Nintendo Fans Get First Look at Switch 2
Nintendo fans recently gathered at an event near Tokyo to try out the much-anticipated. While excitement was high, many attendees, like Hidenori Tanaka, a 55-year-old real estate employee, expressed concerns over rising prices due to tariffs. “Since Mr. Trump became president, tariffs have increased, which could raise the price of both the console and accessories,” Tanaka shared.
Tariffs Could Affect Global Prices
Consumers worldwide could face higher prices for electronic devices, as tariffs imposed by the U.S. administration on countries like China have raised costs for companies. Although former President Trump rolled back some tariffs, the threat of a trade war still looms, creating uncertainty for global supply chains.
Rising Demand Despite Price Concerns
Gamers lined up early at the Makuhari Messe convention center in Tokyo to test out the Switch 2. Early signs show strong consumer demand for the device, despite worries about price hikes. The original Switch, released in 2017, sold over 150 million units, significantly boosting Nintendo’s fortunes. Nintendo announced it received 2.2 million applications for the Switch 2 lottery in Japan alone, unable to meet all the demand.
“I didn’t think I had a chance. Everyone on social media said they missed out, so I assumed I would too,” said Hyuma Hashiguchi, a 28-year-old lucky winner of the lottery.
Global Hands-On Events
Nintendo is also holding hands-on events worldwide, including in New York, Berlin, and Hong Kong. The Switch 2 will cost ¥49,980 ($350) for a Japanese-language-only version. In the U.S., pre-orders were briefly paused due to tariff concerns but resumed at $449.99.
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