Nintendo's new gaming console, Switch 2, is going to be in the market with a price of $ 449.99 on 5 June 2025. However, Nintendo has made it clear that this price will not always be like this. The biggest reason for this is the new import duty in America. Nintendo America's boss, Dug Bauzar, said that when the price of switch 2 was fixed, there was no idea of these fees. These fees are levied on goods coming from countries such as Japan (24% fee) and Vietnam (46% fee), where switch 2 is being made. Because of this, pre-order in the US has been postponed, and people are now talking about increasing prices.
The impact of the charges is not only on the nintendo, but on the entire supply chain. Bill Trinen, a senior officer of Nintendo, said that due to the new technology and rising costs in Switch 2, it is already more than the old switch ($ 299). If we look at the price of $ 299 of 2017 as of today, it is about $ 391. Nevertheless, the price of $ 450 is heavy for many gamers. Now if the cost is increased due to the charges, then the Nintendo will either have to bear the burden on themselves or put it on the customers' pockets. Some experts say that the company may initially keep the price as it is, but by 2026, it may increase by 20%.
Nintendo's thinking has always been that profits should be made on their products, not to sell in losses. The Bauzar itself said that the company is working on "thin profits", and the fees have reduced this profit further. Prices of some items of switch 2, such as Joy-Con Controllers, have already increased. It is clear that the Nintendo was not hesitant to spread the cost to the customers. However, gaming analyst David Cole believes that while fixing the price of $ 450, Nintendo had already taken the fees a little bit in mind. That is, there is less scope for increase in price at the time of launch.
From the point of view of customers, the price of switch 2 is already a matter of tension for many people. The old switch was able to make it to every household due to its cheap price of $ 299. Now the price of $ 450, and if it increases further, it can be difficult for common gamers and families to buy it. From above, Switch 2 games, such as Mario Cart World ($ 79.99), are also more expensive than before. Some fans on social media have expressed displeasure over this, but Nintendo's fans are still desperate for pre-order. That is, sale will not make much difference at the time of launch.
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Now the big question in front of Nintendo is whether the price should be increased or not. If the price rises, the brand's credit and large customer class may be damaged. And if the company itself bear the burden of charges, the profit will be reduced. Some people say that Nintendo will limit production and control it by controlling the supply. The company has already shown more than 300,000 switch 2 units, perhaps to avoid fees. Also, Nintendo is promoting digital games, as the effects of fees on them are less.
Finally, there is uncertainty about the launch price of Switch 2. The fee, inflation, and rising costs have made it difficult for the Nintendo. The company described $ 450 as the right price, but the charges spoiled all the mathematics. Nintendo will have to make balance between its fans and the rest of the customers. Prices may not increase at the time of launch, but future increase cannot be denied. This is not just Nintendo, but the story of the entire gaming industry, where fees and costs can change the experience of gamers.