Nintendo's first post-Switch 2 Nintendo Direct Treehouse livestream is currently facing a barrage of frustrated comments from viewers demanding that the company "DROP THE PRICE." A quick look at the YouTube chat during the stream reveals widespread dissatisfaction with the pricing strategy for Nintendo's next-generation console, particularly the $449.99 price tag for the Switch 2 and the highly debated $79.99 price for the new Mario Kart World.
While the Nintendo Switch 2 system itself will retail for $449.99, a bundle option is available that includes Mario Kart World for $499.99, offering a $30 saving on the game's standalone price.
The Treehouse live chat is experiencing the expected level of discontent. However, Mario Kart World isn't the only title on the Switch 2 priced at $79.99; other games like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom also carry this price point.
Nintendo is also receiving criticism for charging for the Switch 2 tutorial game, Welcome Tour, which many fans argue should be included for free. For comparison, Astro's Playroom is provided free with every PlayStation 5, doubling as a tech demo for the DualSense controller.
The Nintendo Switch 2 package includes the following:
Nintendo Switch 2 console
Joy-Con 2 controllers (L+R)
Joy-Con 2 Grip
Joy-Con 2 Straps
Nintendo Switch 2 Dock
Ultra High-Speed HDMI Cable
Nintendo Switch 2 AC Adapter
USB-C Charging Cable
The outcry over Nintendo’s pricing has now spilled into the Treehouse livestream, though the presenters have largely ignored the chat, perhaps understandably given the situation. It's likely that Nintendo will continue to face such criticism from the gaming community, putting pressure on the company to respond to these concerns.
For a deeper understanding of the situation, you can read IGN's article on what the experts have to say about Nintendo’s Switch 2 and Mario Kart World pricing.
If you missed the latest announcements, don't forget to check out all the news announced during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct.
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