Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders: Everything You Need to Know
After a temporary postponement as Nintendo assessed the ongoing tariff implications, preorders for the Switch 2 are officially back on track. The announcement was made last week, allowing retailers to prepare for what is expected to be a high-demand rush.
If you’re keen on acquiring the newest Nintendo handheld-console hybrid, several retailers will be available for your preorder needs. Below are the details about when each store will commence their preorder process, ensuring you can reserve your unit ahead of the crowd.
Walmart
Walmart will begin accepting preorders for the Switch 2 starting April 24 at midnight ET. While the retailer offers a wide array of games and accessories for the console, you can conveniently preorder the console or opt for the special Mario Kart World bundle.
The store is promoting free delivery by 9 a.m. on June 5 for those who order right away, making it the only retailer offering this level of assurance.
Target
Target will also launch its preorders at midnight on April 24. Although there’s no guaranteed timeframe for delivery, customers can preorder the standalone version, the Mario Kart World bundle, and a variety of games and accessories.
GameStop
GameStop is eagerly anticipating the upcoming midnight launch events for the Switch 2 slated for June. However, their preorder process will not begin at midnight. Instead, customers can start preordering the console in-store as soon as the locations open, or at 11 a.m. ET on April 24, which is significantly later than other stores.
This could make GameStop a reliable backup option if you face difficulties securing a preorder from other retailers. Like others, you can order the console by itself or bundle it with Mario Kart World.
Best Buy
Best Buy will also initiate preorders at midnight on April 24. The offerings will largely mirror those at other retailers, including the opportunity to secure the console, the bundle, and various accessories and games.
Nintendo
Nintendo itself offers a unique opportunity to preorder the Switch 2 directly. However, the process differs slightly from a traditional preorder system—it involves expressing interest rather than guaranteeing a unit immediately. Following your registration, Nintendo will reach out with an “invitation” to purchase the console should you be chosen.
To qualify for selection, potential buyers must adhere to specific criteria. To deter scalpers, Nintendo has made it necessary for interested customers to link their Nintendo accounts during registration. Each account must have at least 50 hours of playtime logged as of April 2; newly created accounts or those without sufficient playtime will not be eligible.
If you fit the necessary criteria, giving this option a shot could be worthwhile—though securing a preorder through one of the other retailers might be the more straightforward route.