Nintendo has now reportedly announced that pre-orders for its highly anticipated Switch 2 console would be delayed due to the recent announcement of new tariffs by President Donald Trump.
Originally set to begin on April 9, the pre-orders have been postponed as the company analyzes the potential impact of the tariffs and the evolving market conditions. Despite this delay, the launch date for the Switch 2 remains unchanged at June 5, 2025.
This marks a significant corporate response to the tariffs, which have raised concerns among electronics manufacturers about their effects on business operations and consumer spending.
The majority of gaming consoles, including the first-generation Switch, have been manufactured in Asia, particularly in China and Vietnam, where tariffs have increased substantially—up to 54% for China and 46% for Vietnam.
Nintendo has not disclosed where the new consoles will be produced or whether the pricing for the Switch 2, initially set at $450, will be adjusted in response to the tariffs.
Analysts from the IPC, a trade association focused on electronics manufacturing, have estimated that prices for game consoles could rise by up to 50 because of the new tariffs.
The Switch 2 boasts enhancements over its predecessor, promising a larger and faster gaming experience powered by a custom Nvidia chip. It can function as both a handheld device and a home console, catering to a diverse gaming audience.
The anticipated release also coincides with a new installment of the popular Mario Kart series, further sparking excitement among gamers. With the pre-order delays, Nintendo aims to ensure that they navigate this complex market landscape effectively.
[READ MORE: Apple Loses Hundreds of Billions in Value in Wake of Tariffs]
