Nintendo Switch 2 preorder opened at midnight ET on April 23, 2025, sparking excitement across the U.S. However, what ought to have been a peaceful beginning developed into an internet craze.
Fans around the country experienced troubles at big shops including Target, Walmart, and Best Buy, with many suffering glitches, cart mistakes, and cancellations.
Target Struggles to Handle Early Demand
Target was among the first to go live. Customers made it to the checkout but were quickly blocked by technical problems. Many were asked to re-enter addresses or lost their payment data mid-transaction. Even successful orders were later canceled for some.
Soon after, Target listed the Switch 2 console and the Mario Kart World bundle as out of stock.
Walmart Queue Confusion
Walmart’s website introduced a vague queue system. Shoppers were met with messages like “This deal is almost gone,” causing confusion. Despite the uncertainty, many buyers, including tech journalists, did secure their Switch 2 preorders through the retailer. As of 1:14 AM ET, Walmart still showed low stock, though errors persisted.
Best Buy Kept Fans Waiting
Best Buy promised a midnight launch but displayed a “coming soon” button instead. At 12:31 AM ET, users were put into a queue. Some were still waiting an hour later. Frustration mounted as the site stalled on critical pages.
Amazon and GameStop: The Silent Players
Amazon and GameStop have yet to open Switch 2 preorders officially. Fans remain on high alert, hoping for surprise drops.
Nintendo Switch 2 Pricing and Delays
Originally, Nintendo planned to open preorders on April 9. That changed due to tariff concerns. Preorders were pushed back without warning. Now, the base price starts at $449.99, with accessory prices increased.
A June 5, 2025 launch remains confirmed.
Nintendo Warns of Supply Issues
Just hours before the U.S. preorder chaos, Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa issued a supply warning in Japan. Global demand for the Switch 2 is expected to be intense, and restocks might be limited through launch.
What Comes Next?
GameStop and Amazon may soon release their listings as Switch 2 preorders begin to pour out. It is recommended that buyers move quickly and have many login credentials and payment methods ready.
Source: The Verge
