Nintendo Warns U.S. Customers: Switch 2 Delivery Not Guaranteed Due to High Demand

Nintendo has issued a crucial update regarding the much-anticipated release of the Nintendo Switch 2, cautioning its U.S. fans about potential delays in release-day delivery. The company, already grappling with high demand in Japan, has now extended a similar warning to its American audience. Those who registered their interest in purchasing a Switch 2 from the My Nintendo Store have been informed that delivery by the June 5 release date is not guaranteed. As a result, invitation emails for purchase may arrive after the console's launch, though Nintendo promises to confirm shipping dates upon purchase.

Nintendo expressed gratitude to those who have shown enthusiasm for the Nintendo Switch 2, acknowledging the high demand and their commitment to fulfilling orders as soon as possible. However, they've suggested that fans might have a better chance of securing a console at launch by pre-ordering from third-party retailers. This advice comes in the wake of the Switch 2 selling out quickly after pre-orders opened. For those preferring to wait for an invitation from the My Nintendo Store, no further action is needed after registering interest.

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The challenges faced by fans attempting to pre-order the Switch 2 on April 24, coupled with Nintendo's recent warning, indicate that securing the next-gen console around its launch date will be difficult. Earlier, Nintendo had warned its Japanese customers that a significant number would miss out on direct pre-orders from the company due to overwhelming demand. President Shuntaro Furukawa highlighted that 2.2 million people in Japan alone had applied to pre-order from the My Nintendo Store, far exceeding expectations and available stock for the June 5 launch.

According to an FAQ on Nintendo's website, the first batch of invitation emails for U.S. customers will start going out on May 8, 2025, with additional batches to follow periodically until purchasing is opened to everyone. These invitations will be sent on a first-come, first-serve basis to eligible registrants who meet specific priority criteria. Invitees will have 72 hours to complete their purchase once the email is sent.

To be eligible for priority, customers must have purchased a Nintendo Switch Online membership, maintained it for at least 12 months, and opted into sharing gameplay data with at least 50 hours of total gameplay.

Last week, Nintendo confirmed that Switch 2 pre-orders in the U.S. would start on April 24, 2025, maintaining the original price of $449.99 and the launch date of June 5. The Switch 2 + Mario Kart World bundle will also stay at $499.99, with no changes to the pricing of Mario Kart World ($79.99) and Donkey Kong Bananza ($69.99) at launch. However, due to ongoing tariff issues, Nintendo has increased the prices of Switch 2 accessories.

Originally, pre-orders were set to begin on April 9, but Nintendo delayed them to assess the impact of tariffs and market conditions. For those eager to pre-order a Nintendo Switch 2, GameCube controller, or other accessories and games, staying updated via the Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order guide is recommended. Additionally, more information on increasing your chances of obtaining a new Nintendo Switch 2 console on launch day is available.