In a social media statement, the company acknowledged the overwhelming response, stating that the number of applications “greatly exceeded” the volume of units available for initial shipment.
The intense demand for the Switch 2 underscores the continued popularity of Nintendo’s hybrid gaming platform, even as the company faces complex challenges surrounding global supply chain logistics and geopolitical tensions, including trade war uncertainties.
Adding to the intrigue, Nintendo had earlier paused pre-order activity in the United States, a move that fueled speculation about potential pricing adjustments or manufacturing constraints. However, the company later confirmed it would maintain the retail price at $449.99 in the U.S. market.
The Switch 2 represents a crucial next step for Nintendo, as it follows up on the tremendous commercial success of the original Switch, which has sold over 130 million units worldwide since its debut in 2017. Now, the pressure is on for Nintendo to manage its global rollout and scale production to meet surging consumer demand.
As launch day approaches, fans lucky enough to secure a unit through Japan’s lottery system will be among the first to experience what is expected to be Nintendo’s most powerful and feature-rich console yet. For the millions of others still waiting, the race is only just beginning.