Global Outcry Over High Switch 2 Game Prices

Nintendo's release of the Switch 2 comes at a pivotal time, offering a much-anticipated upgrade to the beloved original console. With features like a 120hz refresh rate, HDR, and 4K output, the Switch 2 promises a more powerful gaming experience. However, the global economic uncertainty and the ongoing trade war between the United States and China have added layers of complexity to its launch, especially with the console priced at $450 USD and Mario Kart World at $80 USD.

To gauge global reactions, I connected with editors from various IGN branches around the world. The feedback has been varied, reflecting both excitement and concerns.

How the Rest of the World Feels About the Switch 2

Across Europe, South America, and Asia, the Switch 2 has received mixed reviews. While the hardware enhancements are generally well-received, some drawbacks have sparked debate. For instance, the absence of an OLED screen has been a point of contention.

Alessandro Digioia, editor-in-chief of IGN Italy, reports that their readers are predominantly dissatisfied. "The main concerns revolve around the price point, the lack of an OLED screen, the absence of a trophy/achievement system, and a modest launch lineup," he explains. "While third-party announcements were welcomed, many readers expected more from Nintendo's first-party titles."

In Portugal, Pedro Pestana of IGN Portugal shares similar sentiments, noting the Switch 2 feels like a souped-up version of the original without the same novelty. "It's going to come down to the games, and Mario Kart World looked damn nice," he adds.

Contrastingly, regions like Benelux and Turkey seem more receptive. Nick Nijiland from IGN Benelux mentions positive feedback despite the price, with the console selling out quickly. "We put up a post on our website stating that we would let our readers know through our Discord server when pre-orders went live, and our Discord got so many new members that day, it was insane," he says.

Ersin Kilic from IGN Turkey highlights positive views on the console's improvements, though some criticized the lack of Hall Effect in Joy-Con 2, which could have helped with Joy-Con drift issues.

In China, Kamui Ye from IGN China notes widespread disappointment with the launch lineup and pricing strategies. "The reveal event has been met with disappointment due to its lackluster launch title lineup and perplexing regional pricing strategies," Ye explains. However, optimism remains among core fans who value backward compatibility and Nintendo's long-term plans.

Hardware Price and Tariff Fears

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow

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The Switch 2 is set to launch at $450 USD in the United States, with pre-orders delayed due to tariffs. These tariffs, stemming from President Trump's policies, have complicated Nintendo's rollout strategy, especially for the June 5 release date.

In Europe, where tariffs are less of an issue, pre-orders are already underway. Antonia Dressler from IGN Germany notes that while the pricing is a concern, it hasn't stopped pre-orders. "There are a lot of complaints about the pricing of the console, with direct comparisons to the PS5, which is seen as the better console," she says.

The Switch 2's pricing positions it as a competitor to the PS5 and Xbox Series X globally. Zaid Kriel from IGN Africa points out, "It's no longer a cheaper alternative, and that could be a problem, especially with the increase in game prices Nintendo has introduced."

Erwan Lafleuriel, editor-in-chief of IGN France, adds that the pricing debate overshadows other aspects of the Switch 2 reveal. "The debate is raging mainly about prices, but I believe because it was kind of easy to overshadow a reveal lacking in many other aspects," he says.

In regions like Brazil, the tariff war exacerbates the issue, with Matheus de Lucca from IGN Brazil stating, "The current tariff war initiated by the United States makes the scenario even worse for Brazil... The scenario of uncertainty and a possible increase in the price of the console could make the Switch 2 accessible to only a very small group of players in the Brazilian market."

In Japan, Nintendo has taken a unique approach with a region-locked version priced lower to protect its domestic market. Daniel Robson from IGN Japan explains, "The weak yen means the relative pricing scale is very different here... our cheaper Switch only plays Japanese games and supports only Japanese accounts. I’m sure this is a direct result of the global trade situation."

Software Price Remains the Biggest Pain Point

Despite hardware and tariff concerns, the price of software has emerged as the most significant issue. The $80 USD price tag for Mario Kart World has stirred controversy, with fears that it sets a precedent for more expensive games.

Alessandro Digioia from IGN Italy notes, "Game pricing is by far the biggest issue raised... Many feel that Nintendo's new pricing structure is unjustifiable, especially in light of recent increases that came with the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S era."

Antonia Dressler from IGN Germany echoes this sentiment, saying, "Especially with the 90 Euro for Mario Kart World, that is a record for a video game in Germany... It also seems ridiculous that the tutorial game will cost anything — Nintendo just looks absurdly greedy right now."

In mainland China, where there are no current plans for an official release, Kamui Ye from IGN China observes that game prices in Hong Kong and Japan are relatively lower. "Observations from social media comments under our content show most players find the official price acceptable," Ye says.

Despite these challenges, the Switch 2 is poised for success as an upgrade to one of the most popular consoles. However, the high cost of games during economic hardship and uncertainties around tariffs and international politics could impact its launch. What's clear from global feedback is that Nintendo has generated excitement, albeit with significant caveats.