Nintendo has officially announced the pre-order date and pricing details for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 console and its accessories. While the console's price remains unchanged, the cost of accessories has seen a significant increase, prompting a mixed reaction from early adopters and potentially influencing their pre-order decisions.
The base model of the Nintendo Switch 2 is priced at $449.99, with the bundle including Mario Kart World set at $499.99. Mario Kart World, a popular kart racing game, continues to be available as a standalone purchase for $79.99, while Donkey Kong Bananza is priced at $69.99.
However, the real surprise comes with the accessory pricing, which has seen a broad increase. Here's a detailed breakdown:
- Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller - $84.99
- Joy-Con 2 Pair - $94.99
- Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip - $39.99
- Joy-Con 2 Strap - $13.99
- Joy-Con 2 Wheel Set - $24.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 Camera - $54.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 Dock Set - $119.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector - $39.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case - $84.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 AC Adapter - $34.99
In their official announcement, Nintendo explained that the "price adjustments from those announced on April 2 are due to changes in market conditions." Notably, high-ticket items like the Joy-Con 2 Pair, Switch 2 Pro Controller, and the camera have seen a $5 increase, while the Switch 2 Dock Set has jumped by $10 to $119.99 from its previous $109.99.
The community has been vocal about the increased cost of accessories, particularly the Joy-Con 2 Pair, which is now just $5 shy of a triple-digit price. This has left many prospective buyers puzzled and reconsidering their plans.
However, there's a silver lining for those who already own Switch 1 accessories. Nintendo's support site confirms that several accessories, including the original Joy-Con controllers and the Nintendo Switch 1 Pro controller, will be compatible with the Switch 2. While the original Joy-Cons cannot be directly attached, they can be wirelessly paired, as can the Switch 1 Pro controller. Additionally, classic controllers like those for the Super Nintendo and N64 will remain usable with compatible games.
Still compatible bbyyyy pic.twitter.com/lbPJiF1ARO
— Pokmar (@Pokmar03) April 2, 2025
Social media is abuzz with discussions about the compatibility of Switch 1 accessories and the potential use of third-party controllers. While these alternatives may not offer all the features of the Switch 2 controllers, such as the C-button or the ability to wake the console, they could be a cost-effective option for some buyers.
Nintendo has also cautioned that future price adjustments are possible, stating, "Other adjustments to the price of any Nintendo product are also possible in the future depending on market conditions." This news might be a relief for those who already own a Pro controller and can continue using it with the Switch 2.
Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 will commence on April 24, 2025.