Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders Face Store 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 enthusiasts get their hands on the new console, Nintendo is implementing strategic pre-order measures on the official My Nintendo Store.

On the My Nintendo Store, those with a Nintendo Account can register their interest in pre-ordering a Nintendo Switch 2 system along with "select accessories." Once registered, interested buyers will receive an invitation email when it's their turn to pre-order, valid for 72 hours. However, there's a catch: to be eligible, you must have demonstrated your dedication to the Switch ecosystem. Specifically, "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," according to the store's fine print.

Nintendo has clarified that these invitations are "non-transferable" and will be sent to the email addresses linked to the registering Nintendo Account. Additionally, there will be a one-per-account limit for the system and each accessory during the invitation period. Currently, you can express interest in either a base Nintendo Switch 2 system or one bundled with Mario Kart World.

Once ordered, systems will be shipped after purchase, with an approximate shipping date provided at the time of ordering. Nintendo emphasizes that "release-day delivery is not guaranteed due to processing and shipment times." These measures appear to be designed to ensure that those buying a Switch 2 through this process are genuine gamers eager to enjoy the new console, rather than resellers looking to flip it 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, as seen with the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, as well as the Pokémon Trading Card Game. Valve managed to mitigate this problem with the Steam Deck by implementing a queue system that linked purchases to Steam accounts, with checks on account creation dates. It's no surprise that Nintendo is adopting similar strategies with the My Nintendo Store process.

While other avenues for purchasing the Switch 2 will be available, these measures aim to help long-time Switch 1 owners navigate the potential chaos of securing a launch day pre-order.