"Switch 2 Global Launch: High Prices Universally Criticized"

What a year for Nintendo to finally release the Switch 2! The hardware itself looks to be everything one could hope for in a Switch successor—a more powerful iteration of the console millions already adore. However, economic uncertainty and global trade tensions have made the Switch 2's launch a more complex affair.

The console's $450 USD price tag and the $80 USD sticker on Mario Kart World have turned the Switch 2 into a focal point amidst rising costs of games and gaming hardware, both in the US and internationally. To understand how the world is reacting to the Switch 2, I consulted editors from IGN brands worldwide.

How the Rest of the World Feels About the Switch 2

Feedback on the Switch 2 varies across the globe. While the hardware enhancements like a 120hz refresh rate, HDR, and 4K output are celebrated, the absence of an OLED screen is considered a significant drawback by many.

"IGN Italia’s readers are largely unhappy with the Nintendo Switch 2," reports Alessandro Digioia, editor-in-chief at IGN Italy. "The primary concerns revolve around the price, the lack of an OLED screen, no trophy/achievement system, and a less than stellar launch lineup. Though third-party announcements were welcomed, many expected more from Nintendo’s first-party titles."

Echoing these sentiments, Pedro Pestana from IGN Portugal remarks, "I'm not particularly impressed with the Switch 2; it's essentially a beefed-up Switch 1—better in every way, but missing the original's novelty. Ultimately, it will come down to the games, and Mario Kart World looks impressive."

On the other hand, regions like Benelux and Turkey show a more positive reception to the hardware upgrades. "Despite the price, the console has been well-received here," says Nick Nijiland from IGN Benelux. "It sold out within hours, and our Discord server saw a surge in new members when we announced pre-order availability."

Ersin Kilic from IGN Turkey adds, "Readers here appreciate Nintendo's effort to address criticisms from the original Switch. The improved screen, despite being LCD, is a plus. However, the absence of Hall Effect in Joy-Con 2, which could prevent drift, has been a point of contention."

Kamui Ye from IGN China offers a balanced view: "While the launch lineup disappointed many due to the absence of new titles from major franchises like Mario or Zelda, core fans remain optimistic about Nintendo's long-term plans. Features like backward compatibility and magnetic Joy-Cons are seen as positives by loyalists."

Hardware Price and Tariff Fears

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow

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The Switch 2 is set to launch at a $450 USD price point in the United States, with pre-orders delayed due to ongoing tariff issues stemming from President Trump's policies. This situation has forced Nintendo to reconsider its rollout strategy ahead of the June 5 release date.

In Europe, tariff concerns are less of an issue, but the console's price remains a hot topic. "In Germany, the tariff situation isn't a worry, but the pricing of the console is," notes Antonia Dressler from IGN Germany. "Many compare it unfavorably to the PS5, yet pre-orders continue to come in."

The Switch 2's price places it directly in competition with the PS5 and Xbox Series X, challenging buyers' choices globally. "Nintendo's official website is taking pre-orders at R12,499, positioning it in the same price range as the PS5 and Xbox Series X," says Zaid Kriel from IGN Africa. "With increased game prices, it's no longer the cheaper alternative."

Erwan Lafleuriel, editor-in-chief at IGN France, notes, "The pricing overshadowed the Switch 2 reveal. The debate is intense, especially as many aspects of the reveal were already leaked, and there was no 'one more thing' moment. Even the games, while good, felt like something was missing."

In regions like Brazil, the tariff war exacerbates the issue. "The weak Real and potential price increases from the US will severely limit the Switch 2's accessibility in Brazil," says Matheus de Lucca from IGN Brazil.

Japan presents a unique case with a region-locked, lower-priced version of the console. "Nintendo had to stay under 50,000 yen due to the weak yen, but also introduced a region lock to prevent import abuse," explains Daniel Robson from IGN Japan. "While still pricey, it's more competitive than the 77,000 yen PS5, and given Nintendo's dominance in Japan, it's likely to remain a must-have."

Software Price Remains the Biggest Pain Point

Despite hardware costs and tariffs, the most significant concern globally is the price of software. Nintendo's decision to price Mario Kart World at $80 USD, alongside other launch window games ranging from $70 to $10 USD, has sparked fears of even higher game prices in the future.

"Game pricing is the biggest issue here," says Alessandro Digioia from IGN Italy. "Nintendo's new pricing structure is seen as unjustifiable, especially with first-party games at €90 and even the Switch 2 Welcome Tour at €9.99 causing backlash."

Antonia Dressler from IGN Germany adds, "People are furious, especially about the €90 price for Mario Kart World. It's unprecedented here, and the idea of paying for a tutorial game feels greedy."

The $10 charge for Switch 2 Welcome Tour adds to the frustration. Yet, in mainland China, where there are no official release plans, gamers might turn to the gray market, where prices could be more favorable. "Game prices in Hong Kong and Japan are lower than in the West, and most players find the official price acceptable," says Kamui Ye from IGN China. "Despite price increases, the Switch 2 is seen as more cost-effective than alternatives like the Steam Deck."

The Switch 2 is poised for success, being a recognizable upgrade to a beloved console. However, the looming threat of $80 games during economic hardship and uncertainties around tariffs and international politics could impact its launch. Despite these challenges, Nintendo has generated excitement worldwide, albeit with more caveats than usual.