Nintendo Store Sets Preorder Limits on Switch 2 to Combat Scalpers

The eagerly awaited Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025, and it's expected to be a highly sought-after product. To ensure that genuine fans get their hands on the new console, Nintendo is introducing a structured pre-order system through the My Nintendo Store. Here’s how it works:

Nintendo Account holders can now register their interest in pre-ordering a Nintendo Switch 2 system and select accessories directly from the official Nintendo Store. Once registered, you'll receive an invitation email when it's your turn to pre-order, and this invitation will be valid for 72 hours. However, there are specific criteria you need to meet to be eligible for this invitation:

"Invitation emails will be prioritized on a first-come, first-served basis to registrants who have purchased a Nintendo Switch Online membership with a minimum of 12 months of paid membership and a minimum of 50 total gameplay hours, as of April 2, 2025," according to the fine print on the site.

These invitations are non-transferable and will be sent to the email address linked to your Nintendo Account. During the invitation period, you're limited to one system and one accessory per account. You can choose between a base Nintendo Switch 2 or a bundle that includes Mario Kart World.

Once you place your order, it will be shipped after purchase. Nintendo will provide an approximate shipping date at the time of ordering, but they emphasize that release-day delivery is not guaranteed due to processing and shipment times.

These measures appear to be designed to ensure that the Nintendo Switch 2 ends up in the hands of dedicated fans, rather than being flipped by scalpers on the secondary market. Scalping has been a significant issue with recent high-demand product launches like the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and the Pokémon Trading Card Game.

Valve successfully managed scalping with their Steam Deck by implementing a queue system tied to account activity. It’s encouraging to see Nintendo adopting a similar approach with their My Nintendo Store process to prioritize long-time Switch users.

While the My Nintendo Store isn’t the only way to secure a Nintendo Switch 2, this method could help many dedicated Switch 1 owners navigate the potential chaos of launch day pre-orders.

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