The Nintendo Switch 2 impressed gamers with its innovative technology and strong launch lineup. But for many fans, there’s a major downside: the price tag. Set to launch at $449.99, with exclusive games priced around $79.99 each, its the most expensive Nintendo system to date.
Fans have turned to Change.org to launch a petition demanding a price drop for both the Switch 2 and its games. While they say they’re excited about the new console, many worry they simply won’t be able to afford it.
A Console for Few
The petition, titled Lower the Prices of Nintendo Switch 2: Video Games Are Not Just for the Rich!, praises the upcoming console and the games revealed during the latest Nintendo Direct, but urges the company to reconsider its pricing strategy arguing that high prices could exclude casual gamers or those with limited budgets.
“Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza look way too good to be true and I can’t wait to try them. However, there is one big problem that will make it difficult for us to access Nintendo’s new exclusive content, and that’s non other than the pricing,” the petition notes. “It’s really sad to see that a company who always was consistent with their pricing has decided to take the path that other companies like Sony took.”
It seems highly unlikely that Nintendo changes course, especially with additional challenges like potential tariffs under President Donald Trump’s administration, which could drive prices even higher.
Nintendo Breaks Silence on Switch 2 Pricing Concerns
Nintendo has defended the pricing citing the advanced tech packed into the console. The company explained that game prices will vary based on factors like production costs, game length, and replay value.
Doug Bowser, president of Nintendo of America, added fuel to the fire when he acknowledged that the Switch 2 is a more premium product, but noted that those unable to afford it could continue playing on the original Switch. The remark drew comparisons to a now-infamous quote from Don Mattrick, who once told players to buy an XBOX 360 if they couldn’t afford the XBOX One.