Global Outcry Over High Switch 2 Game Prices

2025 has marked a significant milestone for Nintendo with the much-anticipated release of the Switch 2. As a successor to the beloved original Switch, the new console brings enhanced hardware that fans have been dreaming of, including a more powerful processor and improved graphics capabilities. However, the global economic climate and ongoing trade tensions between the United States and China have added layers of complexity to its launch, particularly with its $450 USD price tag and the $80 USD cost of Mario Kart World.

To gauge the global reaction to the Switch 2, I connected with editors from IGN's international branches, spanning Europe, South America, and Asia, to understand the diverse perspectives on this new console.

Global Reactions to the Switch 2

The feedback on the Switch 2 varies widely across different regions. While the hardware upgrades such as a 120hz refresh rate, HDR support, and 4K output have been celebrated, some notable absences like the OLED screen have sparked disappointment. Alessandro Digioia, editor-in-chief at IGN Italy, notes that Italian readers are largely unhappy with the console's price, the lack of an OLED screen, the absence of a trophy/achievement system, and the modest launch lineup. Despite some enthusiasm for third-party game announcements, the lack of robust first-party titles from Nintendo has been a point of contention.

Echoing similar sentiments, Pedro Pestana from IGN Portugal feels the Switch 2, while an improvement, lacks the novelty of its predecessor. "It's all about the games now," Pestana remarked, highlighting the impressive visuals of Mario Kart World as a potential draw.

In contrast, regions like Benelux and Turkey have shown more positive responses. Nick Nijiland from IGN Benelux reports a favorable reception, despite the price concerns, with the console selling out rapidly. Ersin Kilic of IGN Turkey notes that the improvements to the screen and overall design were well-received, though the absence of Hall Effect technology in the new Joy-Con 2 has drawn criticism due to concerns over Joy-Con drift.

IGN China's Kamui Ye presents a mixed bag of reactions. While the launch lineup disappointed many, particularly with the absence of new titles from iconic franchises like Mario, Zelda, and Animal Crossing, there's optimism among dedicated fans who trust Nintendo's long-term vision and software support. Ye points out that for loyalists, the backward compatibility and hardware refinements, including magnetic Joy-Cons, are prioritized over immediate concerns about power and battery life.

Hardware Price and Tariff Concerns

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow

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The Switch 2 is set to launch at $450 USD in the United States, but pre-orders have been delayed due to ongoing tariff disputes with China. This situation has forced Nintendo to rethink its launch strategy for the console, aiming for a June 5 release date. Meanwhile, in Europe, where tariffs are less of an issue, pre-orders are already underway.

Antonia Dressler from IGN Germany observes that while tariffs aren't a concern in Germany, the pricing of the Switch 2 is drawing significant criticism. Comparisons to the PS5, which many consider a better value, are common. Despite this, pre-orders continue to flow in.

The Switch 2's pricing positions it directly against the PS5 and Xbox Series X globally, making the decision tougher for potential buyers. Zaid Kriel from IGN Africa notes that the Switch 2's price now aligns with its competitors, eliminating its previous advantage as a more affordable option, especially with the increased cost of games.

In Brazil, the tariff war exacerbates the situation, as explained by Matheus de Lucca from IGN Brazil. The weak Brazilian Real against the dollar means any price increase in the U.S. significantly impacts the Latin American market, potentially limiting the Switch 2's accessibility.

In Japan, Nintendo is taking a different approach by launching a region-locked version of the console at a lower price to protect the domestic market. Daniel Robson, executive producer at IGN Japan, explains that while the price remains high, it's more competitive than the PS5 in Japan, and the country's strong affinity for Nintendo products is likely to sustain demand.

Software Pricing: The Biggest Concern

Despite hardware and tariff issues, the most significant concern globally has been the pricing of software. The $80 USD price for Mario Kart World has sparked widespread debate, especially as Nintendo joins other companies in increasing game prices. Alessandro Digioia from IGN Italy highlights the outrage over the new pricing structure, particularly with some first-party games reaching €90, and even the $10 charge for the Switch 2 Welcome Tour has drawn ire.

Antonia Dressler from IGN Germany bluntly states that the high price of Mario Kart World, at 90 Euros, is unprecedented and has fueled perceptions of Nintendo's greed. Even the idea of charging for a tutorial game has been met with backlash.

In regions without an official Switch 2 release, such as mainland China, consumers may turn to the gray market. Kamui Ye from IGN China notes that while game prices from Japan and Hong Kong are relatively lower, the official price increase for the console has been generally accepted, particularly when compared to alternatives like the Steam Deck.

Despite the challenges and criticisms, the Switch 2 is poised for success, building on the legacy of its predecessor. However, the high cost of games during a time of economic uncertainty and the potential impact of tariffs on the U.S. launch add significant hurdles. As Nintendo navigates these issues, the excitement around the Switch 2 remains strong, albeit tempered with concerns that are unusual for a Nintendo launch.