### Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders: A Chaotic Launch Amidst High Demand The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 has officially opened for pre-orders in the U.S., with major retailers like Walmart, Best Buy, Target, and GameStop participating in the launch. Pre-orders began at midnight on April 24, 2025, but the excitement quickly turned into chaos as many retailers sold out almost immediately due to overwhelming demand. This situation mirrors the previous PS5 launch, where customers faced significant challenges in securing their orders. Nintendo has also issued warnings regarding potential delivery delays due to the high volume of pre-orders, indicating that not all customers may receive their consoles on the expected release date of June 5, 2025 [https://www.independent.co.uk/extras/indybest/us/nintendo-switch-2-pre-order-us-b2740804.html, https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-04-24/nintendo-switch-2-preorders-quickly-sell-out-at-us-stores]. ### Structure of the Pre-Order Situation 1. **Launch Overview** - Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 went live on April 24, 2025, at midnight ET. - Major retailers involved include Walmart, Best Buy, Target, and GameStop. - The console is priced at $449.99, with a release date set for June 5, 2025 [https://www.polygon.com/pre-order/544294/nintendo-switch-2-amazon-walmart-gamestop-best-buy]. 2. **Demand and Supply Issues** - Pre-orders sold out rapidly, with reports of stock issues and website crashes across multiple retailers. - Nintendo has received over 2.2 million lottery applications in Japan alone, indicating significant global demand [https://www.indianexpress.com/article/technology/gaming/nintendos-robust-lottery-applications-indicate-pent-up-switch-2-demand-9962266]. 3. **Customer Experience** - Many customers reported difficulties during the pre-order process, including website errors and long wait times. - Scalpers have begun reselling pre-orders for inflated prices, with some listings exceeding $700 [https://www.dexerto.com/gaming/nintendo-switch-2-scalpers-are-already-selling-pre-orders-for-over-700-3185366]. 4. **Official Warnings** - Nintendo has cautioned customers that delivery on the release date is not guaranteed due to the high demand and potential stock shortages [https://www.ign.com/articles/nintendo-issues-inevitable-switch-2-my-nintendo-store-warning-to-us-customers-says-release-date-delivery-not-guaranteed-due-to-very-high-demand]. ### Summary of Findings **Key Takeaways:** 1. **Pre-Order Launch**: The Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders commenced on April 24, 2025, and were met with immediate sell-outs across major retailers. 2. **High Demand**: The overwhelming interest is reflected in the staggering number of lottery applications in Japan and the rapid sell-out in the U.S. [https://www.techradar.com/gaming/gaming-industry/nintendo-switch-2-demand-seems-huge-in-japan-with-nintendo-claiming-approximately-2-2-million-people-have-applied-to-buy-one-there]. 3. **Customer Frustration**: Many customers faced significant challenges during the pre-order process, leading to widespread frustration and reports of scalping [https://www.gamerant.com/nintendo-switch-2-pre-order-best-buy-target-not-working-sold-out]. 4. **Delivery Uncertainty**: Nintendo has warned that not all pre-orders may be fulfilled by the launch date, adding to customer anxiety [https://www.shacknews.com/article/144025/nintendo-switch-2-pre-order-volume]. In conclusion, the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 has been marked by intense demand and significant logistical challenges, reminiscent of previous high-profile console releases. As the release date approaches, customers are advised to remain vigilant and prepared for potential delays.