Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders Face New Restrictions to Combat Scalpers

The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025, and it's expected to be a hot commodity. To ensure that genuine Switch players secure their pre-orders, Nintendo has introduced specific measures on the official My Nintendo Store. By registering your interest in pre-ordering the Nintendo Switch 2 system and "select accessories," you can receive an invitation email when your turn comes up. This invitation is valid for 72 hours, but there's a catch: you need to have spent some time on your existing Switch and be a Switch Online member.

"Invitation emails will be prioritized on a first-come, first-served basis to registrants who have purchased a Nintendo Switch Online membership with a minimum of 12 months of paid membership and a minimum of 50 total gameplay hours, as of April 2, 2025," the site's fine print explains. These invitations are "non-transferable" and will be sent to the email address linked to your Nintendo Account. Additionally, there's a one-per-account limit for both the system and each accessory during the invitation period. You can express interest in either a base Nintendo Switch 2 system or one bundled with Mario Kart World.

Once you've placed your order, it will be shipped post-purchase, with an approximate shipping date provided at the time of ordering. Nintendo clarifies that "release-day delivery is not guaranteed due to processing and shipment times." These measures appear designed to ensure that those purchasing a Switch 2 through this process are genuine players, not resellers looking to flip the console online.

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow

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Scalping has been a persistent issue with the launch of highly sought-after products. Both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S faced scalping problems, and even the Pokémon Trading Card Game has been affected by ongoing shortages and scalping. Valve successfully implemented a queue system for the Steam Deck, linking purchases to Steam accounts and checking account creation dates. It's no surprise that Nintendo is adopting a similar approach with the My Nintendo Store process.

While there will be other avenues to acquire a Switch 2, this system aims to help dedicated Switch 1 owners navigate the potential chaos of securing a launch day pre-order. With these measures in place, Nintendo is striving to prioritize genuine fans and players.