"Switch 2 Global Launch: High Prices Spark Universal Outcry"

What a year for Nintendo to finally release the Switch 2. While the hardware itself looks to be the ideal successor to the beloved original Switch—boasting enhanced power and features that fans have been clamoring for—the economic uncertainty sweeping the globe has made the launch of the Switch 2 a far more complex affair.

Add to that the ongoing trade war between the United States and China, and the $450 USD console price point, along with the $80 USD price tag for Mario Kart World, has turned the Switch 2 into a contentious topic amidst rising costs of gaming hardware and software, both in the US and internationally.

To understand the global reception of the Switch 2, I've consulted with editors from IGN's international branches, spanning Europe, South America, and Asia, to gather insights on the upcoming launch.

How the Rest of the World Feels About the Switch 2

Feedback from IGN sites abroad paints a mixed picture of the Switch 2. While the hardware enhancements such as a 120hz refresh rate, HDR, and 4K output are well-received, the absence of an OLED screen has been criticized as a notable omission.

"The sentiment from IGN Italia's audience has been predominantly negative towards the Nintendo Switch 2," reports Alessandro Digioia, editor-in-chief of IGN Italy. "The key issues highlighted in hundreds of comments on our articles and social media include the high price, the lack of an OLED screen, no trophy/achievement system, and a less than stellar launch lineup. While some third-party game announcements were positive, many expected more from Nintendo's own titles."

Pedro Pestana from IGN Portugal echoes similar feedback: "I'm not overly impressed with the Switch 2 as it's essentially a more powerful version of the original without the same novelty. However, the success will ultimately hinge on the games, and Mario Kart World does look impressive."

In contrast, other regions are more enthusiastic about the hardware improvements. Nick Nijiland from IGN Benelux notes, "Despite the price, the console has been well-received in our region. It sold out within hours of pre-orders going live, and our Discord server saw a massive influx of new members when we announced it."

Ersin Kilic of IGN Turkey highlights positive feedback from their readers, "Nintendo's response to the criticisms of the original Switch has been welcomed. The improved screen, despite being LCD, is a significant upgrade. However, the absence of Hall Effect in Joy-Con 2, which could prevent Joy-Con drift, remains a point of contention."

Kamui Ye from IGN China provides a balanced view, "The launch event was met with disappointment over the lack of strong first-party titles and confusing regional pricing. Yet, there's optimism among core fans who trust Nintendo's track record of iterative software support and the promise of backward compatibility."

Hardware Price and Tariff Fears

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow

22 Images

The Switch 2 is set to launch at a $450 USD price point in the United States, with pre-orders pending due to tariff disputes initiated by President Trump. This has delayed the rollout in the US and Canada, unlike other regions where pre-orders are already underway.

Antonia Dressler from IGN Germany comments, "Tariffs aren't a concern in Germany, but the price of the Switch 2 has drawn many complaints. It's often compared unfavorably to the PS5, which is seen as a better value despite the similar cost."

The pricing positions the Switch 2 in direct competition with the PS5 and Xbox Series X worldwide, complicating purchase decisions. Zaid Kriel from IGN Africa explains, "At R12,499, the Switch 2 is now in the same price range as the PS5 and Xbox Series X, no longer the more affordable option, especially with Nintendo's recent game price increases."

The cost of the Switch 2 and its accessories has overshadowed other aspects of its reveal. Erwan Lafleuriel, editor-in-chief of IGN France, notes, "The pricing debate has dominated discussions, overshadowing even the lack of significant new features or games. The leaks had already revealed much of what was shown, and there was no 'one more thing' to excite fans."

In regions like Brazil, the impact of the US tariffs is more severe. Matheus de Lucca from IGN Brazil states, "The weak Real against the dollar, combined with potential price hikes due to tariffs, makes the Switch 2 prohibitively expensive for most Brazilian gamers."

In Japan, Nintendo has introduced a region-locked version at a lower price point. Daniel Robson, executive producer at IGN Japan, says, "Nintendo couldn't exceed 50,000 yen due to the weak yen, but to prevent mass importation, they've locked it to Japanese games and accounts. Despite the high price, it's more affordable than the PS5, and Nintendo's dominance in Japan should ensure its success."

Software Price Remains the Biggest Pain Point

Beyond hardware costs and tariffs, the pricing of software has emerged as the most significant issue following the Switch 2 announcement. While Nintendo has traditionally maintained high prices, the $80 USD for Mario Kart World has sparked widespread concern about future price trends.

Alessandro Digioia from IGN Italy remarks, "The new pricing model has been met with resistance, especially after recent price increases from other consoles. Some first-party games are now priced at €90, causing uproar. Even the €9.99 for the Switch 2 Welcome Tour has been criticized as an additional cash grab."

Antonia Dressler from IGN Germany adds, "The €90 for Mario Kart World is unprecedented in Germany, even for major titles. Charging for a tutorial game like the Switch 2 Welcome Tour has only fueled perceptions of greed."

The $10 charge for the Switch 2 Welcome Tour has also drawn ire. On IGN.com, comments reflect a general dissatisfaction with high game prices amidst rising living costs. However, in mainland China, where there's no official release planned, gamers might find more affordable options through the gray market.

Kamui Ye from IGN China shares, "Game prices in Hong Kong and Japan are lower than in Western markets, and our readers find the official prices acceptable. Despite the price increase, the Switch 2 is seen as a better value than handheld PCs like the Steam Deck, especially with backward compatibility."

The Switch 2's success seems likely, given its status as an upgrade to one of the most beloved consoles. Yet, the looming threat of $80 games during economic uncertainty has cast a shadow over its launch. Tariffs in the US, potential stock shortages, and global political factors add further complexity to its rollout.

Despite these challenges, discussions with IGN's global team reveal a palpable excitement around the world for the Switch 2, albeit tempered with significant concerns.