Nintendo has officially announced the pre-order date and pricing for the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 console and its accessories. While the console's price remains unchanged, the cost of accessories has seen a noticeable increase, prompting a variety of reactions from potential early adopters.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is priced at $449.99 for the base model, with a bundle option including Mario Kart World priced at $499.99. The kart racing game, Mario Kart World, is available as a standalone purchase for $79.99, while Donkey Kong Bananza will cost $69.99.
However, the price of accessories has broadly increased across the board. Here's a detailed breakdown:
In its announcement, Nintendo explained that the Switch 2 accessories have undergone "price adjustments from those announced on April 2 due to changes in market conditions." Notable increases include a $5 bump for high-end items like the Joy-Con 2 Pair, Switch 2 Pro Controller, and the camera, while the Switch 2 Dock Set saw a $10 increase, moving from $109.99 to $119.99.
The price hike has sparked significant discussion among fans, particularly regarding the cost of an additional Joy-Con 2 Pair, which now sits just $5 shy of a triple-digit price tag. This has left many prospective buyers puzzled and reconsidering their plans.
Amidst the pricing concerns, there's a silver lining for current Switch owners: many Switch 1 accessories remain compatible with the Switch 2. According to Nintendo's support site, original Joy-Con controllers and the Nintendo Switch 1 Pro controller can be wirelessly paired with the new console, although the former cannot be directly attached. Additionally, Super Nintendo and N64 controllers will also work with compatible games on the Switch 2.
Still compatible bbyyyy pic.twitter.com/lbPJiF1ARO
— Pokmar (@Pokmar03) April 2, 2025
Social media platforms are buzzing with discussions about the compatibility of Switch 1 accessories and the potential use of third-party controllers. While these may lack some advanced features of the Switch 2 controllers, such as the C-button or the ability to wake the console, they represent a cost-saving alternative 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 acknowledgment offers some reassurance to those who find the current prices steep, knowing that existing Pro controllers can still be utilized with the Switch 2.
Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 will commence on April 24, 2025.