The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025, and it's expected to be in high demand. To ensure that genuine Switch enthusiasts get their hands on the new console, Nintendo is implementing a strategic pre-order system through the My Nintendo Store. If you're a fan eager to secure your Switch 2, here's what you need to know.
On the My Nintendo Store, individuals with a Nintendo Account can express their interest in pre-ordering the Nintendo Switch 2 system along with "select accessories." Once your turn comes up, you'll receive an invitation email, which remains valid for 72 hours. However, there's a catch: you must have been an active user of your current Switch and a member of Nintendo Switch Online.
According to the fine print on the site, "Invitation emails will be prioritized on a first-come, first-served basis to registrants who have purchased a Nintendo Switch Online membership with a minimum of 12 months of paid membership and a minimum of 50 total gameplay hours, as of April 2, 2025." This ensures that those who have been loyal to the Switch ecosystem get priority.
Nintendo also emphasizes that these invitations are "non-transferable" and will be sent to the email address linked to the Nintendo Account that registered interest. There's a one-per-account limit for both the system and each accessory during the invitation period. You can express interest in either a base Nintendo Switch 2 system or one bundled with Mario Kart World.
Once you place your order, it will be shipped after purchase, and you'll receive an approximate shipping date at the time of ordering. Nintendo clarifies that "release-day delivery is not guaranteed due to processing and shipment times."
While Nintendo hasn't explicitly stated it, these measures seem designed to ensure that the Switch 2 goes to those who intend to use it for gaming, rather than those looking to resell it at a profit.
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow
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Scalping has been a persistent issue with new releases of popular products. Both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S faced significant scalping, and the Pokémon Trading Card Game has been dealing with ongoing shortages and scalping issues.
Valve successfully managed this problem with its Steam Deck by implementing a queue system that linked purchases to Steam accounts and checked the account's creation date. It's no surprise that Nintendo is adopting a similar approach with the My Nintendo Store process.
While there will be other avenues to purchase the Switch 2, this pre-order system offers a promising way for long-time Switch 1 owners to secure their new console without the chaos typically associated with launch day pre-orders.
