A point of contention for some regarding Nintendo’s upcoming Switch 2 is the planned $80 price tag on select titles. This exceeds the now-common $70 price for top-tier games.
Adding to the financial considerations, Nintendo has also announced that the original Nintendo Switch console will see a price increase in the United States.
The revised pricing goes into effect this week, on August 3rd. Potential buyers of the original Switch might consider making their purchase before then.
Nintendo Switch Console Price Increase Affecting All Models
The announcement, issued by Nintendo earlier today, specifies that the price adjustments affect the Nintendo Switch – OLED Model, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch Lite, and select Nintendo Switch accessories.
The price increase extends beyond the consoles themselves; selected Nintendo Switch 2 accessories, certain amiibo figures, and even the Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo will also be affected.
The company cites “market conditions” as the underlying reason for the changes. This vague explanation could encompass various factors, including fluctuations in exchange rates, tariffs, or alterations in manufacturing costs. Regardless of the specific cause, the decision is final.
Notably, the price of the Switch 2 console itself, physical and digital games for both Switch systems, and Nintendo Switch Online subscriptions will remain the same “at this time.” However, Nintendo’s statement includes a caveat that “price adjustments may be necessary in the future,” suggesting that further price hikes for these items could be on the horizon.
While Nintendo has taken steps to mitigate scalping issues surrounding the Switch 2, the combined effect of rising game prices for the new console and now a price increase for the original Switch leaves consumers feeling disappointed.
Despite the controversy surrounding rising costs, Nintendo’s products continue to be popular, with the Switch 2 continuing to achieve impressive sales figures.
In light of the current price increases affecting the original Nintendo Switch, it seems probable that the Switch 2 will also experience a price adjustment before the end of the year.
- Brand
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Nintendo
- Original Release Date
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March 3, 2017
- Original MSRP (USD)
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Switch: $299; Lite: $199.99; OLED: $349.99
- Hardware Versions
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Switch, Nintendo Switch Lite, Nintendo Switch OLED Model
- Weight
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Switch: 0.88 LBS; Lite: 0.61 LBS; OLED: 0.93 LBS