Nintendo Fans Counter Scalpers with Fake Switch 2 Listings on eBay

Nintendo enthusiasts are fighting back against scalpers by posting fake Nintendo Switch 2 listings on auction platforms, overwhelming sites and making it harder for buyers to spot scalper deals.

Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders are appearing across platforms like eBay, with prices for the much-awaited console ranging from $500 to $2,000.

U.S. Nintendo fans have united in their frustration over the pre-order delays and the flood of overpriced eBay listings, working together to undermine scalpers. With the Switch 2 launch set for June 5, now less than 40 days away, scalpers can list their inflated pre-orders, provided they note the pre-order will ship within 40 business days of purchase.

To obscure these listings, Nintendo fans are creating fake auctions at retail prices or below, pushing scalper posts further down the search results.

Consider this example listing. Titled "Nintendo Switch v2 video games console PREORDER," it’s priced at $450, which seems reasonable.

However, the description clarifies: "PRE-ORDER SCREENSHOT Please note: You are purchasing a picture of the Nintendo Switch 2. This listing aims to counter bots and scalpers. No refunds. No cancellations. You will receive a PNG image of a Switch 2. No console."

Fake listings from frustrated fans are often distinguishable from scalper posts, typically including "read description" in the title to signal they’re selling screenshots, not consoles.

Another listing for $550 states: "Do not purchase unless you’re a bot or simply want to donate $550. I will ship a laser-printed image of the Switch 2 Mario Kart World bundle, and that’s all you’ll receive. NO REFUNDS. NO. REFUNDS. NO REFUNDS. You will NOT BE REFUNDED; you’ll get the picture regardless."

"I’ll restate: NO REFUNDS. You’ll receive a laser-printed image of a Switch 2 Mario Kart World bundle. That’s it."

"One final note: NO REFUNDS. This will ship after your order, not after the console’s release, so expect delivery before the Switch 2 launch date."

Another $499.99 listing reads: "This is for a printed picture of my confirmed Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order. You’ll get a folded printed image in a standard envelope. This is NOT the console. No refunds, no returns. Down with the bots."

Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery

The Nintendo Switch 2 was slated for release on June 5, 2025, starting at $449.99, but the Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order date was postponed in the U.S. due to import tariffs under President Trump, which disrupted financial markets.

As a result, Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders began on April 24, still priced at $449.99 — and they unfolded as chaotically as expected. Visit IGN’s Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order guide for details.

This week, Nintendo addressed compatibility concerns with its new GameCube controller, confirming potential "issues" when using it with modern Nintendo Switch games.