"Switch 2 Global Launch: High Prices Cause Universal Discontent"

What a year for Nintendo to finally release the Switch 2. The hardware itself is everything fans could have hoped for in a successor to the beloved Switch—a more powerful version that retains the beloved hybrid nature of the original. However, amidst global economic uncertainty, the launch of the Switch 2 has become a much more complex issue.

Adding to the complexity is the ongoing trade war between the United States and China. With a $450 USD price tag for the console and $80 USD for Mario Kart World, the Switch 2 has become a focal point in the escalating costs of gaming hardware and software, both in the US and internationally.

To gain insights into global reactions to the Switch 2, I spoke with editors from IGN's international branches in Europe, South America, and Asia to understand the reception to its impending release.

How the Rest of the World Feels About the Switch 2

Feedback from IGN's global editors reveals a mixed reception to the Switch 2. The hardware improvements, such as a 120hz refresh rate, HDR, and 4K output, have been well-received, but the absence of features like an OLED screen is a notable disappointment for many.

"IGN Italia’s readers are predominantly dissatisfied with the Nintendo Switch 2," says Alessandro Digioia, editor-in-chief of IGN Italy. "The main concerns are the price, the lack of an OLED screen, no trophy/achievement system, and a modest launch line-up. While third-party announcements were welcomed, many expected more from Nintendo’s first-party titles."

Pedro Pestana from IGN Portugal echoed similar sentiments, adding a personal perspective: "I'm not that impressed with Switch 2; it's essentially a souped-up Switch 1—better in every way, but without the original's novelty. Ultimately, it will come down to the games, and Mario Kart World looked impressive."

Other regions have shown more enthusiasm for the hardware enhancements. Nick Nijiland from IGN Benelux reported positive feedback despite the price: "The console was well-received in our region, selling out within hours despite some price complaints. We announced pre-order availability on our Discord server, leading to a surge in new members."

Ersin Kilic from IGN Turkey highlighted positive feedback from their readers: "Nintendo addressed many criticisms from the original Switch, and the improved screen quality was well-received. However, the lack of Hall Effect in Joy-Con 2, which could have reduced Joy-Con drift, was a significant criticism."

Kamui Ye from IGN China provided a balanced view: "The reveal event disappointed many due to a lackluster launch lineup and confusing regional pricing. The absence of new titles from Mario, Legend of Zelda, or Animal Crossing was a notable negative. However, core fans remain optimistic about Nintendo's long-term plans, prioritizing backward compatibility and hardware refinements like magnetic Joy-Cons."

"Ultimately, Nintendo's loyal fanbase seems willing to overlook short-term issues, confident in the company's history of enhancing platforms through compelling games over time," Ye added.

Hardware Price and Tariff Fears

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 not yet started due to ongoing tariff issues with President Trump's policies. This situation has led Nintendo to reconsider its rollout strategy ahead of the June 5 release date.

European editors, unaffected by the tariffs, report different concerns. Antonia Dressler from IGN Germany noted, "In Germany, the tariff situation isn't a concern, but the console's price is. Many are comparing it unfavorably to the PS5, which is seen as the superior console. Despite the complaints, pre-orders are still coming in."

The Switch 2's pricing positions it as a direct competitor to the PS5 and Xbox Series X in many markets, complicating consumer choices. Zaid Kriel from IGN Africa stated, "In South Africa, the Switch 2 is priced at R12,499, placing it in the same bracket as the PS5 and Xbox Series X. It's no longer the more affordable option, especially with Nintendo's increased game prices."

Erwan Lafleuriel, editor-in-chief of IGN France, emphasized that the pricing overshadowed other aspects of the Switch 2 reveal: "The debate centers around prices, partly because the reveal lacked surprises. Even the games, while good, felt like they were missing something."

In regions like Brazil, the tariff war exacerbates the issue. Matheus de Lucca from IGN Brazil explained, "The weak Brazilian Real and potential price increases in the US could make the Switch 2 unaffordable for many in Latin America."

In Japan, Nintendo has introduced a region-locked version at a lower price to protect its domestic market. Daniel Robson, executive producer at IGN Japan, noted, "Nintendo couldn't exceed 50,000 yen due to the weak yen. The region lock prevents importation and stock buying by tourists, a direct response to global trade tensions. While still expensive, it's more competitively priced than the PS5 at 77,000 yen."

Software Price Remains the Biggest Pain Point

Despite hardware and tariff issues, the most significant concern for many is the cost of software. Nintendo's decision to price Mario Kart World at $80 USD has sparked widespread criticism, especially as other launch window games are priced between $10 USD and $70 USD.

"Game pricing is the biggest issue for our readers and the Italian gaming community," said Alessandro Digioia from IGN Italy. "Nintendo's new pricing structure, with some first-party games at €90, is seen as unjustifiable, especially with the €9.99 price for Switch 2 Welcome Tour and paid upgrades for existing games."

Antonia Dressler from IGN Germany added, "People are angry. The €90 price for Mario Kart World is unprecedented for a base game in Germany, and charging for the tutorial game adds to the perception of greed."

In mainland China, where there are no official plans for a Switch 2 release, gamers may turn to the gray market. Kamui Ye from IGN China noted, "Game prices in Hong Kong and Japan are lower than in Western markets, and most find the official price acceptable. Despite the console's price increase, it's seen as more cost-effective than handheld PCs like the Steam Deck, especially with backward compatibility."

The Switch 2 is poised for success as a recognizable upgrade to one of the most beloved consoles. However, the looming threat of $80 games during economic hardship has soured many potential buyers. With many uncertainties, particularly in the US due to tariffs, and potential global stock shortages due to international politics, the Switch 2's launch remains a complex narrative. Yet, it's clear from discussions with IGN's global team that Nintendo has generated excitement worldwide, albeit with notable caveats.