I've covered consumer shopping in the e-commerce sphere since 2019.
Nintendo's newest release is finally here, but if the launch is anything like its predecessor, we may be in for a long stretch of backorders and waitlists. Stock will be limited upon release, but retailers like Walmart and GameStop will have consoles available online starting at midnight EST on June 5. Target has also confirmed a second wave of available online orders on June 6. Here's where to buy the Nintendo Switch 2 right now and all the other details you need to know.
As we mentioned above, major retailers like Target and GameStop are your best bet at getting your hands on the Switch 2 -- but don't be surprised if you still end up on a waitlist. The original Switch is arguably the most popular gaming consoles. Its ability to bridge casual and serious gamers has made it a household favorite since its release, and we're expecting a similar reaction to the latest release. That said, the Switch 2 starts at $449.99 -- a significant jump from the $299.99 launch price of the first model and the $349.99 upgraded OLED model. This price increase may give you a window to snag the Switch 2 ahead of those hoping to catch a price drop.
The Switch 2 starts at $449.99. It's the most expensive launch from Nintendo so far, but it's supposed to offer more power and significantly improved 4K visuals over the older generations.
Yes, the Nintendo Switch 2 is backwards compatible -- with a few caveats. Nintendo has released a list of apps and games with issues ranging from incompatible Joy-Cons to complete start-up errors. Some issues are expected to be addressed by launch, but it's worth considering if any of your favorites have made the list.
You may also want to hold onto your original Nintendo Joy-Cons. There are a handful of games that you can technically play on the Switch 2, but are currently incompatible with its new controllers. For select games, you'll have to connect your original Joy-Cons to the Switch 2 in order to play.
We asked Isaacs what she thinks of the Switch 2 after trying the new console out for herself. "The new Nintendo Switch 2 offers a slew of worthy upgrades. The display is brighter and smoother, with a larger display for gaming. Nintendo updated the controllers not only with a new design but with some under-the-hood enhancements to make joystick movements easier and faster. There's also the enhanced processor and graphics. All of this to say: If you're a die-hard Nintendo fan and want to future-proof your Nintendo games, the new Nintendo Switch 2 is absolutely worth picking up."