The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to hit store shelves on June 5, and anticipation is sky-high. Priced at $449.99, the next-generation console will be available at retailers around the globe, including GameStop, Best Buy, and Nintendo’s own direct sales platform. While preorders opened in April and quickly sold out online, there’s still a chance to grab one on launch day if you’re quick.
GameStop Hosting Midnight Launch Events
GameStop has confirmed it will hold midnight launch events across select locations in the U.S. These events will start at 3 PM local time on June 4, with console pickups available beginning at midnight EST / 9 PM PST. A limited number of consoles will also be available in-store and online at launch. GameStop is offering 40% extra trade credit on any video games traded toward Switch 2 games or accessories through May 31. Attendees at certain stores can even grab a free Red Bull while supplies last. GameStop is also encouraging customers to transfer their saved data from their current Switch before picking up the new console.
GameStop X post (Photo: X.com)
Best Buy Joining the Launch Night Frenzy
Best Buy is also planning late-night store openings for the release. Most locations will carry limited quantities of systems, games, and accessories, though the retailer warns that long lines and early crowds are expected. Some lucky customers may also receive a Nintendo collectible during the launch event.
Watch for Restocks if You Missed Preorders
If you didn’t get a preorder, keep checking with retailers like Walmart, Target, and Nintendo Direct, as additional consoles may become available. Nintendo has already begun emailing direct sales invitations to select users.
Launch Titles Include New and Upgraded Favorites
The Switch 2 launch isn’t only about the new hardware. It’s also arriving with an impressive lineup of 23 games. Titles include Mario Kart World, Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Hogwarts Legacy, Sonic X Shadows Generations, Street Fighter 6, and Split
Fiction. Several popular Switch 1 titles are also being re-released with free upgrades, like Super Mario Odyssey, Breath of the Wild, and Kirby and the Forgotten Land. Some games will be sold as Game-Key Cards.
New Features and Hardware Changes
The console brings some familiar features back, including the Search for Controllers function and 30-second video recording. New features include GameChat and wireless GameCube controller support. It also requires a microSD Express card to play games, which offers faster speeds than standard microSDs.
More Games Coming in 2025
More games are expected to be released throughout the year, including Donkey Kong Bananza in July and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond later in 2025. If you’re hoping to score one at launch, get ready for the lines and maybe bring a chair.
I’m going to hold off on this one. Maybe when the next Zelda comes out, I might jump in and get one then.
Excited to see what games come to the Switch 2.
Can’t wait
Can’t wait
I would love to snag one.
No thanks. Gaming is getting too costly + the impact of tariffs means it’s wiser to save cash.
Can’t wait for next month! Time to play nintendo games in 4k natively!
Should be a big launch for this no doubt.
Will wait on purchasing this
Get it now before prices go up due to tariffs.
So close to release now. Hoping to get one.