Nintendo has officially announced the pre-order details and pricing for the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 console and its accessories. While the console's price remains unchanged, there's been a notable shift in the cost of accessories, prompting a mixed reaction among early adopters and potentially impacting their pre-order decisions.
The base model of the Nintendo Switch 2 is priced at $449.99, and the bundle that includes Mario Kart World remains at $499.99. Mario Kart World, a popular kart racing game, is available as a standalone purchase for $79.99, while Donkey Kong Bananza is set at $69.99.
However, the pricing for accessories has seen a broad increase. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the new prices:
- Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller - $84.99
- Joy-Con 2 Pair - $94.99
- Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip - $39.99
- Joy-Con 2 Strap - $13.99
- Joy-Con 2 Wheel Set - $24.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 Camera - $54.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 Dock Set - $119.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector - $39.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case - $84.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 AC Adapter - $34.99
Nintendo justified these price adjustments in their announcement, citing "changes in market conditions." Notably, higher-priced items such as the Joy-Con 2 Pair, Switch 2 Pro Controller, and the camera have increased by $5, while the Switch 2 Dock Set has seen a $10 increase, bringing it to $119.99 from its previous $109.99.
The community has been vocal about the significant rise in the cost of additional Joy-Cons, with the Joy-Con 2 Pair now just $5 shy of a triple-digit price. This has led to some confusion and dissatisfaction among potential buyers.
Amidst the pricing concerns, there's a silver lining for fans. Nintendo has confirmed that many accessories from the original Switch will be compatible with the Switch 2. As per their support site, the original Joy-Con controllers and the Nintendo Switch 1 Pro Controller can be paired wirelessly with the new console, although the former cannot be attached directly. Additionally, classic controllers like the Super Nintendo and N64 models will remain usable with compatible games.
Still compatible bbyyyy pic.twitter.com/lbPJiF1ARO
— Pokmar (@Pokmar03) April 2, 2025
Many fans are actively discussing the compatibility of Switch 1 accessories and considering third-party alternatives. While these options may not offer all the features of the Switch 2 controllers, such as the C-button or wake functionality, they could represent a cost-saving opportunity for some buyers.
Nintendo has also indicated that further price adjustments might occur in the future due to ongoing market conditions. This news provides some reassurance for those who own a Pro controller from the previous model, as it can still be used with the Switch 2.
Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 are scheduled to begin on April 24, 2025.