Nintendo Implements Anti-Scalper Plan for Switch 2 Preorders

In order to counteract scalpers, Nintendo is implementing prerequisites for Switch 2 preorders, limiting preorders to prior Switch 1 owners with an active Switch Online Membership for “at least two years continuously by March 31, 2025.” 

Users must also opt in to receive promotional emails and messages from Nintendo on the day the invitation email is sent. In addition, they must have “spent a certain amount of time playing purchased/paid Nintendo Switch games, prioritizing those with more playtime.” Players must share usage information with Nintendo, and agree to customize offers and recommendations from Nintendo.  

Nintendo Switch 2 preorders open on April 9, 2025. The official release for the console is on June 5, 2025, costing consumers $449.99 to acquire the upcoming console. 

The Nintendo Switch 2 will feature 256 GB of internal storage. A bundle including Mario Kart World will be available for $499.99. For those looking to expand their storage, the console will support microSD Express cards, which maintain the same form factor as the original Switch’s microSD cards but offer SSD-like speeds. These cards start at approximately $45 for a 128 GB model and $60 for a 256 GB version. While the Switch 2 is compatible with most Switch games, you’ll need a microSD Express card to play any game on the new console.

Considering that the original Nintendo Switch sold over 150 million units, securing its place as the third best-selling game console of all time, the Nintendo Switch 2 faces immense expectations from both players and its creators.