Switch 2 Price: Nintendo Considers Consumer Expectations

Nintendo is meticulously considering several factors as it deliberates on the pricing for the upcoming Switch 2. While industry analysts have speculated to IGN that the new console might launch at around $400 later this year, Nintendo has not yet confirmed any specific price.

In a recent Q&A session aimed at investors, Nintendo's president, Shuntaro Furukawa, addressed the complex considerations involved in setting the price for the Switch 2. He noted the significant changes in inflation and exchange rates since the original Switch was launched in 2017. "We are aware that, in addition to how inflation is currently proceeding, the exchange rate environment has also changed significantly since around the time we launched Nintendo Switch in 2017," Furukawa stated.

He further emphasized the importance of understanding consumer expectations regarding pricing for Nintendo products. "We also need to consider the price range that consumers expect for Nintendo products. We think a multifaceted consideration of these factors is needed when deciding on the price of a product. I cannot tell you a specific price for Nintendo Switch 2 at this time, but we are taking various factors into account," he added.

Yes, on day 1! 
Nope, I’m fine with my current setup.
I'm waiting to find out more – games, specs, etc!

It's crucial to delve deeper into these considerations. The original Nintendo Switch was launched at $299.99 and has maintained that price for several years. With nearly eight years having passed, the question arises: what price range do consumers now expect from Nintendo products? Competitors Sony and Microsoft have recently raised the prices of their current-generation consoles, driven by rising costs and global economic trends.

As previously mentioned, analysts are predicting a $400 price tag for the Switch 2. This would mark an increase from the $300 launch price of the original Switch, which Nintendo continues to uphold outside of special promotions or bundles. The Nintendo Switch OLED model is priced at $350, while the Nintendo Switch Lite comes in at $200. Although detailed specifications and features of the Switch 2 remain under wraps beyond what was shown in Nintendo's initial teaser, indications suggest a more robust and advanced console, justifying the anticipated $400 price.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

Nintendo has scheduled a Switch 2 Direct for April 2, offering a "closer look" at the console following its initial reveal last month. That reveal showcased the Switch 2's design, hinted at what could be Mario Kart 9, and suggested a new 'mouse' mode for the updated Joy-Con.

However, numerous questions about the Switch 2 remain unanswered, such as the function of the new Joy-Con button, the console's processing power, and the purpose of its new ports. Nintendo is also planning Switch 2 hands-on events in various cities worldwide.

Meanwhile, Furukawa confirmed that Nintendo has no intentions of altering the price of the original Switch, even with the impending release of the Switch 2, indicating that the current model's price will remain stable.