Global Outcry Over High Switch 2 Game Prices

2025 marks a significant milestone for Nintendo with the release of the Nintendo Switch 2. This new console promises to be everything fans could hope for in a successor to the beloved original Switch, boasting enhanced hardware that aims to elevate the gaming experience. However, the global economic uncertainty has cast a shadow over its launch, making the Switch 2's rollout a more complex affair.

The situation is further complicated by the ongoing trade tensions between the United States and China. Priced at $450 USD, with games like Mario Kart World at $80 USD, the Switch 2 has become a focal point in discussions about the rising costs of gaming hardware and software, both in the US and internationally.

To gauge global reactions to the Switch 2, I consulted with editors from IGN's international branches across Europe, South America, and Asia. The consensus? Mixed feelings.

How the Rest of the World Feels About the Switch 2

The Switch 2's hardware upgrades, such as a 120Hz refresh rate, HDR, and 4K output, have been well-received. Yet, the absence of an OLED screen has been a significant point of contention among fans.

"IGN Italia's readers are largely unhappy with the Nintendo Switch 2," notes Alessandro Digioia, editor-in-chief of IGN Italy. "The predominant concerns revolve around its price, the lack of an OLED screen, no trophy/achievement system, and a relatively modest launch lineup. While some third-party announcements were welcomed, many expected more from Nintendo's first-party titles."

Pedro Pestana from IGN Portugal echoes these sentiments, adding, "The Switch 2 feels like a beefed-up version of the original, lacking the novelty that made the first one so special. Ultimately, it will come down to the games, and Mario Kart World certainly looks promising."

In contrast, regions like Benelux and Turkey seem more enthusiastic about the hardware improvements. "Despite the price, the console has been well-received in our region," says Nick Nijiland from IGN Benelux. "It sold out within hours, and our Discord server saw a massive influx of new members eager for pre-order updates."

Ersin Kilic from IGN Turkey adds, "The improved screen quality, despite being LCD, has been a positive note for our readers. However, the lack of Hall Effect in the Joy-Con 2 has drawn criticism due to concerns over Joy-Con drift."

In China, the reaction is more nuanced. Kamui Ye from IGN China explains, "The reveal event was met with disappointment over the launch title lineup and regional pricing. The absence of new titles like Mario, Zelda, or Animal Crossing was a notable miss. However, core fans remain optimistic about Nintendo's long-term plans, valuing backward compatibility and hardware refinements like magnetic Joy-Cons."

Hardware Price and Tariff Fears

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow

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The Switch 2 is set to launch at $450 USD in the US, with pre-orders delayed due to ongoing tariff issues with China. These tariffs have forced Nintendo to rethink its launch strategy, especially for the June 5 release date.

In regions not affected by US tariffs, like Europe, pre-orders are already underway. "In Germany, tariffs aren't a concern, but the price of the Switch 2 is," says Antonia Dressler from IGN Germany. "Comparisons to the PS5, which is seen as a better value, are common. Despite the complaints, pre-orders are still coming in."

The Switch 2's pricing positions it as a competitor to the PS5 and Xbox Series X globally, complicating consumers' choices. "Nintendo's official website is taking pre-orders at R12,499, which puts it in the same price bracket as the PS5 and Xbox Series X," notes Zaid Kriel from IGN Africa. "This is no longer a cheaper alternative, and with increased game prices, it's a concern."

Erwan Lafleuriel, editor-in-chief of IGN France, highlights that the pricing debate has overshadowed other aspects of the Switch 2 reveal. "The lack of a major surprise in the reveal, coupled with the already-leaked information, has left many feeling underwhelmed. The focus has shifted heavily to the pricing, which feels like it's filling a void left by missing excitement."

In Brazil, the tariff war exacerbates the issue. "The weak Brazilian Real and potential price hikes in the US could make the Switch 2 unaffordable for many in Latin America," explains Matheus de Lucca from IGN Brazil.

Japan faces a unique situation with a region-locked version of the console priced lower to protect the domestic market. "Nintendo aimed to keep the price under 50,000 yen due to the weak yen," says Daniel Robson, executive producer at IGN Japan. "The region lock ensures the console remains competitively priced compared to the PS5, which is crucial in a market dominated by Nintendo."

Software Price Remains the Biggest Pain Point

Despite hardware concerns, the price of software has emerged as the primary issue for many fans. Nintendo's decision to price Mario Kart World at $80 USD has sparked significant backlash. While Nintendo has indicated that prices will vary by game, the initial high price has raised fears of a trend towards more expensive games.

"Game pricing is the biggest issue for our readers and the broader Italian gaming community," says Alessandro Digioia from IGN Italy. "Nintendo's new pricing structure, especially with some first-party games at €90, feels unjustifiable. The €9.99 price for the Switch 2 Welcome Tour and paid upgrades for existing games have further fueled discontent."

Antonia Dressler from IGN Germany adds, "The €90 price tag for Mario Kart World is unprecedented here. Even the tutorial game costing anything feels greedy to many."

In regions without an official Switch 2 release, such as mainland China, gamers may turn to the gray market. "Game prices in Hong Kong and Japan are lower than in Western markets, which has been well-received," notes Kamui Ye from IGN China. "Despite price increases, the Switch 2 is seen as more cost-effective than alternatives like the Steam Deck, especially with backward compatibility."

Despite the challenges, the Switch 2 is poised for success as a recognizable upgrade to one of the most popular consoles ever. However, the looming threat of $80 games during a time of economic hardship has dampened enthusiasm for many potential buyers. The impact of tariffs and international politics on the North American launch and global stock availability remains uncertain.

Nevertheless, the global excitement for the Switch 2 is palpable, though tempered by several caveats. Nintendo has undoubtedly stirred interest worldwide, but the road ahead will reveal just how successful the Switch 2 will ultimately be.