In a gaming world used to big launches, few could’ve predicted the chaos sparked by the arrival of Nintendo’s Switch 2. Within hours of release, pre-orders vanished, retail sites crashed, and scalpers were already listing consoles at double the price. The hype wasn’t just real. It became a global supply nightmare almost overnight.
On Thursday, Nintendo officially rolled out the Switch 2 with a $499.99 price tag. But instead of a smooth release, the hybrid console’s debut triggered a full-blown shortage frenzy. Japan alone saw over 2.2 million people scramble for early access through a lottery system on the My Nintendo Store. Meanwhile, in the U.S., giants like Target reported pre-orders selling out within hours, leaving latecomers out of luck and online forums in chaos.
Global Sellouts, Online Chaos, and Surging Demand Mark Switch 2 Launch
This explosive demand is centered around the Switch 2’s revamped features. An expanded screen, upgraded visuals, and a strong launch lineup including the headline title ‘Mario Kart World.’ But analysts say the real driving force is Nintendo’s massive fanbase carried over from the original Switch, which sold more than 152 million units globally. “Nintendo is better prepared this time around,” said Ampere Analysis’ Piers Harding-Rolls, yet even with improved logistics, demand is already outpacing supply.
Nintendo Switch 2 is launching worldwide and many people have had concerns over the price tag for the World Tour demo/game. But maybe… it’s worth it? pic.twitter.com/7eCpVWd0mX
— Brian (@RagerBrian_) June 5, 2025
Nintendo has projected 15 million units will be sold within this fiscal year. The company is now scrambling to boost production, aiming to exceed its forecast. This early pressure is also testing Nintendo’s supply chain resilience amid lingering global trade tensions. The company’s stock has soared nearly 30% in 2025. Meanwhile, experts caution that keeping up with this kind of demand may prove difficult.
For now, patience is key. According to Serkan Toto of Kantan Games, “You are looking at weeks or months until you can walk into a store and buy a Switch 2.” The launch may have been a financial win. But the real challenge lies ahead: Can Nintendo feed the frenzy before the hype fizzles? A
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