Nintendo has not traditionally focused on cutting-edge hardware, yet this strategy has not adversely affected its financial success—especially during the era of the Switch. Opting for simpler components in the 2017 Switch model enabled the company to offer a more affordable console compared to its rivals. It’s easy to overlook the absence of advanced features such as 4K at 60 frames per second when the latest Zelda can be enjoyed on a portable device priced under $200.

Now, with the arrival of a new Switch, comes a fresh price point. The Switch 2 promises enhanced capabilities, showcasing a range of improvements including a larger 1080p HDR screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, a dock featuring a cooling fan for 4K 60fps gameplay, and magnetic Joy-Cons equipped with a unique “mouse mode” for optimized tabletop play, among other exciting additions. However, these advancements come at a higher cost—this latest model does not maintain the price of its predecessor. Those interested in pre-ordering Nintendo’s cutting-edge console will need to dig deeper into their pockets.

The retail price for the Switch 2 has been set at $449.99. If you prefer a package that includes a digital version of Mario Kart World, the cost rises to $499.99. This marks a significant expense, particularly since a Switch OLED can currently be acquired for $250. The initial Switch was priced at $299.99, which translates to about $390 today after adjusting for inflation, making the price hike less striking than it may initially sound.

The specific factors behind the Switch 2’s pricing are unclear; however, it’s plausible that tariffs have influenced the cost structure. For instance, in Japan, the price of the Switch 2 stands at 49,980 yen, which equates to just over $333. The Mario Kart bundle in Japan retails for 53,980 yen, or approximately $360—still below the original MSRP of the Switch in today’s currency. An unexpected turn of events indeed.

Between the individual price of the Switch 2 and the Mario Kart World bundle, there’s a $50 gap, which suggests a potential price for the game. Unfortunately, that assumption is incorrect; Mario Kart World is listed at $80. Not all games might adhere to this pricing threshold, though. Noteworthy is that Geoff Keighley reports that Donkey Kong Bananza is priced at $70. As retail prices emerge for future titles, it’ll be interesting to observe how Nintendo navigates MSRP announcements. (Though precise pricing details are still forthcoming, the lineup of games for the Switch 2 is largely known, as highlighted in recent announcements.)

In fact, it’s possible that physical copies could be even more expensive. Reports indicate that Nintendo’s European listings for Mario Kart World show digital copies at €79.99, whereas the physical cartridge is priced at €89.99. Paying $90 for a physical game seems exorbitant, so it will be crucial to keep an eye out for additional pricing disclosures from Nintendo.

The official accessories page for the Switch 2 has launched, detailing the MSRPs for newly unveiled add-ons. Here’s a breakdown of expected prices:

• Switch 2 Pro Controller: $79.99

• Joy-Con 2 Set (Left and Right): $89.99

• Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip: $34.99

• Joy-Con 2 Strap: $12.99

• Joy-Con 2 Wheel (Pack of Two): $19.99

• Switch 2 Camera: $49.99

• Switch 2 Dock: $109.99

• Switch 2 Carrying Case with Screen Protector: $34.99

• Switch 2 All-in-One Case: $79.99

• Switch 2 AC Adapter: $29.99