Global Outcry Over High Switch 2 Game Prices

What a year for Nintendo to finally unveil the Switch 2. The new console embodies everything fans could wish for in a successor to the beloved original—a more robust and powerful version that retains the essence of what millions adore about the Switch. However, the backdrop of global economic uncertainty has cast a shadow over this eagerly anticipated release.

The situation is further complicated by the ongoing trade war between the United States and China. With the Switch 2 priced at $450 USD and Mario Kart World at $80 USD, the console has become a focal point in discussions about the rising costs of gaming hardware and software, both domestically and internationally.

To gauge global reactions to the Switch 2, I reached out to editors from IGN brands worldwide. Their insights paint a picture of a mixed reception to Nintendo's latest offering.

How the Rest of the World Feels About the Switch 2

Feedback from IGN's international sites, spanning Europe, South America, and Asia, reveals a spectrum of opinions. While the hardware enhancements such as a 120Hz refresh rate, HDR, and 4K output have garnered praise, the absence of an OLED screen has been a significant point of contention.

Alessandro Digioia, IGN Italy's editor-in-chief, notes, "IGN Italia's readers are predominantly dissatisfied with the Nintendo Switch 2. The primary grievances center around the price, the lack of an OLED screen, no trophy/achievement system, and a modest launch lineup. Although third-party announcements were appreciated, many expected more robust first-party titles from Nintendo."

Echoing these sentiments, Pedro Pestana from IGN Portugal adds, "Personally, I'm not overly impressed with the Switch 2; it's essentially an enhanced version of the original without the same novelty. Ultimately, it will boil down to the games, and Mario Kart World certainly looks impressive."

In contrast, other regions have shown a more favorable response to the hardware upgrades. Nick Nijiland of IGN Benelux reports, "Despite concerns about the price, the console has been warmly received in our region. It sold out within hours of pre-orders going live, and our Discord server saw a surge in new members eager for updates."

Ersin Kilic from IGN Turkey shares positive feedback, stating, "Readers appreciate that Nintendo addressed criticisms from the original Switch. The LCD screen, though not OLED, is considered a significant improvement. However, the lack of Hall Effect in Joy-Con 2 to combat drift has been a notable point of criticism."

Kamui Ye from IGN China offers a balanced view, "The reveal event sparked disappointment due to the lackluster launch lineup and regional pricing issues. The absence of new titles from major franchises like Mario, Legend of Zelda, or Animal Crossing was particularly disappointing. Yet, core fans remain optimistic about Nintendo's long-term plans, valuing backward compatibility, hardware refinements like magnetic Joy-Cons, and the promise of iterative software support."

Hardware Price and Tariff Fears

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow

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The Switch 2 is slated to launch at $450 USD in the United States, but pre-orders have been delayed due to ongoing tariff disputes initiated by President Trump. This has led Nintendo to reconsider its rollout strategy ahead of the June 5 release date.

In regions unaffected by these tariffs, such as Europe, pre-orders are already underway. Antonia Dressler from IGN Germany remarks, "Tariffs aren't a concern here, but the pricing of the Switch 2 has drawn significant complaints, especially when compared to the PS5, which is perceived as a better value."

With a price tag of R12,499 on Nintendo's official website, IGN Africa's Zaid Kriel notes, "The Switch 2 now competes directly with the PS5 and Xbox Series X, losing its edge as a more affordable option, especially with Nintendo's increased game prices."

The cost of the Switch 2, coupled with accessories, has overshadowed other aspects of its reveal, according to IGN France's editor-in-chief, Erwan Lafleuriel, "The pricing debate has overshadowed the reveal, which lacked the wow factor due to leaks and the absence of a standout feature or game."

In Brazil, the impact of U.S. tariffs is particularly felt, as Matheus de Lucca from IGN Brazil explains, "The weak Real exacerbates the situation, making the Switch 2 potentially unaffordable for many Brazilian gamers."

Japan presents a unique scenario with a region-locked version of the console priced at 50,000 yen. Daniel Robson from IGN Japan says, "Nintendo had to keep the price competitive in Japan due to the weak yen, but the region lock prevents import abuse. Despite the high price, the Switch 2 remains more affordable than the PS5, and Nintendo's dominance in Japan ensures continued demand."

Software Price Remains the Biggest Pain Point

While hardware costs and tariffs are significant concerns, the pricing of software has emerged as the most contentious issue surrounding the Switch 2's announcement. The decision to price Mario Kart World at $80 USD, with other launch titles ranging from $10 to $70, has raised fears of a broader trend toward more expensive games.

IGN Italy's Alessandro Digioia states, "Game pricing is the most discussed issue among our readers and the wider Italian gaming community. The new pricing model, particularly with first-party games at €90, is seen as unjustifiable, especially following recent price hikes from other consoles. The €9.99 price for Switch 2 Welcome Tour and paid upgrades for existing Switch games have further fueled discontent."

Antonia Dressler from IGN Germany adds, "The €90 price for Mario Kart World is unprecedented here. Even the €10 charge for a tutorial game has sparked outrage, making Nintendo appear excessively greedy."

In regions without an official release, such as mainland China, the situation differs. Kamui Ye from IGN China notes, "Game prices in Hong Kong and Japan are relatively lower. Despite the price increase for the console, it's seen as more cost-effective than alternatives like the Steam Deck, thanks to backward compatibility."

The Switch 2 is poised for success, building on the legacy of its predecessor. Yet, the specter of $80 games during economic hardship and uncertainties around tariffs and stock availability, particularly in the U.S., loom large. Despite these challenges, the global excitement for the Switch 2 remains palpable, though tempered by notable concerns.