Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order: Check release date, availability, and what to expect before launch

The Nintendo Switch 2 , one of the most anticipated gaming consoles of 2025, is rapidly approaching its official release date of June 5. As interest surges across the gaming community, consumers are racing to secure pre-orders amid limited availability and high demand.

While some US retailers briefly restocked canceled orders, the only currently confirmed pre-order window comes directly from Nintendo’s own store on May 8. This article breaks down everything potential buyers need to know about how and when to pre-order the Nintendo Switch 2, eligibility requirements for the official Nintendo window, restock patterns from major retailers, and why demand has already outpaced supply globally.


Nintendo Switch 2 confirmed pre-order date: My Nintendo Store – May 8, 2025

How it works:

• The only officially confirmed upcoming pre-order opportunity is via the My Nintendo Store. On May 8, Nintendo of America will begin sending invitation emails to selected Nintendo users who meet specific criteria. Eligible users will be allowed to purchase the Nintendo Switch 2 console, accessories, and launch titles.

Eligibility requirements:

• To qualify for the May 8 invitation, users must meet the following requirements:
• Nintendo Switch Online Membership active for at least 12 consecutive months.
• Minimum of 50 hours of gameplay logged on a registered Switch device.
• Gameplay data sharing must be enabled in the privacy settings to verify usage.

These requirements ensure the invites go to actual players instead of bots or mass-purchase scalpers. The invitations will be valid for 72 hours and orders will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis.


What’s the hype around Nintendo Switch 2

Nintendo’s successor to the wildly successful original Switch console was officially revealed earlier in 2025, following years of speculation. Promising significant hardware upgrades, enhanced graphics capabilities, and new exclusive titles, the Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5 in the US and select global markets. With the previous console reaching nearly 140 million units sold, anticipation for the next generation is extremely high.

Adding to the fervor is Nintendo’s limited distribution strategy, which is designed to prioritize real fans and minimize scalping by resellers. However, this strategy has also contributed to an intense scramble for pre-orders—especially as major retailers such as Walmart, Target, and Best Buy report sold-out inventory within minutes during past drops.


Major US retailers: Restock patterns and what to watch for

While Nintendo’s official store remains the most structured pre-order opportunity, several retailers are expected to offer limited restocks in the weeks leading up to the June 5 release. Here’s a breakdown of the current retailer status:

1. Walmart

• Previously had the largest volume of Switch 2 stock.
• Occasionally restocks canceled orders without prior announcement.
• Best strategy: monitor site early mornings and use stock tracking tools.

2. Target

• Had a short pre-order window last month that closed within 15 minutes.
• No official date for restock; potential for inventory returns closer to launch.

3. Best Buy

• Historically reliable for console restocks with queuing systems in place.
• Inventory was last seen briefly in late April.
• Expected to restock again based on past product cycles.

4. GameStop

• Offered bundles during previous pre-orders.
• May restock based on pre-order cancellations.

5. Sam’s Club & Costco

• Known for offering bulk or bundle deals.
• No confirmed date, but inventory may appear around launch week.

6. Amazon

• Notably absent from early pre-order listings.
• May open orders closer to or after launch.

Worldwide rush for Switch 2 sparks apology from Nintendo

The intense demand is not isolated to the US market. In Japan, where Nintendo ran a similar invite-based lottery system for the Switch 2, the company publicly apologized for not meeting expectations after applications “far exceeded projections.” With the global supply chain still stabilizing post-pandemic, production capacity is limited. Additionally, the new console’s release coincides with a fresh wave of first-party games, driving up demand even further.


Switch 2 delivery timeline and caveats

Even if selected for the May 8 Nintendo Store invite, receiving a console by launch day is not guaranteed. Nintendo has already clarified that due to high demand, shipments may be staggered. Some customers may not receive their units until weeks after the official release.

Official statement from Nintendo:

“We will be working diligently to fulfill orders as product becomes available, but delivery by June 5 is not guaranteed. Your invitation email may arrive after the Nintendo Switch 2 launch.”

This suggests invites may be sent out in rolling waves, depending on inventory and fulfillment capacity.


How to set Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order alerts

To increase your chances of securing a Switch 2 before launch:

• Sign up for restock alerts from trusted tech tracking services.
• Turn on email and push notifications from retailers.
• Join verified gaming Discord communities or Reddit forums for early heads-up.
• Consider following retail insiders on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) for real-time updates.

Final steps after Nintendo Switch 2 pre-ordering

Once a pre-order is secured:

• Keep confirmation emails and order numbers safe.
• Check shipping and payment details regularly.
• Download the My Nintendo app to track delivery status.
• Prepare for the Switch 2 launch by transferring save data, updating Joy-Con controllers, or exploring upcoming titles.

Nintendo Switch 2 FAQs

When will I hear about my Nintendo Switch 2 invitation?

Eligible Nintendo Account holders in the United States and Canada—aged 18 and older—can sign up for a chance to receive an invitation to buy the new Nintendo Switch 2. Invitations will start rolling out on May 8, 2025, and will continue to be distributed in waves over time until Nintendo opens general access through the My Nintendo Store.

The first wave of emails will go to those who meet specific qualifications and registered early, with availability determined by a first-come, first-served approach. Once your invite lands in your inbox, you’ll have a 72-hour window to finalize your purchase.


What are the requirements to qualify for priority access?

To be considered for early access by April 2, 2025, you must:

• Be the original purchaser of a Nintendo Switch Online membership.
• Have maintained any paid Nintendo Switch Online membership for at least 12 months.
• Opt in to Nintendo's gameplay data sharing and have logged at least 50 hours of total playtime.

These criteria are in place to prioritize long-time users and reduce access for bots or resellers.


Will I receive my order on launch day (June 5, 2025)?

While Nintendo aims to fulfill orders as soon as possible, release-day delivery is not guaranteed. Timing depends on when your order is processed and when inventory is available. You’ll only be able to purchase once you’ve received your invite email. At checkout, your estimated ship date will be displayed.

If getting the console on release day is important to you, check with authorized third-party retailers like Walmart, Best Buy, or Target. These stores may offer launch-day shipping depending on stock and location.
Keep in mind: If you buy the console from a retailer before getting a Nintendo invite, you're not obligated to purchase again through My Nintendo Store.


What payment options are available?

When you check out through the My Nintendo Store, you’ll need to pay the full amount upfront. Accepted payment methods include:

• Visa
• Mastercard
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay

Please note that Nintendo eShop gift cards cannot be used for this transaction.


Where does Nintendo ship and can I pick up in-store?

Shipments for Nintendo Switch 2 orders from the My Nintendo Store are available across the U.S. (including territories and military addresses) and Canada. Orders can also be shipped to P.O. Boxes in both countries.
However, Nintendo does not offer in-store pickup. This includes locations like Nintendo NEW YORK and Nintendo SAN FRANCISCO—online purchases will be shipped only.


When will my Switch 2 order be delivered?

Once your purchase is complete, you’ll receive an estimated shipping date at checkout. This date is based on when your invite was received and when your order was placed.

Due to the high volume of interest and shipping logistics, Nintendo cannot promise that your console will arrive on launch day (June 5, 2025), although efforts will be made to ship it as quickly as possible.


How should I prepare for my 72-hour purchase window?

To make the most of your limited shopping window, here are a few steps you should take in advance:
Whitelist Nintendo’s email: Add no-reply@noa.nintendo.com to your email’s safe sender list to prevent the invite from being filtered as spam.

• Check all folders: Look in your Spam, Junk, or Promotions folders in case the invite email doesn’t appear in your main inbox.
• Log in beforehand: Ensure your Nintendo Account credentials are working and up to date so you can access the My Nintendo Store smoothly.
• Prepare payment details: Have an accepted payment method ready (Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, or Google Pay).
• Know your shipping info: Double-check your delivery address in advance. Once the order is placed, you won’t be able to modify shipping details.
• One-time use only: The invitation is specific to your account and cannot be transferred. You must complete the transaction using the same account that was selected.

If payment fails during checkout, you can try again within your 72-hour window. After that, your cart will be cleared.


Can I add games and accessories to my order?

Yes, once you receive your invite and log into the My Nintendo Store, you can purchase additional items along with your Switch 2 console. These may include first-party games, accessories, or bundles.
However, Nintendo is enforcing strict purchase limits:

• One console per Nintendo account
• One of each accessory per account

Be sure to complete your entire order during your 72-hour window—items cannot be added or changed afterward.



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