The much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 is set to hit the market on June 5, 2025, and it's expected to be in high demand right from the start. To manage this, Nintendo has introduced a strategic pre-order system on the official Nintendo Store aimed at ensuring that genuine Switch enthusiasts get their hands on the new console.
Through the My Nintendo Store, users with a Nintendo Account can express their interest in pre-ordering the Nintendo Switch 2 system along with select accessories. Those who sign up will receive an invitation email when it's their turn to pre-order, and they'll have 72 hours to complete the purchase. However, there's a catch: to be eligible, you must have spent significant time on your current Switch and be a member of Nintendo Switch Online.
According to the details provided 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 means that only dedicated Switch users will have the first shot at securing a pre-order.
Nintendo has made it clear that these invitations are "non-transferable" and will be sent to the email addresses linked to the registering Nintendo Account. Additionally, there's a limit of one console and one of each accessory per account during the invitation period. Currently, interested parties can choose between a standard Nintendo Switch 2 system or a bundle that includes Mario Kart World.
After placing an order, customers will receive an estimated shipping date, but Nintendo notes that "release-day delivery is not guaranteed due to processing and shipment times." These measures suggest Nintendo's intent to ensure that the Switch 2 ends up with gamers who want to play, not with scalpers 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 popular product launches, as seen with the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, as well as with the Pokémon Trading Card Game. Valve managed to mitigate this problem with its Steam Deck by implementing a queue system that linked purchases to Steam accounts and checked account creation dates. Nintendo's approach with the My Nintendo Store seems to draw inspiration from such successful strategies.
While the My Nintendo Store isn't the only way to secure a Nintendo Switch 2, it provides a valuable option for long-time Switch users to avoid the frenzy of launch day pre-orders.
