The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025, and it's expected to be in high demand. To ensure that genuine fans can secure their pre-orders, Nintendo is introducing specific measures through the My Nintendo Store. If you have a Nintendo Account, you can register your interest in pre-ordering the Nintendo Switch 2 system and selected accessories directly from the official Nintendo store. Once your turn comes up, you'll receive an invitation email that's valid for 72 hours.
However, there's a catch: you need to have been an active user of your existing Switch console and a member of Nintendo Switch Online. According to the fine print on the site, "Invitation emails will be prioritized on a first-come, first-served basis to registrants who have purchased a Nintendo Switch Online membership with a minimum of 12 months of paid membership and a minimum of 50 total gameplay hours, as of April 2, 2025." These invitations are non-transferable and will be sent to the email linked to your Nintendo Account. There's a one-per-account limit for both the system and each accessory during the invitation period. You can express interest in either a base Nintendo Switch 2 system or the bundle that includes Mario Kart World.
Once you place your order, it will be shipped post-purchase, with an approximate shipping date provided at the time of ordering. Nintendo clarifies that "release-day delivery is not guaranteed due to processing and shipment times." These steps seem designed to ensure that those who buy a Switch 2 through this process genuinely intend to use it for gaming, rather than reselling it online.
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow
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Scalping has been a persistent issue with new releases of popular products, as seen with the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, as well as the Pokémon Trading Card Game. Valve had success with its queue system for the Steam Deck, using a method that linked purchases to Steam accounts and checked account creation dates. It's no surprise to see Nintendo adopting similar strategies with the My Nintendo Store process.
While there will be other avenues to acquire a Switch 2, these measures could help long-time Switch owners navigate the potential frenzy of securing a pre-order on launch day.
