"Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour: A Paid Experience"

Nintendo has unveiled the Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour, a unique digital game set to launch alongside the Nintendo Switch 2. This game will not come as a pack-in with the console but will be available for purchase separately on the Nintendo eShop. The Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour was showcased during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, where it was described as a "virtual exhibition" designed to introduce players to the new hardware through tech demos, minigames, and interactive experiences.

The footage from the Direct featured a player avatar navigating a giant representation of the Switch 2, exploring its features and learning about its capabilities. The game functions like a virtual museum, offering educational content alongside entertaining minigames such as Speed Golf, Dodge the Spiked Balls, and a Maracas Physics Demo. Nintendo confirmed that the Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour will be available for purchase on the launch day of the Switch 2.

Despite its educational value, the decision to make this a paid, digital-only game rather than a complimentary pack-in has sparked curiosity among fans. As of now, no specific price has been announced for the Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour.

The Switch 2's launch lineup also includes highly anticipated titles like Mario Kart World, Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster, and Deltarune Chapters 1 through 4. With such a competitive lineup, the Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour will need to stand out to justify its separate purchase.

The Nintendo Switch 2 is scheduled to launch on June 5, 2025, with a price of $449.99 USD, or $499.99 for a bundle that includes Mario Kart World.

For a detailed overview of all announcements made during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, you can check out our comprehensive recap.