Nintendo has introduced limitations on pre-orders for the Switch 2

Update, April 4, 2025: Nintendo has delayed pre-orders in the United States as they review tariff impacts and changing market conditions, according to a report by GameSpot. The company has indicated an update on timing will follow, while maintaining that the June 5 release date remains unchanged.

Original Story, April 3, 2025: To focus on their most loyal customers, Nintendo has restricted pre-orders for the upcoming Switch 2 through My Nintendo Store. Invitations will be sent via email based on specific criteria. Pre-orders open on April 8 for the UK and Europe, and April 9 for the US and Canada. The Switch 2 is set to be available on June 5, 2025.

According to Nintendo UK, consumers must have maintained a continuous Nintendo Switch Online membership for at least two years by the end of March 2025, and memberships must be active when placing a pre-order. Nintendo US has stated that prioritized invites will be for those with a minimum of 12 months of paid membership.

Family memberships will count towards the purchaser only, excluding other members from eligibility. Selection will also prioritize players with extensive gameplay hours on Nintendo Switch and those who consent to share usage data with Nintendo. As of April 2, 2025, Nintendo US has set a threshold of at least 50 hours. Those wishing to be invited must also subscribe to promotional communications from Nintendo.

"In the future, criteria for selection may be reduced, allowing more individuals to secure a Switch 2 pre-order," the company noted. "We will continue to focus on our most engaged Nintendo Switch audience, while supplies last."

Earlier in the year, Nintendo's president, Shuntaro Furukawa, highlighted the company's commitment to fulfilling stock demands. "Currently, we're taking risks in production to satisfy high demand. Given the challenges of increasing production rapidly, as seen with the original Switch, we are prepared to react swiftly based on our past experiences," Furukawa stated. He also emphasized combating scalpers by ensuring ample supply of the Switch 2 for retailers.