Nintendo fans are fighting back against scalpers by flooding auction sites with fake listings for the Nintendo Switch 2. This tactic aims to make it harder for buyers to find scalper listings on platforms like eBay, where the upcoming console is being offered for prices ranging from $500 to $2,000.
As the Nintendo Switch 2 launch date of June 5 approaches, scalpers have started posting their overpriced pre-orders, promising delivery within 40 business days of purchase. In response, fans are posting fake listings at or below retail prices to push these scalper auctions further down the search results.
For example, a listing titled "Nintendo Switch v2 video games console PREORDER" appears to offer the console for $450. However, the description reveals the true nature of the listing: "PRE-ORDER SCREENSHOT Please note: You are ordering a picture of the Nintendo Switch 2. This listing is to combat bots and scalpers. No refunds. No cancels. > You will receive an png image of a switch 2. No console." These fake listings often include "read description" in the title to distinguish them from genuine offers.
Another listing for $550 humorously states: "Do not, I repeat DO NOT BUY this unless you are a bot or just wish to donate $550 to me. I will be shipping a laser-printed image of the Switch 2 Mario Kart World bundle and that will be all you get. NO REFUNDS. NO. REFUNDS. NO REFUNDS. You will NOT BE REFUNDED you will be receiving the picture whether you like it or not." The listing emphasizes the absence of refunds and clarifies that buyers will only receive a printed image.
Similarly, a $499.99 auction explains: "This listing is for a printed picture of my Nintendo Switch 2 console confirmed preorder. You will receive a printed picture, folded, and sent in a standard letter envelope. This is NOT for the console itself. No refunds, No returns. F the bots."
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The Nintendo Switch 2 was originally set to launch on June 5, 2025, with a starting price of $449.99. However, pre-orders were delayed in the U.S. due to import tariffs enacted by President Trump, which affected financial markets. Pre-orders eventually went live on April 24 at the same price, and demand was as high as anticipated. For more information, check out IGN's Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order guide.
This week, Nintendo addressed compatibility issues with its new GameCube controller, noting potential problems when using it with modern Nintendo Switch games.
