Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders Face Store Restrictions to Combat Scalpers

The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 is set to hit the market on June 5, 2025, and it's poised to be one of the most sought-after gadgets of the year. To ensure that dedicated fans get first dibs, Nintendo is rolling out a structured pre-order system through the My Nintendo Store. If you're a Nintendo Account holder, you can now register your interest in securing a Nintendo Switch 2 system along with select accessories.

Once you've registered, keep an eye on your inbox. Nintendo will send out invitation emails on a first-come, first-served basis. These invitations are your golden ticket to pre-order, but they come with a 72-hour validity period, so act fast when you get yours. There's a catch, though—you'll need to prove your loyalty. To be eligible, you must have been a Nintendo Switch Online member with at least 12 months of paid membership and logged a minimum of 50 hours of gameplay on your current Switch by April 2, 2025.

It's important to note that these invitations are non-transferable and will be sent to the email linked to your Nintendo Account. Additionally, there's a one-per-account limit for the system and each accessory during this invitation period. You can express interest in either the base Nintendo Switch 2 system or a bundle that includes Mario Kart World.

After placing your order, you'll receive an approximate shipping date, but Nintendo makes it clear that release-day delivery is not guaranteed due to processing and shipment times. These measures are designed to ensure that the Nintendo Switch 2 goes to fans who intend to play, rather than those looking to resell it at a profit.

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow

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The issue of scalping has plagued many high-demand product launches, including the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and the Pokémon Trading Card Game. To combat this, Nintendo is taking a leaf out of Valve's book, which successfully used a queue system for the Steam Deck. This approach ties purchases to established accounts and helps ensure that the products go to genuine fans.

While there will be other avenues to purchase the Nintendo Switch 2, this pre-order system on the My Nintendo Store is a promising way for long-time Switch owners to secure their console without facing the typical launch day frenzy.