Nintendo has officially announced the pre-order date and pricing for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 console and its array of accessories. While the price of the console itself remains unchanged, there's been a noticeable shift in the cost of accessories, which may influence the purchasing decisions of early adopters.
The base model of the Nintendo Switch 2 is priced at $449.99, and the bundle including Mario Kart World comes in at $499.99. Mario Kart World remains a standalone purchase at $79.99, while Donkey Kong Bananza is set to cost $69.99.
However, the real story here is the increase in accessory prices across the board. Let's break it down:
- 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
In their announcement, Nintendo explained that the "price adjustments" for Switch 2 accessories were due to "changes in market conditions" since the initial pricing was announced on April 2. The price hikes range from $5 for major items like the Joy-Con 2 Pair, Switch 2 Pro Controller, and the Camera, to a $10 increase for the Switch 2 Dock Set, which now costs $119.99.
The community has been quick to react to the price increase, especially noting the cost of an additional pair of Joy-Con 2 controllers, which is now just $5 shy of a triple-digit price. This has left many prospective buyers feeling baffled by the expense.
Despite the uproar over pricing, there's a silver lining: many Switch 1 accessories will remain compatible with the Switch 2. As detailed on Nintendo's support site, original Joy-Con controllers and the Nintendo Switch 1 Pro controller can be wirelessly paired with the new console, even if the former cannot be directly attached. Additionally, Super Nintendo and N64 controllers will still work with compatible games on the Switch 2.
Still compatible bbyyyy pic.twitter.com/lbPJiF1ARO
— Pokmar (@Pokmar03) April 2, 2025
Social media is abuzz with users discussing the compatibility of Switch 1 accessories and even considering third-party controller options. These alternatives may not offer all the features of the Switch 2 controllers, such as the C-button or the ability to wake the console, but for some, the savings might justify the trade-off.
Nintendo has cautioned that further price adjustments could occur in the future, stating, "Other adjustments to the price of any Nintendo product are also possible depending on market conditions." This uncertainty adds another layer of consideration for potential buyers, but the assurance that existing Pro controllers can still be used offers some relief.
Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 will open on April 24, 2025, giving fans and gamers a chance to secure their new console despite the adjusted accessory prices.