Nintendo Switch 2 Set for Release: Price Concerns Emerge for Zelda Franchise
Nintendo has recently revealed that its highly anticipated console, the Switch 2, is scheduled for a global launch on June 5, 2025. This announcement has generated significant buzz, particularly with the unveiling of game prices for the new system. Gamers, however, have expressed disappointment regarding the steep cost of titles, notably the price of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, which will be available for $90 when bundled with the expansion pack.
Industry Pricing Implications
The $90 price tag for an eight-year-old game raises concerns about a potentially alarming trend in pricing across the gaming industry. Many players fear that this hefty price might influence other console makers and developers to follow suit, leading to inflated costs for existing titles. This sentiment was echoed widely on social media, where community reactions poured in. User @SquashyButton29 summed up the frustration succinctly:
“There is no way they’re this greedy, like this is actually comical. They can’t even throw in the DLC for the Switch 2 ‘enhanced’ version of a nearly 10-year-old game.”
Community Reactions
Another user, @NamelessVisage, vented his outrage, stating:
“An 8 year old game from sub PS4 hardware being 90 dollars is f**king insane. Honestly f**k Nintendo. Such a greedy company. Don’t buy this shit people. Don’t let em get away with it.”
In contrast, @JustCliff_ offered a more pragmatic perspective, highlighting alternatives in the used market and suggesting that sales can provide better pricing options:
“Luckily the used market exists, along with sales. I’ve seen BotW and TotK go on sale a few times per year. Most people who are getting Switch 2, have BotW and/or the dlc. If you’re buying new – $60 Base Game $10 Upgrade $20 DLC. Don’t always take the 1st price, shop around.”
Other gamers, like @stuartjingles, shared their concerns regarding Nintendo’s decisions, recalling the disappointment surrounding the Wii U and worrying about a repeat with the Switch 2:
“@NintendoAmerica @Nintendo Remember how you took a good thing with the Wii and absolutely ruined it with the Wii U? We’re watching it happen again.”
The Appeal of Emulation
The discontent with pricing has led many gamers to consider emulation as a viable alternative, especially for Nintendo titles. User @oitzmojo highlighted the growing appeal of emulation:
“Emulation looks better and better each day. Was considering picking up a switch 2 just for BotW and TotK natively on a console but 90$ for an 8yr old game makes me just want to emulate it on my steam deck/pc.”
Release Date and Significance of Breath of the Wild
The Legend of Zelda franchise is among the most cherished in video gaming history, with titles like Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom being pivotal in driving Nintendo Switch sales, which have reached an impressive 150 million units worldwide. As a result, Nintendo has strategically chosen to launch these successful titles on the same day as the Switch 2, ensuring a strong appeal to both new and returning players.
As of June 5, 2025, fans can look forward to experiencing these iconic adventures on the next-generation console.