Gamers across North America let out a collective groan last week when the Nintendo Switch 2 preorder date shifted from April 9 to an uncertain "who knows when?" This delay was triggered by import tariffs introduced by President Trump, which sent financial markets into a tailspin, and the ripple effect has crossed the border. Nintendo Canada has also confirmed delays in pre-orders, dashing hopes of securing a console through a friend or family member in Winnipeg.
"Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 in Canada will not commence on April 9, 2025, to align with the yet-to-be-determined timing in the U.S.," Nintendo of Canada announced in a statement to the Canadian tech site MobileSyrup.
"Nintendo will provide updated information at a later date. The launch date of June 5, 2025 remains unchanged."
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This echoes a similar statement given to IGN by Nintendo of America on April 4, though the Canadian announcement omits any specific mention of new tariffs.
Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S. will not start on April 9, 2025, as we assess the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions. Nintendo will update timing at a later date. The launch date of June 5, 2025 remains unchanged.
With the original pre-order launch date of tomorrow now out of the picture, gamers are left in suspense, anxiously awaiting news on when they can finally start pre-ordering. This uncertainty is compounded by concerns over a potential price hike from the initially announced $449.99, leaving many in a state of limbo.
Meanwhile, Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders have gone live in the UK, with smaller retailers like EE, GAME, and Smyths quickly selling out. Scalpers have taken advantage, listing pre-orders on eBay for as much as £500 ($639), significantly higher than the retail price of £395.99 ($506).
For more information, explore everything announced at the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct, and don't miss our extensive interview with Nintendo of America's Bill Trinen about the Nintendo Switch 2.