Switch 2 Preorders Delayed Due to Tariff Concerns - Nintendo America President

Nintendo delayed U.S. preorders for the Switch 2, just days after unveiling the highly anticipated next-gen console. The move comes in direct response to a sweeping set of global tariffs announced by President Trump, which include steep import duties on goods from countries central to Nintendo’s supply chain.

"Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S. will not start April 9, 2025, in order to assess the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions," the company said in a statement on Friday, April 4. "Nintendo will update timing at a later date. The launch date of June 5, 2025, is unchanged."

The Switch 2 was revealed on April 2—the same day President Trump introduced a 10% baseline tariff on all imports, alongside country-specific increases: 24% on Japanese goods, 46% on Vietnam, and 54% on China. Nintendo manufactures across all three regions, making the new tariffs a direct threat to its production cost structure.

Pricing Under Pressure

In a recent interview with NPR, Nintendo of America President Doug Bowser acknowledged that the console’s announced pricing—$449 for the base model and $499 for the Mario Kart World bundle—was set before the tariff news dropped.

"Those prices were made based on previous tariffs," Bowser said. "Much like every other company in the U.S. right now, we're actively assessing what the impact may be."

Pressed on the 24% Japan-specific tariff, Bowser was measured: “We’re just watching and trying to understand what that impact might be and what actions we might have to take.”

So far, Nintendo hasn’t signaled any official price change, but it’s clear they’re keeping their options open.

Launch Date Stands—Inventory in Place

Despite the preorder delay, the Switch 2 is still set to launch on June 5, a decision Bowser said was strategic, targeting the start of the summer season.

“It's the start of summer season, and obviously, with a Nintendo Switch 2, you have a device that you can both play at home and play at home docked like a gaming console,” he said.

To avoid supply issues, Nintendo has already built up inventory in the US and is working to ensure scalping prevention measures are in place. The company is coordinating with retail partners and will prioritize existing Nintendo account holders for online purchases.

Manufacturing Strategy Under Review

The situation also highlights renewed scrutiny on Nintendo’s manufacturing footprint. Production is currently concentrated in Southeast Asia, but Bowser hinted that adjustments may come depending on how trade policies evolve.

“We’re always assessing where we should be manufacturing, based on volumes and broader economic considerations,” he explained.

Despite the current uncertainty, Bowser struck a confident tone about Nintendo’s ability to navigate the challenges ahead.

“We spent quite a bit of time with our suppliers making sure we have a long-term plan and a well-filled pipeline of materials,” he said. “We’re in a good position.”