How Much Will Switch 2 Cost? Nintendo Says It Needs to Consider ‘The Price Range That Consumers Expect for Nintendo Products’

Nintendo is meticulously considering various factors in setting the price for the upcoming Switch 2. While industry analysts have speculated to IGN that the console might launch at $400 later this year, Nintendo has not yet confirmed any pricing details.

In a recent investor Q&A, Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa addressed the pricing strategy, highlighting the complexities involved. "We are aware that, in addition to how inflation is currently proceeding, the exchange rate environment has also changed significantly since around the time we launched Nintendo Switch in 2017," Furukawa stated. He emphasized the importance of considering the price range that consumers expect for Nintendo products, indicating that a comprehensive evaluation of these factors is crucial in determining the Switch 2's price. "I cannot tell you a specific price for Nintendo Switch 2 at this time, but we are taking various factors into account," he added.

To better understand the pricing context, it's essential to consider the original Nintendo Switch's pricing history. Launched at $299.99, the original Switch maintained that price for several years. Now, nearly eight years later, consumer expectations for Nintendo product pricing are a significant factor. Competitors like Sony and Microsoft have recently adjusted their console prices upward due to inflation and currency fluctuations.

Analysts suggest that Nintendo might set the Switch 2's price at $400, an increase from the original Switch's $300 launch price, which remains unchanged outside of promotional offers. The Nintendo Switch OLED model is priced at $350, while the Nintendo Switch Lite costs $200. Although specific details about the Switch 2's specifications and features are scarce beyond Nintendo's brief video reveal, indications are that it will be a more powerful and possibly larger console, justifying a potential $400 price point.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

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Nintendo has scheduled a Switch 2 Direct for April 2, promising a deeper dive into the console's features following its initial reveal. The teaser showcased the Switch 2's design, hinted at a potential Mario Kart 9, and introduced a new 'mouse' mode for the Joy-Con. However, many questions remain unanswered, including the functionality of a new Joy-Con button, the console's power capabilities, and the purpose of new ports. Nintendo plans to offer Switch 2 hands-on events in various global locations to provide further insights.

Furukawa also confirmed that there are no plans to alter the pricing of the original Nintendo Switch, despite the impending launch of the Switch 2, suggesting stability in the current product lineup.