Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Order Delay in Canada Due to Tariffs

Gamers worldwide let out a collective groan last week when the pre-order date for the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 shifted from April 9 to an uncertain "who knows when?" This change came in the wake of import tariffs introduced by President Trump, which sent financial markets into a tailspin. The ripple effect has crossed borders, with Nintendo Canada confirming delays in their pre-order schedule as well. So, if you were planning to secure your console through a relative in Winnipeg, it's time to rethink that strategy.

In a statement to the Canadian tech site MobileSyrup, Nintendo of Canada clarified, "Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 in Canada will not start on April 9, 2025, in order to align with the timing of pre-orders to be determined in the U.S." They further assured that while the pre-order timing remains uncertain, the launch date of June 5, 2025, remains unchanged.

This news echoes the statement Nintendo of America provided to IGN on April 4, although the Canadian statement omits specific references to new tariffs. Nintendo of America stated, "Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S. will not start April 9, 2025, in order to assess the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions. Nintendo will update timing at a later date. The launch date of June 5, 2025, is unchanged."

As we approach the original pre-order launch date, there's still no clear timeline on when eager fans can start refreshing their browsers and readying their credit cards. This uncertainty leaves gamers in a state of limbo, with additional concerns about potential price increases beyond the initially announced $449.99.

Meanwhile, in the UK, pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 have already gone live, with smaller retailers such as EE, GAME, and Smyths quickly selling out. Scalpers have jumped on the opportunity, listing pre-orders on eBay for £500 ($639) or more, significantly above the retail price of £395.99 ($506).

For those looking for more information, be sure to check out everything announced at the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct, and our comprehensive interview with Nintendo of America's Bill Trinen about the Nintendo Switch 2.

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