Nintendo's launch of the Switch 2 has been a highly anticipated event, but it arrives at a time of economic uncertainty and amidst a US-China trade war, complicating its prospects. The new console, priced at $450 USD with games like Mario Kart World at $80 USD, has become a flashpoint in discussions about the rising costs of gaming hardware and software globally.
To gauge global reactions to the Switch 2, I connected with editors from IGN's international branches. The feedback paints a mixed picture of the console's reception worldwide.
Global Reception of the Switch 2
Feedback from IGN's global network reveals varied sentiments about the Switch 2. While the hardware upgrades, such as a 120hz refresh rate, HDR, and 4K output, have been well-received, the absence of an OLED screen has been noted as a significant drawback.
Alessandro Digioia from IGN Italy notes, "Our readers are largely dissatisfied with the Nintendo Switch 2. The primary concerns are the price, the lack of an OLED screen, no trophy/achievement system, and a modest launch lineup. While third-party announcements were welcomed, many expected more from Nintendo's first-party titles."
Pedro Pestana from IGN Portugal echoes similar sentiments, stating, "I'm not that impressed with Switch 2, as it's essentially an enhanced version of the original without the novelty factor. However, the games will be the deciding factor, and Mario Kart World looks promising."
In contrast, regions like Benelux and Turkey have shown more positive reactions. Nick Nijiland from IGN Benelux reports, "Despite the price, the console has been well-received here, selling out within hours. We announced pre-order availability on our Discord, and the response was overwhelming."
Ersin Kilic from IGN Turkey adds, "Readers appreciate the improvements made over the original Switch, particularly the better screen, though some are disappointed that Hall Effect was not used in Joy-Con 2 to prevent drift."
Kamui Ye from IGN China provides a balanced view, "There's widespread disappointment over the lackluster launch titles and confusing regional pricing. The absence of new major titles like Mario, Zelda, or Animal Crossing has been a letdown. However, core fans remain optimistic about Nintendo's long-term plans, valuing backward compatibility, hardware refinements, and Nintendo's history of iterative software support."
Hardware Price and Tariff Concerns
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow
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The Switch 2 is set to launch at $450 USD in the US, with pre-orders delayed due to ongoing tariffs from President Trump. These tariffs have forced Nintendo to reconsider its rollout strategy, particularly for the planned June 5 release date.
In Europe, where tariffs are less of a concern, pre-orders are already underway. Antonia Dressler from IGN Germany comments, "In Germany, the tariff situation isn't a worry, but the pricing of the Switch 2 is contentious. Many compare it unfavorably to the PS5, though pre-orders are still coming in."
The Switch 2's pricing places it in direct competition with the PS5 and Xbox Series X, challenging consumers' choices. Zaid Kriel from IGN Africa notes, "At R12,499, it's now in the same price bracket as the PS5 and Xbox Series X, no longer a cheaper alternative, which could be problematic given Nintendo's recent game price hikes."
Erwan Lafleuriel from IGN France adds, "The pricing debate has overshadowed other aspects of the Switch 2 reveal. The lack of a standout feature or game announcement has left many feeling that something is missing."
In Brazil, the tariff war exacerbates the situation. Matheus de Lucca from IGN Brazil states, "The weak Brazilian Real makes the Switch 2 unaffordable for many, especially if US prices rise."
In Japan, Nintendo is launching a region-locked version at a lower price to protect the domestic market. Daniel Robson from IGN Japan explains, "The price is set below 50,000 yen to remain competitive, but it's region-locked to prevent international imports."
Software Pricing: The Biggest Concern
Despite hardware and tariff issues, the most significant concern globally is the price of software. The $80 USD price tag for Mario Kart World has sparked fears of a trend towards more expensive games.
Alessandro Digioia from IGN Italy highlights, "Game pricing is the biggest issue. Many feel Nintendo's new pricing structure is unjustifiable, especially with first-party games at €90 and the €9.99 charge for the Switch 2 Welcome Tour."
Antonia Dressler from IGN Germany states, "The €90 price for Mario Kart World is unprecedented here, and even the tutorial game costing money has made Nintendo seem greedy."
In mainland China, where an official release is uncertain, gamers may turn to the gray market. Kamui Ye from IGN China notes, "Prices in Hong Kong and Japan are lower, and most find the official price acceptable. Chinese Switch 1 players seem receptive to the Switch 2 price increase, especially given backward compatibility."
Despite these challenges, the Switch 2 is poised for success as a recognizable upgrade to a beloved console. However, the prospect of $80 games during economic hardship, combined with uncertainties like tariffs and international politics, casts a shadow over its launch. Nintendo has indeed generated excitement globally, albeit with more caveats than usual.
