Overview of Nintendo Switch 2 Resale Trends
- Scalpers are reselling the Nintendo Switch 2 at prices significantly above retail value.
- The standard edition is appearing on platforms like eBay for over £600 (approximately $656.06), reflecting a markup of around $207 from the original retail price.
- This highly anticipated console is expected to launch globally on June 5.
The Nintendo Switch 2 has sparked considerable buzz in the gaming community, particularly with its recent announcement of a launch date and pricing. As anticipation builds, scalping has emerged as a significant issue, leading to inflated prices on resale websites, notably eBay. The console’s price has created a divide among gamers as pre-orders are set to begin on April 9 in various regions, though U.S. customers will experience a delay while Nintendo evaluates the impact of recent tariffs on their production and logistics.
Similar to the experiences during the launch of the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S in 2020, scalpers are once again capitalizing on the high demand for the Nintendo Switch 2. To combat this, Nintendo has implemented measures to prioritize pre-orders for long-term Nintendo Switch Online members who have demonstrated loyalty through their gaming activity.
Despite these efforts, reports indicate that scalpers have managed to acquire some of the initial wave of Nintendo Switch 2 consoles and bundles. According to Eurogamer, listings for the standard Nintendo Switch 2 are already surfacing on websites like eBay for prices exceeding £600 (about $656.06), which is roughly $207 higher than the standard retail price. Additionally, the exclusive Mario Kart World Nintendo Switch 2 bundle is being resold for amounts starting at £634.02 (approximately $693.26), translating to an increase of around $193.27 over its suggested retail price.
The Scalping Dilemma Surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2
As the launch approaches, the steep pricing of the Nintendo Switch 2 is already stirring discussions among gamers. Compounding the issue, the prices for some launch titles, such as the standalone Mario Kart World, which retails for $80 digitally and $90 physically, contribute to the overall expense. Purchasing the Mario Kart World Nintendo Switch 2 bundle may offer some savings, but it appears this bundle will only be available until Fall 2025.
With scalpers increasingly targeting this limited-edition console, obtaining a standard Nintendo Switch 2 might become increasingly difficult. Retailers have noted that some pre-orders have sold out almost instantly, despite the delays in the U.S. pre-order launch. Nevertheless, the official worldwide release is still scheduled for June 5, creating a pressing opportunity for gamers eager to secure their console.