Nintendo has officially announced the pre-order date and pricing for the eagerly awaited Nintendo Switch 2 console and its range of accessories. Despite the base model's price remaining steady at $449.99, and the Mario Kart World bundle holding firm at $499.99, a notable shift has occurred in the cost of accessories, sparking discussions among early adopters about their pre-order strategies.
The Mario Kart World game, which continues to be a popular choice, retains its standalone price of $79.99. Meanwhile, the upcoming Donkey Kong Bananza title is set at $69.99, providing gamers with more options for their Switch 2 experience.
However, the real talking point has been the increase in accessory prices. Here's a detailed breakdown of the new pricing structure:
- Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller - $84.99
- Joy-Con 2 Pair - $94.99
- Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip - $39.99
- Joy-Con 2 Strap - $13.99
- Joy-Con 2 Wheel Set - $24.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 Camera - $54.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 Dock Set - $119.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector - $39.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case - $84.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 AC Adapter - $34.99
Nintendo's announcement on their website clarified that these "price adjustments" for Switch 2 accessories are due to "changes in market conditions." Notably, high-value items like the Joy-Con 2 Pair, Switch 2 Pro Controller, and the camera have seen a consistent $5 increase. The Switch 2 Dock Set, however, has experienced a $10 hike, moving from $109.99 to $119.99.
The community's response has been mixed, with many expressing frustration over the cost of additional Joy-Con 2 controllers, now teetering on the edge of a triple-digit price at $94.99. This has left potential buyers questioning the value proposition of the new system's accessories.
On a more positive note, Nintendo has reassured fans that several Switch 1 accessories will remain compatible with the Switch 2. According to their support site, original Joy-Con controllers and the Nintendo Switch 1 Pro Controller can still be used, albeit wirelessly for the former. Even classic Super Nintendo and N64 controllers will continue to work with compatible games on the Switch 2.
Still compatible bbyyyy pic.twitter.com/lbPJiF1ARO
— Pokmar (@Pokmar03) April 2, 2025
Social media platforms are buzzing with discussions about leveraging existing Switch 1 accessories or exploring third-party options. While these may not offer the full functionality of the new Switch 2 controllers, such as the C-button or console wake-up features, they present a cost-effective alternative for budget-conscious consumers.
Nintendo also cautioned in their announcement that "Other adjustments to the price of any Nintendo product are also possible in the future depending on market conditions." This heads-up offers some reassurance to those wary of the current pricing, especially knowing that existing Pro controllers can still be utilized.
Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 will commence on April 24, 2025, giving fans plenty of time to weigh their options and plan their purchases accordingly.