Global Outcry Over High Switch 2 Game Prices

Nintendo's release of the Switch 2 comes at a pivotal moment, offering a more powerful successor to the beloved original Switch. However, the launch is overshadowed by global economic uncertainties, making the console a more complex proposition for potential buyers. The $450 USD price tag for the console and the $80 USD for Mario Kart World have sparked significant discussion, especially amid rising costs in the gaming industry worldwide.

To understand global reactions to the Switch 2, I consulted with editors from IGN's international branches. The feedback has been varied, reflecting a mix of excitement and concern.

How the Rest of the World Feels About the Switch 2

Feedback from IGN's global network, spanning Europe, South America, and Asia, reveals a mixed reception. While the hardware enhancements such as a 120hz refresh rate, HDR, and 4K output have been well-received, the absence of an OLED screen has been a notable point of criticism.

“IGN Italia’s readers are largely dissatisfied with the Nintendo Switch 2,” notes Alessandro Digioia, editor-in-chief of IGN Italy. “The primary concerns include the price, the lack of an OLED screen, the absence of a trophy/achievement system, and a modest launch lineup. While third-party game announcements were appreciated, many expected more from Nintendo's first-party titles.”

Pedro Pestana from IGN Portugal echoes these sentiments, adding, “The Switch 2 feels like an enhanced version of the original without the novelty factor. Ultimately, it will come down to the games, and Mario Kart World looks impressive.”

Other regions, however, have shown more enthusiasm for the hardware upgrades. Nick Nijiland of IGN Benelux reports, “Despite the high price, the console has been well-received here. It sold out within hours, and our Discord server saw a surge in new members when we announced pre-order availability.”

Ersin Kilic from IGN Turkey shares that local readers appreciate the improvements over the original Switch, though the lack of Hall Effect in Joy-Con 2, which could have prevented Joy-Con drift, remains a point of contention.

Kamui Ye of IGN China provides a balanced view, noting, “While the launch title lineup disappointed many due to the absence of new titles from major franchises like Mario, Zelda, or Animal Crossing, core fans remain optimistic about Nintendo's long-term plans. They value backward compatibility and hardware refinements like magnetic Joy-Cons, trusting in Nintendo's history of supporting its platforms with compelling games over time.”

Hardware Price and Tariff Fears

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow

22 Images

The Switch 2 is set to launch at $450 USD in the United States, with pre-orders delayed due to ongoing tariffs. This situation has caused Nintendo to reconsider its launch strategy for the June 5 release date.

In regions less affected by tariffs, such as Europe, pre-orders are already underway. Antonia Dressler from IGN Germany notes, “The tariff situation isn't a concern here, but the pricing of the Switch 2 is. Many compare it unfavorably to the PS5, yet pre-orders are still coming in.”

The Switch 2's pricing places it in direct competition with other next-gen consoles, complicating consumer choices. Zaid Kriel of IGN Africa comments, “The price is now comparable to the PS5 and Xbox Series X, no longer offering a budget-friendly alternative. This is particularly challenging with Nintendo's increased game prices.”

Erwan Lafleuriel, editor-in-chief of IGN France, states, “Pricing issues have overshadowed the Switch 2's reveal. The high prices, coupled with leaks that left little new to be excited about, and the absence of a standout feature or game, have dampened enthusiasm.”

In Brazil, the impact of US tariffs exacerbates the situation. Matheus de Lucca from IGN Brazil explains, “The weak Real against the dollar, combined with potential price increases in the US, could make the Switch 2 unaffordable for many in Latin America.”

Japan presents a unique scenario with a region-locked version of the console at a lower price point. Daniel Robson, executive producer at IGN Japan, says, “Nintendo has set the price below 50,000 yen, mindful of the weak yen. The region lock ensures the console remains competitive domestically while preventing mass imports.”

Software Price Remains the Biggest Pain Point

The most significant concern surrounding the Switch 2 has been the cost of software. The $80 USD price for Mario Kart World has drawn particular ire, with fears that this could set a precedent for future game pricing.

Alessandro Digioia from IGN Italy remarks, “Game pricing is the top issue, with many feeling Nintendo's new pricing is unjustifiable, especially as first-party games are now reaching €90. Even the €9.99 price for the Switch 2 Welcome Tour has sparked backlash.”

Antonia Dressler from IGN Germany adds, “The €90 price for Mario Kart World is unprecedented here, causing significant frustration among gamers. The paid tutorial game adds to the perception of greed.”

In mainland China, where an official release is not planned, gamers may turn to the gray market. Kamui Ye from IGN China notes, “Game prices in Hong Kong and Japan are lower, and most find the official price acceptable. Despite the price increase, the Switch 2 remains a cost-effective option compared to handheld PCs like the Steam Deck.”

The Switch 2 promises to be a successful upgrade to one of the most popular consoles, yet the high cost of games during economic uncertainty has dampened the enthusiasm of potential buyers. With many unknowns, especially in North America due to tariffs, and potential stock issues globally, the launch remains a complex endeavor. However, the global excitement generated by Nintendo's latest offering is undeniable, albeit with notable caveats.