Tag: Switch 2

April 25, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 GameCube Controller Price and Pre-Order Details
Key Takeaways
1. A new GameCube-style controller for the Switch 2 was revealed, priced at $64.99, and is designed for Switch Online GameCube titles.
2. Pre-orders for the Switch 2 and the GameCube controller start on May 8th for registered Nintendo account users, with wider access for Switch Online subscribers starting May 12th.
3. The controller will ship on June 5th, aligning with the Switch 2 launch date.
4. The controller may primarily support classic games through Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, but Nintendo confirmed it will also work with other games, despite potential compatibility issues.
5. The GameCube controller will connect wirelessly and include Home, Capture, and GameChat buttons, similar to the Switch 2 Pro and Joy-Cons.
A recent leak about the Switch 2 has stirred up excitement among retro gaming fans, thanks to a filing from the FCC for a new controller. After some images were released, many enthusiasts anticipated a GameCube-style controller. As expected, the Switch 2 Direct on April 2nd showcased a controller specifically made for Switch Online GameCube titles. Nintendo has revealed that the controller will be priced at $64.99. Additionally, those pre-ordering the Switch 2 will have the first chance to buy this new accessory.
Pre-Order Details
Starting May 8th, players who have registered Nintendo accounts will have the opportunity to secure a Switch 2 pre-order. At the same time, they can also order the GameCube controller. Following May 12th, more Switch Online subscribers will gain access to the accessory. The controller is set to be shipped on June 5th, which coincides with the launch date of the Switch 2.
Compatibility Confusion
There has been some uncertainty regarding whether the new controller will work with Switch 2 games. An article from Nintendo Life mentioned that it might only be compatible with classic games available through the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. Nevertheless, Nintendo has clarified that this controller will be usable with other games too. However, there could be some problems due to the distinct layout of the controller.
Some gamers are voicing that the price of $64.99 feels steep, especially since it’s intended for playing emulated GameCube games. Titles like The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker and Super Mario Sunshine should be enjoyable with this controller. Interestingly, despite the fact that many competitive Smash Bros. players still prefer GameCube controllers, the Nintendo Direct did not mention the series at all.
Wireless Connectivity
Even though it has a nostalgic look, the GameCube controller will connect wirelessly to the Switch 2. Players will also be able to use the Home, Capture, and GameChat buttons that are present on the Switch 2 Pro and Joy-Cons.
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Tags: GameCube Controller, Nintendo Online, Switch 2
April 24, 2025
Nintendo Apologizes for Inability to Meet Switch 2 Pre-Orders
Key Takeaways
1. High demand for the Switch 2 has led to over 2.2 million pre-orders in Japan, exceeding expectations.
2. Nintendo’s president apologized for not meeting demand and acknowledged the supply shortage.
3. Customers who missed the first lottery for pre-orders will be considered for a second round.
4. Nintendo is enhancing production methods to address the supply issues.
5. Pre-orders will also be available through various retailers and online shops after the launch.
Nintendo has released a new product that’s causing quite a stir, but it’s not entirely positive news. The Switch 2, the successor to the hugely popular hybrid console, has generated so much excitement in Japan that the company is already apologizing for not being able to satisfy the demand.
High Demand for Switch 2
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Nintendo’s president, Shuntaro Furukawa, admitted that the interest in the Switch 2 has “far exceeded” what they expected. Japan alone has seen over 2.2 million pre-orders for the console, with many people entering a lottery just to secure a spot for a pre-order through the My Nintendo Store. Furukawa mentioned that this number is much higher than what the company can supply by the launch date of June 5.
Nintendo’s Apology
Furukawa expressed regret, stating, “We deeply apologize for failing to meet your expectations despite our preparations.” The tone of the message was quite straightforward and unusually honest, which is actually refreshing for consumers. Instead of a vague response, Nintendo opted to clearly communicate the delay in shipments for the Switch 2, which many customers are likely to appreciate.
For those who did not get a pre-order in the first lottery, they will automatically be considered for a second round. However, Furukawa cautioned that even then, the supply may still fall short. The company is working on enhancing its production methods and will also begin accepting pre-orders and lottery entries for the Switch 2 from various game retailers and online shops across the country. The console will remain available through the My Nintendo Store after its launch.
Managing Expectations
It appears that only those fortunate enough to be chosen in the first lottery will be able to get their hands on the Switch 2 early. Nintendo seems to be attempting to deal with the repercussions of a demand issue that it has created itself. However, it will undoubtedly take some time to resolve this situation.
Tags: Nintendo, pre-orders, Switch 2
April 24, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Leaked Video Highlights Joy-Con Design
Key Takeaways
1. A clip showing the Nintendo Switch 2 in final testing stages has circulated online, revealing diagnostic details like battery level and reboot options.
2. The Switch 2 features detachable Joy-Cons held in place by magnets instead of slide rails, though some users noted a rattling noise when attached.
3. There are rumors about a Chinese individual trying to sell an early model of the Switch 2 to gain a competitive edge in accessories.
4. Nintendo has moved part of its production to Vietnam to avoid tariffs and may have over a million consoles stored in US warehouses before the June 5th release.
5. Regulatory issues have led Nintendo to halt launch plans for the Switch 2 in China, despite high demand from Chinese gamers.
With Nintendo speeding up the production of the Switch 2, it was probably only a matter of time before a unit slipped out of the factory. A clip circulating on Chinese social media shows some people looking over the handheld device. In the opening moments of the video, viewers can see diagnostic details such as the battery level and options for rebooting or shutting down the console. This suggests that the device was likely in its final testing stages before retail software was added. Much of the discussion in the video focuses on the design of the Switch 2 and its Joy-Cons.
Insights on Joy-Cons
The newest leak regarding the Switch 2 does not bring forth many surprises about what Nintendo has planned for the new handheld. Throughout the short clip, the people handling the device seem particularly intrigued by the detachable Joy-Cons. One individual takes off the right controller and informs the other that it releases via a button on the back. A significant change in the Switch 2’s specifications is that the controllers are held in place with magnets instead of slide rails. However, the participants in the video mention that the console makes a rattling noise when the Joy-Cons are attached.
Speculations and Rumors
It’s not clear what the individuals in the leaked footage plan to do with the handheld device. A rumor from January mentioned a Chinese person who wanted to sell a version of the console to an accessories manufacturer. Any company with an early model of the Switch 2 would have a competitive edge. Following US tariffs, Nintendo increased the prices of Joy-Cons and other related accessories. As a result, the need for more affordable options has grown stronger.
Production and Release
Reports indicate that Nintendo has shifted part of its production from China to Vietnam to sidestep tariffs. By the end of February, there might have been over a million consoles stored in US warehouses. So far, it looks like these units have remained safe in advance of the Switch 2’s release on June 5th. Nevertheless, it appears that Chinese gamers are particularly eager to get their hands on the handheld. Nintendo has halted launch plans in China due to regulatory issues.
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Tags: Joy-Cons, Nintendo, Switch 2
April 24, 2025
Switch 2 Pre-Order Lottery Sees 2.2 Million Applications in Japan
Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo’s CEO, Shuntaro Furukawa, announced 2.2 million applicants for the Switch 2 pre-order lottery in Japan, indicating high demand.
2. The number of applications exceeded Nintendo’s expectations, far surpassing the available consoles for the first round of pre-orders.
3. Customers who do not secure a console in the first round will have their applications automatically carried over to a second round, but demand will still likely exceed supply.
4. Nintendo is working to strengthen its production system to better meet future demand for the Switch 2 and will continue to produce and ship units.
5. Pre-orders in the US will begin on April 24th, with the console priced at $449.99 and set to release on June 5th, 2025.
Nintendo’s Japanese account on X recently put out an official message from Shuntaro Furukawa, the CEO, stating that the company has received 2.2 million applicants for the Switch 2 pre-order lottery in Japan alone.
High Demand for Switch 2
Furukawa mentioned that even though they are “proceeding with production in advance,” the number of applications was “extremely large,” reaching around 2.2 million people just in Japan. This figure greatly surpassed what Nintendo had expected and is much higher than the amount of Nintendo Switch 2 consoles that will be available from the My Nintendo Store on June 5th.
Second Round of Pre-orders
Nintendo noted that a “significant number of customers” will not be able to get their console in the first round, but the My Nintendo Store will automatically carry those applications over to the second round. Despite this, the company clarified that even with the extra units for the second lottery, they still won’t be able to meet all the demand.
Furukawa also stated that they are “currently working on further stregthening our production system” to better meet demand in the future. Nintendo plans to keep “producing and shipping a considerable number of Nintendo Switch 2 units” going forward. Additionally, they confirmed that third-party retailers will be starting their pre-orders soon.
Pre-order Details
According to The Verge, the original Nintendo Switch had sold 360,000 units in its opening week in Japan. Pre-orders in the US are set to kick off on April 24th, following a slight delay due to US tariffs. The console will retail in the US at its initial price of $449.99. The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to release on June 5th, 2025.
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Tags: Nintendo, Pre-order, Switch 2
April 23, 2025
Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered Coming to Nintendo Switch 2
Key Takeaways
1. Bethesda surprise-launched The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, leaving Nintendo players feeling excluded from the excitement.
2. A leaker suggests that Bethesda may bring the remaster to the Nintendo Switch 2, which has improved specs for handling demanding games.
3. Caution is advised regarding the leaker’s credibility, as their history is not perfect, but Bethesda’s past support for Nintendo consoles is promising.
4. The Steam Deck is currently the best portable option for playing Oblivion Remastered, but performance is mixed, with framerates often dropping below 30 fps.
5. Early performance insights for demanding games on Switch 2 show better stability compared to Steam Deck, raising hopes for Oblivion Remastered’s performance on the new console.
There was a lot of buzz when Bethesda surprise-launched The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered across various platforms. Yet, many Nintendo players feel excluded from all the excitement. With the improved specs of the Switch 2, it’s possible that demanding games could run well on this console. A leaker known as eXtas1stv has hinted that Bethesda is looking to bring the remaster of this beloved action RPG to the handheld device.
Caution is Key
Gamers should be careful since eXtas1stv doesn’t have a perfect history. Nevertheless, it would be shocking if Bethesda chose not to develop for the Switch 2. After all, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim was released on the original Switch within its first year. With not many launch titles for Nintendo, the company is relying on third-party Switch 2 games to help increase sales.
Steam Deck Experience
At this moment, the Steam Deck is the most favored way to enjoy The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered on the go. Currently, reviews about how well it performs on the Valve handheld are mixed. Even though the game is verified for Steam Deck, players often notice framerates dipping below 30 fps in open-world scenarios while in performance mode. This situation has led some Nintendo fans to question how the game will operate with the enhanced specs of the Switch 2.
Performance Insights
Looking at the footage from Cyberpunk 2077, it seems that demanding games on the Switch 2 can run quite well. In certain modes, players have reported achieving a stable 40 fps, especially with the DLSS upscaling option. These results appear to be a bit better compared to what many Steam Deck users are experiencing. However, the open-world title Star Wars Outlaws could need additional optimization before its release on September 4th.
In the lead-up to the official announcement, leaks about The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered were constant. Most of the rumors turned out to be true, and now buyers of the Switch 2 are hopeful that eXtas1stv will keep up this pattern.
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Tags: Bethesda, Elder Scrolls IV, Switch 2
April 19, 2025
Assassin’s Creed Shadows on Nintendo Switch 2: PEGI Rating Leak
Key Takeaways
1. Speculation about Assassin’s Creed Shadows possibly being ported to the Switch 2 has increased after it earned a PEGI age rating.
2. Assassin’s Creed Shadows ranks high on the PEGI website, but details are currently unclear, suggesting potential database updates are needed.
3. Nash Weedle claimed the game could be a launch title for the Switch 2 in summer 2024, with further leaks indicating Ubisoft plans to release over a dozen titles for the console.
4. The improved specs of the Switch 2, including a quicker GPU, allow for ports with advanced graphics, attracting interest from developers like Ubisoft.
5. Assassin’s Creed Shadows is Steam Deck Verified, but players may need to lower settings to achieve satisfactory performance, raising questions about its performance on the Switch 2.
Upgraded Switch 2 specs have opened doors for demanding third-party games. Although Nintendo did not present Assassin’s Creed Shadows during the Direct on April 2nd, there are whispers about a possible port. The game has now earned a PEGI age rating, which has sparked excitement for an official reveal.
Popular Searches on PEGI
Assassin’s Creed Shadows ranks high on the PEGI website’s popular searches. While it features a Nintendo Switch 2 label on the homepage, details do not appear when you click on the title. This might indicate a mistake in the database or that the site requires more updates. Regardless, speculation about Assassin’s Creed Shadows being a Switch 2 title dates back to early 2024.
Anticipated Launch Title
Nash Weedle mentioned that Ubisoft’s action RPG would be a launch title for Switch 2 in the summer of 2024. Later, a leak from NatetheHate in early 2025 suggested that Ubisoft was planning to bring over a dozen games to the new console. The release of Assassin’s Creed Shadows faced another setback last year, which explains its absence as a launch title. With Ubisoft’s Star Wars Outlaws set to release on September 4th for the handheld, fans might see an Assassin’s Creed Shadows announcement soon.
Enhanced Graphics Capabilities
Thanks to a quicker GPU, Nintendo can now accommodate ports featuring advanced graphics as part of the improved Switch 2 specs. On the other hand, Ubisoft is likely eager to maintain the positive momentum generated by Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Even though the company faced financial challenges, the game achieved remarkable sales figures.
While Assassin’s Creed Shadows is Steam Deck Verified, players often need to reduce settings significantly to hit 30 fps. Following Cyberpunk 2077’s demos, which showed some improvements over the Valve handheld, gamers are keen to discover how well it will run on the Switch 2.
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Tags: Assassin’s Creed: Shadows, Switch 2, Ubisoft
April 19, 2025
Rune Factory FAQ: Some Switch 2 Cartridges Compatible with Switch
Key Takeaways
1. Switch 2 Edition games may have compatibility with the original Switch, as seen with Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma.
2. Players can enjoy enhanced graphics and features on the Switch 2 while still playing Switch 2 Edition games on their existing console.
3. The design of Switch 2 cartridges includes notches, but some may still work on the original Switch, raising questions about their purpose.
4. Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma will be available on a 64 GB cartridge, allowing for support across multiple console versions.
5. There is uncertainty about the overall adaptability of future Switch 2 Edition games, despite the initial expectations.
Just when players thought they had a grip on how Switch 2 Edition games functioned, things got murkier. An FAQ for Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma made a notable statement about the cartridge included. Developer Marvelous disclosed that the Switch 2 Edition cartridge actually has a version for the original Switch. Now, Nintendo enthusiasts are curious whether other Switch 2 games will provide this same benefit.
Compatibility Confusions
Games that are designed specifically for the Switch 2 might not run on the older model. Nevertheless, Switch 2 Edition games such as Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma could be an exception to this rule. These games are standard Switch titles with extra content and improvements to utilize the better specs of the Switch 2. What is surprising is that the physical cartridges are compatible with the original Switch.
New Possibilities for Gamers
This new information opens doors for gamers thinking about pre-ordering the Switch 2. With potential shortages in sight, players can get a Switch 2 Edition game and play it on their existing console. Then, if a gamer is lucky enough to get their hands on the new Nintendo system, they can enjoy enhanced graphics. In the case of Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma, there’s also the added benefit of Joy-Con mouse functionality. Additionally, players can share Switch 2 games with friends or family who still own the original Switch.
Cartridge Design Speculations
As the Switch 2 release date approaches, gamers found out that cartridges made for the console will feature notches. There was speculation that this design would stop the media from functioning on the original Switch. The cartridge for Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma might have a different design, or the notch could serve an alternate purpose.
Marvelous also pointed out that the Switch 2 Edition will be available on a 64 GB cartridge. Previous rumors indicated that publishers could only select between 8 GB and 64 GB options. While the Rune Factory game may not need the full 64 GB, this larger size allows the cartridge to support versions for several consoles.
The FAQ might include a mistake, but at the moment, it seems that some Switch 2 Edition games are turning out to be more adaptable than initially thought.
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Tags: Nintendo, Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma, Switch 2
April 18, 2025
Strong Switch 2 Launch Titles Boosted by Ex-Nintendo Praise
Key Takeaways
1. Concerns about insufficient marketing details for the Switch 2, particularly regarding price and game information.
2. Nintendo is focusing on a main first-party game, with Mario Kart World featured prominently in marketing and bundles.
3. The Switch 2 will launch with over 20 titles, including enhanced versions of popular games and GameCube classics for subscribers.
4. Notable third-party games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Hogwarts Legacy will be available at launch, supported by the Switch 2’s upgraded specs.
5. Tariffs and unclear pricing and pre-order details may dampen excitement for North American customers.
Kit & Krysta have expressed some concerns about Nintendo’s approach to marketing its upcoming console. A lot of feedback has pointed out the insufficient details regarding the price of the Switch 2 and the games. Nevertheless, during a recent podcast, the former Nintendo PR managers commended the variety of launch titles for the Switch 2. While there’s a strong focus on third-party games, the overall selection is broad enough to attract those willing to buy early.
Single First-Party Focus
The podcast highlighted that, similar to the original Switch, Nintendo is centering its attention on a main first-party game. Back in 2017, pre-launch videos prominently featured The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Fast forward eight years, and this time, Mario Kart World takes the spotlight and is included in a Switch 2 bundle. Unlike with the previous console, where Nintendo had to persuade Wii U owners to switch to a hybrid handheld, the launch games for Switch 2 aim to convert existing Switch users to an improved model. Another plus is backward compatibility, which was something the Wii U didn’t offer.
More Launch Titles
Reflecting on the Switch’s launch, there were nine initial games available, or ten if you count the two Shovel Knight titles as separate. For the Switch 2, buyers will have over 20 options to choose from. Among the titles, there are Switch 2 Edition games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, now with enhanced performance. Additionally, those who subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online+ Expansion Pack can enjoy new GameCube classics.
Third-Party Games and Tariff Issues
Notable third-party games, such as Cyberpunk 2077 and Hogwarts Legacy, will also be launched alongside Nintendo’s new console. With the upgraded specs of the Switch 2, it seems that resource-heavy games are finally feasible. However, Kit & Krysta pointed out that many of these titles have been around on other platforms for a while now.
The excitement around Nintendo’s handheld has been slightly dampened by the effects of tariffs. Even though the launch titles for the Switch 2 are impressive, the pricing and pre-order details remain unclear for customers in North America.
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Tags: Mario Kart World, Nintendo, Switch 2
April 17, 2025
Nintendo Rep Cautions on High Price of Mario Kart World DLC
Key Takeaways
1. High Game Pricing: Mario Kart World is priced at a minimum of $80, adding to the $450 console cost, which exceeds many gamers’ expectations.
2. DLC Concerns: There are worries about potential DLC that may reuse old characters and tracks, raising questions about the value of new content.
3. Need for Transparency: Former Nintendo PR Manager Krysta Yang stressed the importance of Nintendo being clear about future costs for Mario Kart World content.
4. Competing Pricing Strategies: Unlike other companies that bundle past titles with DLC, Nintendo is charging separately for the Expansion Pass on new versions of existing games.
5. Customer Anxiety: Gamers are concerned about potential tariff increases affecting the price and pre-orders for the Switch 2, hoping Mario Kart World will offer long-lasting entertainment without extra costs.
Gamers are not happy about the pricing of some Switch 2 games, like Mario Kart World. This kart racing game is priced at a minimum of $80, which is in addition to the $450 cost of the console itself, making it slightly pricier than what many had expected. There are worries too about DLC that might reuse old characters and tracks. In a recent podcast, Krysta Yang, a former PR Manager at Nintendo, warned that launching the game with extra paid content could be a mistake.
Past Support for Mario Kart
Mario Kart 8 has seen DLC since its days on the Wii U. The Switch’s Mario Kart 8 Deluxe included this content and brought in new racers, tracks, and modes. Alongside some free updates, the $24.99 Booster Course Pack gave the game a fresh boost. However, there’s no confirmation that Nintendo will offer DLC when Mario Kart World hits the market. Still, fans are eagerly looking forward to the Mario Kart World Direct on April 17th to get more details on what might be in store.
Transparency is Key
In the Kit & Krysta podcast, Yang emphasized the importance of Nintendo being clear about the costs of future Mario Kart World content. Bill Trinen, Vice President of Nintendo of America, hinted that the game would have plenty to offer even without DLC. He suggested that this game will be the most comprehensive Mario Kart experience so far. Just the open-world gameplay might be enough to encourage players to spend $80.
Nintendo is also under fire for the prices of DLC for other Switch 2 titles. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild will have a version that utilizes the new console’s enhanced specs. However, the $70 Switch 2 version won’t come with any bonus content that was released earlier. Instead, fans need to buy the Expansion Pass for an extra $20. While other companies often bundle past titles with DLC when they re-release them, Nintendo is choosing a different route.
Concerns Over Pricing and Pre-orders
Customers are already anxious with tariffs possibly increasing the price of the Switch 2 and causing delays in pre-orders. It is hoped that Mario Kart World will provide entertainment for players for months, if not years, without requiring additional spending.
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Tags: Mario Kart World, Nintendo, Switch 2
April 16, 2025
Canadian Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Order Date Leaked for U.S. Gamers
Key Takeaways
1. The pre-order date for the Switch 2 in Canada has been delayed to April 23rd, originally set for April 9th, due to new tariffs.
2. Well-known leaker billbil-kun warns that pre-order dates can change and emphasizes the unreliability of retail sources for leaks.
3. U.S. gamers are receiving mixed signals about pre-order dates, with suggested dates of either April 21st or 30th, and potential updates expected during the Mario Kart World Direct on April 17th.
4. Pricing concerns for the Switch 2 are rising due to Trump Tariffs, with Sony already increasing prices for its consoles in some regions.
5. Nintendo is shifting some production to Vietnam to mitigate import costs, but reports suggest this may not fully prevent future price increases for the Switch 2.
The pre-order date for the Switch 2 in Canada was initially set for April 9th, but Nintendo has since announced a delay. This change coincided with new tariffs from Trump, leaving many Canadian gamers frustrated, as they felt it wasn’t their government’s doing. Nintendo clarified that it was trying to align the console’s launch between both Canada and the U.S. Nevertheless, well-known leaker billbil-kun now states that Canadian pre-orders will start on April 23rd.
Predictions and Cautions
Billbil-kun has been quite successful in his predictions about game announcements, such as for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach. However, he does caution that the pre-order date for the Switch 2 might change. His information comes from a retailer, and it’s important to remember that retail sources can be unreliable when it comes to Switch 2 leaks. On the day of the Nintendo Direct, a Canadian Best Buy even published a blog post claiming a pre-order date of April 2nd, which was later found to be incorrect and removed.
Mixed Signals for U.S. Gamers
In addition, billbil-kun has shared varying reports for gamers in the U.S. He has received hints from North American retailers about pre-order dates, suggesting either April 21st or 30th, depending on the store. A recent look into Target’s backend indicated an April 30th date, but this might just be a placeholder. Some gamers are hoping that the Mario Kart World Direct on April 17th will give more clarity. Meanwhile, pre-orders are already active in countries like the UK and Australia.
Pricing Worries
Another issue for North American gamers is the price of the Nintendo Switch 2. After the significant Trump Tariffs on China, Sony increased the price of its console in certain areas. Nintendo has attempted to protect itself from import costs by shifting some of its production to Vietnam, and a considerable number of its handheld devices have already been sent to the U.S. from there. Unfortunately, Nikkei Asia suggests that this move might not be sufficient to prevent future price increases for the Switch 2.
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Tags: billbil-kun, Nintendo, Switch 2