The reveal of the Nintendo Switch 2 brought with it a wave of excitement, particularly around its impressive graphical capabilities. Fans were treated to glimpses of expansive new titles like the open-world *Mario Kart World*, the long-awaited return of Donkey Kong in a leading role, and the intriguingly dark action title *The Duskbloods*. Yet despite all this, one topic has dominated the conversation more than any game or feature—the price.
At $449.99, the console itself isn’t unreasonable by 2025 standards, but the total cost of entry is where concerns begin. To truly enjoy what the Switch 2 has to offer, you’ll need to invest in games, accessories, and potentially subscriptions—each adding up quickly. So, is Nintendo asking too much for its latest hardware and software lineup? Let’s break it down.
The Cost of Games
One of the most talked-about elements of the Switch 2 launch lineup is the $80 price tag attached to *Mario Kart World*. In an industry where $60–$70 has become standard, $80 raises eyebrows. Considering that Mario Kart is expected to be the must-have title at launch, some feel Nintendo is taking advantage of its own popularity. Add a second pair of Joy-Cons for multiplayer fun at $90 and a required Nintendo Online membership for online features, and the costs start piling up fast.
The presentation heavily emphasized 24-player co-op, GameChat integration, and enhanced photo modes—but without the proper accessories and subscription, those features remain out of reach. It’s hard not to see this as a calculated move rather than a purely consumer-focused experience.
Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery
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Is $80 Worth It?
On the flip side, there's a strong argument to be made for value over time. If history repeats itself and *Mario Kart World* becomes the only major entry in the series on the Switch 2 (like *Mario Kart 8* before it), then $80 could be justified by years of entertainment. Compared to free-to-play games like Fortnite, where players often spend similar amounts over time on cosmetics and battle passes, $80 for a full-fledged game doesn’t seem unreasonable.
Even when compared to family outings—like a trip to the movies costing just as much for far fewer hours of enjoyment—it makes sense why some might still jump on board. Still, the concern remains that Nintendo may be setting a troubling precedent, especially with other major titles like *Kirby and the Forgotten Land* and *The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom* also priced at $80 on Switch 2.
Console Upgrade Pricing Strategy
Sony has already paved the way with PS4-to-PS5 upgrades, typically charging around $10 for enhanced versions of existing games. If Nintendo follows suit, many would find that acceptable—especially if the upgrade brings 4K resolution, improved frame rates, and added content. However, should Nintendo charge $20 or more, players may think twice before upgrading their digital libraries.
For example, *Tears of the Kingdom* can currently be purchased for $52 on the original Switch, yet the Switch 2 version will retail at $80. If the upgrade fee turns out to be close to that difference, many may opt to buy the original and wait for a potential discount instead.
Nintendo Online + Expansion Pack
Another point of interest is the inclusion of enhanced versions of *Breath of the Wild* and *Tears of the Kingdom* within the Nintendo Online + Expansion Pack, which costs $49.99 annually. As part of a subscription service, this could be seen as a fair deal—though the catch is that access may be revoked upon cancellation, leaving players back in the original game’s performance tier until resubscription.
Welcome Tour – A Missed Opportunity
Perhaps the most puzzling decision was the choice to charge for *Switch 2 Welcome Tour*, a virtual exhibition filled with mini-games. This kind of experience feels like it should be included with the system—much like how *Astro’s Playroom* came free on every PlayStation 5. Charging for such a feature seems tone-deaf, especially when it serves as an introduction to the new console.
Final Thoughts
While the Switch 2 doesn’t represent a step backward for Nintendo, the pricing strategy surrounding the console, games, and upgrades has certainly raised eyebrows. With a strong library and solid hardware improvements, Nintendo still holds considerable goodwill. But if the company continues pushing higher price points without clear justification, it risks alienating fans who have supported it through past generations.
Let’s hope Nintendo listens to the feedback and avoids making $80 the new standard without offering true value in return.
