had some issues in the past,” Fergusson explained.

    Future Possibilities

    Fergusson remains optimistic that solutions will emerge to simplify live services on the Switch 2, which could lead to the launch of Diablo 4 on the platform.

    In January, a source leaked that Diablo 4 was already being adapted for the Switch 2, indicating that Blizzard might have plans in progress. Both Diablo 3 and Diablo 2 Resurrected are currently available on the original Switch, and with backward compatibility, players will be able to enjoy these games on the Switch 2 when it launches on June 5.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Motherboard Teardown Reveals Key Specifications

    Nintendo Switch 2 Motherboard Teardown Reveals Key Specifications

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 features Nvidia’s Tegra T239 SoC with a mix of Arm Cortex cores and a custom Ampere-based GPU.
    2. The device includes 256 GB UFS 3.1 storage from SK Hynix and a Wi-Fi chip from MediaTek.
    3. The motherboard design resembles one seen in previous leaks.
    4. A detailed analysis of the Nintendo Switch 2’s SoC’s process node will be released soon.
    5. There is speculation about whether the GPU is built on Samsung’s 8 nm node or a more advanced 5 nm node.

    Even with the Nintendo Switch 2 still weeks from release, some internet investigators have already got a hold of one and started to disassemble it. The user @KrunalSalts, known for their precise chip tear-downs, has confirmed several important details about the Nintendo Switch 2.

    Key Specifications

    The Nintendo Switch is equipped with Nvidia’s Tegra T239 SoC. This chip includes an Arm Cortex X1 core, three Cortex A78 cores, and four Cortex A55 cores, along with a custom Ampere-based GPU. Additionally, two LPDDR modules can be observed alongside it. The motherboard resembles one revealed in a previous leak. It also features a 256 GB UFS 3.1 module from SK Hynix, along with what appears to be a Wi-Fi chip from MediaTek.

    What’s Next?

    Krunal has mentioned that a more in-depth analysis will be available soon. This will address one of the main questions regarding the Nintendo Switch 2’s SoC: which process node it utilizes. Given that its GPU is Ampere-based, many assume it is fabricated on Samsung’s 8 nm node. However, there are some suggesting that it employs a more advanced 5 nm variant.

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  • Madden NFL 26 Release Date Leaked; Nintendo Switch 2 Status Unclear

    Madden NFL 26 Release Date Leaked; Nintendo Switch 2 Status Unclear

    Key Takeaways

    1. Madden NFL 26 is set to be revealed by April 25th and will release on August 14th, with a Deluxe Edition offering three days of early access.
    2. The game is expected to be available on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, with no current plans for PS4 or Xbox One versions, indicating a shift to current-generation consoles.
    3. EA has confirmed a Madden game for the upcoming Switch 2, but it is unclear if Madden NFL 26 will launch on that platform in August.
    4. EA Sports has previously provided lesser versions of games for the Nintendo Switch, leading to hopes for improved performance on the Switch 2.
    5. Fans are eager for more information regarding the Switch version of Madden NFL 26, as EA typically aims for simultaneous releases of its sports games each year.

    The arrival of a new Madden football game is a yearly event for EA Sports. Trusted leaker billbil-kun has mentioned that the company is set to reveal the new installment by April 25th at the latest. The release date for Madden NFL 26 is slated for August 14th, and players who opt for the Deluxe Edition will get three days of early access. While EA has confirmed that there will be a Madden game for the Switch 2, it remains unclear if Madden NFL 26 will be available on that platform in August.

    Platform Expectations

    According to billbil-kun, the latest Madden game is expected to be released on the PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. There’s no information about a PS4 or Xbox One version, suggesting that Madden NFL 26 might be exclusive to current-generation consoles. This is a shift from Madden 25, especially since EA College Football 25 will only be available in 2024 for newer systems. Interestingly, the F1 25 racing simulation is also focusing on current platforms for the first time, indicating that EA may be moving away from older Microsoft and Sony consoles.

    Switch Developments

    Madden has been noticeably missing from the Nintendo Switch lineup. Previously, EA provided lesser versions of its sports games for the Switch with reduced graphics and absent features. While EA Sports FC 25 managed to retain many elements, the limitations of the Switch were clear. Gamers are hoping for improved performance when both games launch on the Switch 2. Initial footage suggests that the new Nintendo console could at least rival the Steam Deck. However, many EA Sports games are not compatible with Valve’s handheld, and anti-cheat measures prevent EA Sports FC 25 from running on it.

    The first Madden game for the Switch 2 might not share the same release period as Madden NFL 26. Nevertheless, EA generally aims for its sports games to be released at the same time each year. Fans are eager for more information regarding a Switch version when the Madden NFL 26 release date is officially announced.

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    Madden NFL 26 Release Date Leaked; Nintendo Switch 2 Status Unclear
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  • PlayStation 6 Portable Leak: Full PS5 Library Support Expected

    PlayStation 6 Portable Leak: Full PS5 Library Support Expected

    Key Takeaways

    1. The PlayStation 6 Portable is expected to launch alongside the standard PS6 console.
    2. It will feature a low-power AMD system on a chip (SoC) with performance between the Xbox Series S and PS5.
    3. The PS6 Portable will have extensive game compatibility, including the ability to play PS5 titles without developer updates.
    4. Unpatched PS5 games may not perform optimally on the PS6 Portable, similar to how PS4 games run on PS5.
    5. The handheld gaming market is becoming competitive, with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 and potential Xbox handhelds.

    Thanks to insights shared by @KeplerL2 on the NeoGAF forums, we’re starting to get a clearer picture of the PlayStation 6 Portable. If this information checks out, this handheld version of the PS6 is set to be released alongside the standard PS6 console. It’s rumored that the portable device will include a low-power AMD system on a chip (SoC) that delivers performance levels between the Xbox Series S and the PlayStation 5. Furthermore, it seems the PS6 Portable will have extensive game compatibility.

    Compatibility Insights

    When questioned about whether current-gen games would require updates to run on the PS6 Portable, @KeplerL2 stated that the handheld could play PS5 titles without needing any developer modifications or patches. This is because the PS6 Portable reportedly features “shader binary compatibility,” enabling it to run PS5 games natively.

    Nevertheless, the leaker mentioned that unpatched games might not perform optimally on the PS6 Portable. This is quite reasonable considering that the PS5 can also play all PS4 games natively, yet developers often release patches for their PS4 titles to utilize the enhanced capabilities of the newer console.

    Handheld Gaming Landscape

    With the Nintendo Switch 2 launching in June and rumors of Microsoft working on an Xbox handheld console, the gaming console competition appears to be shifting into handheld territory. If we also consider the emergence of next-gen Windows handhelds like the updated Steam Deck and ROG Ally, the market for portable consoles could become extremely competitive in the coming years.

    This is particularly thrilling since, prior to the recent surge of Windows handhelds, Nintendo dominated the handheld gaming scene for nearly a decade.

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    PlayStation 6 Portable Leak: Full PS5 Library Support Expected
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  • Cyberpunk 2077 Confirmed as First Nintendo Switch 2 Game with DLSS

    Cyberpunk 2077 Confirmed as First Nintendo Switch 2 Game with DLSS

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 will feature docked 4K output and support up to 120 fps, powered by an Nvidia Tegra T239 processor with DLSS upscaling capabilities.
    2. CD Projekt Red confirmed that Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition will utilize DLSS, making it the first known title for Switch 2 to leverage this technology.
    3. Players can expect DLSS to enhance both handheld and docked performance modes, although details on a specific version for Switch 2 are not yet disclosed.
    4. Performance options include a quality mode at 30 fps and a performance mode at 40 fps (likely at 120Hz) when docked, with handheld play offering 30 fps at 1080p or 40 fps at 720p.
    5. Nintendo has been reserved about the Switch 2’s specifications, but more information will emerge as journalists begin testing the console.

    The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to deliver remarkable capabilities, such as docked 4K output and a maximum of 120 fps. It is believed to be powered by an Nvidia Tegra T239 processor, and with DLSS upscaling, the handheld could reach its full potential. Recently, Nintendo confirmed that the Switch 2 will indeed support this technology. In an interesting development, CD Projekt Red, the studio behind Cyberpunk 2077, informed Digital Foundry that their action RPG will utilize DLSS.

    Performance Insights

    The developer has not clarified if a version of DLSS tailored for the Switch 2 is in the works. Nevertheless, players can expect to experience DLSS in both handheld and docked performance and quality modes. This announcement marks the game as the first known title for Switch 2 to leverage DLSS. The topic has sparked discussions, especially since handheld demos of Switch 2 displayed a relatively stable 40 fps. Given that the Steam Deck often struggles to hit this figure, DLSS may account for the improved performance. However, it remains unclear if the upscaling is observable in the footage of Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition.

    Analyzing the Evidence

    In a recent episode of the Digital Foundry Direct podcast, analysts examined videos in search of evidence of DLSS. When upscaling is enabled, players might notice objects with jagged edges. Yet, apart from a few cases, Nvidia’s upscaling was hard to detect. The presence of low-quality motion blur could also hide these indicators in the Switch 2 game. Furthermore, when DLSS renders images at reduced resolutions, identifying these subtle details becomes challenging.

    Game Modes and Performance Targets

    The developer of Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition also confirmed the performance expectations for Switch 2. Players will have the option to select a quality mode at 30 fps or a performance mode at 40 fps (likely at 120Hz) when docked. The output resolution is 1080p thanks to DLSS. For handheld play, players can still anticipate 30 fps at 1080p in quality mode, while performance mode drops the resolution to 720p to achieve 40 fps.

    Nintendo has been cautious about revealing detailed information regarding the Switch 2 specifications. However, as more journalists begin to test the console, it should soon become clear how other games will take advantage of DLSS.

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  • Nintendo President Discusses No 3D Mario Game for Switch 2 Launch

    Nintendo President Discusses No 3D Mario Game for Switch 2 Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 has an impressive launch lineup featuring many popular third-party games.
    2. Gamers are disappointed by the lack of a 3D Mario game since Super Mario Odyssey, released eight years ago.
    3. Doug Bowser hinted at future Mario games, encouraging fans to “stay tuned.”
    4. Some analysts, like Krysta Yang, believe focusing on Mario Kart World may not be the best choice and suggest showcasing a new 3D open-world game instead.
    5. Over 20 games will launch with the Switch 2 on June 5th, but third-party titles dominate the lineup, leaving limited Nintendo offerings.

    The launch lineup for the Nintendo Switch 2 is quite impressive, featuring many well-known third-party games. However, some gamers are still unhappy about the absence of a 3D Mario game. Since Super Mario Odyssey was released on the Switch eight years ago, there has been no announcement for a sequel. Recently, when asked about the future of Mario games, Doug Bowser, the President of Nintendo of America, provided a glimmer of hope for fans. He also conveyed that the variety of games available for the Switch 2 will keep players entertained for quite a while.

    Nintendo’s Response

    When CNN inquired why a Mario platformer hasn’t been mentioned yet, Bowser urged Nintendo enthusiasts to “stay tuned.” He suggested that while there are plenty of games for the Switch 2, Mario, the iconic plumber, will still play a significant role in the new handheld’s library.

    Mixed Reactions

    As it became clear that Mario Kart World would be the main focus for the upcoming Nintendo Direct on April 2nd, not all industry analysts were in favor. Former Nintendo PR Manager Krysta Yang believed that putting the spotlight on the kart racing game was a misstep. On her Kit & Krysta podcast, she proposed that Nintendo should showcase a 3D open-world game that could utilize the enhanced specs of the Switch 2. A prime example she mentioned was The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, which inspired many Wii U players to switch to the original model.

    A Change of Heart

    After the complete reveal of the Switch 2 launch titles, Yang began to recognize the variety of choices available. Even though Mario Kart World might not feature a 120 fps option, its off-road mechanics introduce fresh elements to the previous racing games. Still, Donkey Kong Bananza, scheduled to launch on July 17th, will have the responsibility of representing the 3D platforming genre. Over 20 games are set to debut with the Switch 2 on June 5th, but it’s worth noting that third-party titles overshadow a limited selection of Nintendo’s offerings.

    Unfortunately, Bowser did not provide specific details on when Super Mario Odyssey 2 or another 3D Mario title might be released on the Switch 2. Until that highly anticipated moment arrives, gamers will have to settle for racing against Mario on the tracks.

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    Nintendo President Discusses No 3D Mario Game for Switch 2 LaunchNintendo President Discusses No 3D Mario Game for Switch 2 Launch

     

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders Start April 24 in US and Canada

    Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders Start April 24 in US and Canada

    Key Takeaways

    1. Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 will begin on April 24 in the US and Canada.
    2. The base model of the Switch 2 is priced at $450, and the bundle with Mario Kart World is $500 in the US; Canadian prices are $630 and $700, respectively.
    3. Accessory prices in the US will be adjusted due to market changes, with new pricing released for both countries.
    4. Initial pre-order dates were delayed to assess tariff impacts, but the launch date remains unchanged on June 5.
    5. Speculation about earlier pre-order dates in Canada and the US was proven incorrect, with the official date now confirmed.

    After much anticipation, Nintendo has finally announced that pre-orders for the Switch 2 will kick off on April 24 in both the US and Canada. There was some worry that the console’s price might rise due to the ongoing tariff conflicts, but it appears that’s not going to happen for the console itself. The Switch 2 was revealed on April 2, and initially, the pre-order date was set for April 9.

    Pricing Details

    With the confirmed pre-order date of April 24, Nintendo has also stated that the pricing for the console and its bundle will stay the same as previously disclosed. The base model of the Switch 2 will be priced at $450, while the Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World bundle will retail for $500. In Canada, the pricing is set at $630 for the standard Switch 2 and $700 for the bundle.

    Accessories Update

    However, due to changing market dynamics, prices for accessories in the US will be adjusted, and Nintendo has released an updated price list. Canadian accessory pricing has also been revealed recently.

    For context, the Nintendo Switch 2 was initially going to be available for pre-order starting on April 9 in both the US and Canada. But on April 4, the company announced a delay in pre-orders to “evaluate the potential effects of tariffs and changing market conditions.” The same message was issued for Canada pre-orders on April 8, with no new dates provided. Throughout this period, Nintendo has consistently stated that the launch date of June 5 will not be affected.

    Speculations and Expectations

    There was speculation that Canadian pre-orders would begin on April 23, with US pre-orders potentially starting on either April 21 or April 30. Because of the tariff situation, it was anticipated that the prices for the Switch 2 could rise when the official pre-order date was released.

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  • Nintendo Reverses VRR Support for Switch 2 in Docked Mode

    Nintendo Reverses VRR Support for Switch 2 in Docked Mode

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo has launched the Switch 2, highlighting advanced features compared to its predecessor.
    2. Confusion arose regarding Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) support in docked mode, as information was removed from US and Canadian sites but remained on the UK site.
    3. VRR support is confirmed for handheld mode across all official sites, enabled by Nvidia G-Sync and DisplayPort 1.4 compatibility.
    4. The removal of docked VRR support may relate to the conversion process from DisplayPort to HDMI for display output.
    5. Canadian retailers confirmed pre-orders for the Switch 2 will begin on April 23, 2025, with uncertain dates for the US market.

    Nintendo has unveiled the Switch 2, a more advanced gaming handheld compared to its predecessor. When it was launched, the company emphasized the many features of the new console. The initial promotional content mentioned that it supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) when both docked and in handheld mode.

    Confusion Over VRR Support

    Recently, however, the information about VRR support while docked has been taken off the official websites for the US and Canada. Interestingly, the UK site still shows the original details, leading to some confusion among gamers. Without VRR support in docked mode, achieving a smooth gaming experience at 4K could become quite challenging.

    Handheld Mode Support Remains

    On a positive note, the Switch 2 still lists VRR support in handheld mode across all official sites. This feature is made possible due to its compatibility with Nvidia G-Sync and a native DisplayPort 1.4 connection.

    There are theories suggesting that Nintendo may have retracted the VRR support for docked mode due to the necessary conversion from DisplayPort to HDMI for the dock’s display output. Nevertheless, the changes on the US and Canadian websites might just be a mistake, considering the device supports G-Sync (G-Sync compatible LG C3 Series 65-inch TV curr. $1,196.99 on Amazon).

    Pre-order Information

    In other news, Canadian retailers appear to have confirmed that pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 will begin on April 23, 2025. It’s still uncertain if this is also true for the US, but some retailers have indicated an earlier pre-order date than was previously expected.

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    Nintendo Reverses VRR Support for Switch 2 in Docked ModeNintendo Reverses VRR Support for Switch 2 in Docked Mode

     

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  • Valve Should Avoid Steam Deck 2 to Compete with Nintendo Switch 2

    Valve Should Avoid Steam Deck 2 to Compete with Nintendo Switch 2

    Key Takeaways

    1. Performance Comparison: The Nintendo Switch 2 may have advantages over the Steam Deck, particularly highlighted by demos like Cyberpunk 2077.

    2. Poll Results: Approximately 80% of gamers believe Valve should focus on developing a significantly upgraded Steam Deck 2.

    3. Switch 2 Specs: The Switch 2 is expected to feature a larger, higher-resolution screen and a powerful Nvidia Tegra T239 processor for better performance.

    4. Software Differences: The Switch 2 offers exclusive Nintendo titles that are not available on the Steam Deck, but its game library is smaller compared to Steam’s extensive collection.

    5. Usage Trends: Many Steam Deck owners currently use it as a secondary device and are not eager to switch to the Nintendo Switch 2.

    One of the hot topics right now is how the performance of the Nintendo Switch 2 stacks up against the Steam Deck. Demos like Cyberpunk 2077 have indicated that the specs of the Switch 2 might have certain advantages. This could mean that Valve is feeling more pressured to update their popular handheld device. A recent poll by PC Guide asked gamers if they believe the company should accelerate the development of the Steam Deck 2. The results show that most buyers are fine with waiting for a more substantial upgrade.

    Poll Findings

    About 80% of those who participated in the poll think that Valve should prioritize creating a Steam Deck 2 that represents a significant upgrade. This view aligns with what the manufacturer is planning. While there are no specifics available about the upcoming handheld, Valve hasn’t dismissed the idea of launching a new device in the future. Back in late 2024, SteamOS Designer Pierre-Loup Griffais mentioned that the company aims for a much faster and more efficient processor. Battery life remains a major concern, as the current market options aren’t living up to expectations.

    Comparing Specs

    The specifications of the Switch 2 feature a bigger, higher-resolution screen compared to both the Steam Deck and its OLED version. The rumored Nvidia Tegra T239 processor is expected to deliver better frame rates, particularly with upscaling. Despite this, Valve’s SteamOS has made its way onto newer devices like the Lenovo Legion Go S. Gamers can anticipate more powerful third-party SteamOS alternatives while they wait for the possibility of a Steam Deck 2.

    Software Differences

    The differences in software between the two systems are also quite significant. The Switch 2 has Nintendo exclusives like Mario Kart World that aren’t accessible on the Steam Deck. Additionally, Nintendo’s handheld is set to support popular PC and console games that were too demanding for the original Switch. However, its game library still falls short when compared to the Steam marketplace, which boasts over 100,000 titles. On the flip side, not every game on Steam is verified for the Steam Deck, which could pose challenges for gamers interested in cutting-edge graphics.

    Currently, many owners of SteamOS use the Steam Deck as a secondary gaming device instead of their main console. At this point, they don’t seem eager to change this setup for the Switch 2.

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    Valve Should Avoid Steam Deck 2 to Compete with Nintendo Switch 2
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  • Trump Tariffs Affect Nintendo Switch 2 and PS5, Supplier Says

    Trump Tariffs Affect Nintendo Switch 2 and PS5, Supplier Says

    Key Takeaways

    1. Trump announced a 145% tariff on electronics from China, negatively impacting U.S. companies like Apple.
    2. Initial exemptions for certain tech items were quickly retracted, meaning higher import fees for Chinese-made electronics will continue.
    3. Game consoles, including the Nintendo Switch 2, will not be exempt from the new tariffs, leading to potential price increases.
    4. Most Switch 2 consoles are manufactured in China, making it difficult for companies to avoid the tariffs.
    5. Nintendo has paused pre-orders for the Switch 2 in the U.S. and Canada, leaving the future price uncertain amidst potential cost increases.

    Trump has decided to place a 145% tariff on electronics from China, which is a big setback for U.S. companies such as Apple.

    Initial Relief and Subsequent Changes

    Over the weekend, there was a moment of relief when the U.S. government mentioned that some tech items, including smartphones and laptops, would be exempt from the new tariffs. However, this relief was short-lived as Trump later clarified that this exemption wouldn’t apply. Instead, electronics produced in China will be assigned to a different tariff category (according to BBC). Consequently, Chinese-made electronics will still incur higher import fees.

    Impact on Game Consoles

    Even if the exemption for certain devices like smartphones and laptops is upheld, game consoles are reportedly not included in this exemption. Consoles such as the Nintendo Switch 2 will still be subjected to the hefty 145% tariff. Nikkei Asia has claimed to have obtained an internal memo from a key supplier for both Apple and Nintendo, indicating that game consoles will face the 145% tariff regardless of the circumstances. This implies that products like the Switch 2 could see a notable hike in prices within the U.S. market.

    Manufacturing Concerns

    Adding to the challenges, a majority of the Switch 2 consoles are made in China. Although a smaller portion is produced in Vietnam, it isn’t enough to completely bypass the tariff. Sony also depends heavily on Chinese production for a large part of its PlayStation 5 manufacturing.

    In light of this situation, Nintendo has decided to halt pre-orders for the Switch 2 in both the U.S. and Canada. The company had initially aimed to start orders on April 9, but those intentions are now on pause with no new timeline provided.

    The Switch 2 was unveiled with a price of $499, but it remains uncertain whether Nintendo will maintain that price should tariffs increase production and shipping expenses.

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