Nintendo Warns U.S. Customers: Switch 2 Delivery Not Guaranteed Due to High Demand

Author: Samuel May 15,2025

Nintendo has issued a crucial update regarding the highly anticipated release of the Nintendo Switch 2, alerting U.S. fans about potential delays in release-day delivery. The company, which recently acknowledged challenges in meeting demand in Japan, has now confirmed similar issues for the U.S. market. On their official website, Nintendo warned those who have registered interest in purchasing a Switch 2 through the My Nintendo Store that they cannot guarantee delivery by the console's June 5 release date.

This means that invitation emails for purchasing the console might arrive after the Switch 2 has already launched. However, Nintendo assures customers that they will confirm the shipping date upon purchase. The company expressed gratitude to those who have shown enthusiasm for the new console, stating, "We're thrilled by the enthusiasm for Nintendo Switch 2! Due to the very high demand, we will be working diligently to fulfill orders as product becomes available, but delivery by June 5 is not guaranteed."

In light of these challenges, Nintendo suggests that fans might have a better chance of securing a Switch 2 at launch by pre-ordering through third-party retailers. However, this advice comes at a time when Switch 2 pre-orders have already sold out overnight at major retailers like GameStop. Nintendo's statement directs fans to their retail partners for potential pre-order opportunities, while also reassuring those waiting for a My Nintendo Store invitation that no further action is required after registering their interest.

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The struggle fans faced when trying to pre-order the Switch 2 on April 24, coupled with Nintendo's warning, indicates that obtaining the next-gen console at launch will be challenging. Earlier this week, Nintendo issued a similar warning to customers in Japan, where 2.2 million people applied for a pre-order from the My Nintendo Store, far exceeding the available stock.

According to an FAQ on Nintendo's website, the first batch of invitations for the My Nintendo Store in the U.S. will be sent out starting May 8, 2025. Additional batches will follow periodically until purchasing is opened to everyone. Initial invitations will be sent on a first-come, first-serve basis to eligible registrants who meet specific priority criteria. Those invited will have 72 hours from the time the email is sent to complete their purchase.

To qualify for priority in receiving an invitation, customers must meet the following criteria:

  • Have purchased any Nintendo Switch Online membership.
  • Have maintained any paid Nintendo Switch Online membership for at least 12 months.
  • Have opted in to share gameplay data and accumulated at least 50 hours of total gameplay.

Last week, Nintendo confirmed that Switch 2 pre-orders would begin in the U.S. on April 24, 2025, with the console priced at $449.99 and a launch date of June 5. The Switch 2 + Mario Kart World bundle will be available for $499.99, and the prices for both the physical and digital versions of Mario Kart World ($79.99) and Donkey Kong Bananza ($69.99) will remain unchanged. However, due to ongoing tariff issues, Nintendo has increased the price of Switch 2 accessories.

Originally, pre-orders were set to open on April 9, but Nintendo delayed this to assess the potential impact of tariffs and market conditions. For those eager to pre-order a Nintendo Switch 2, GameCube controller, or other accessories and games, staying updated with the latest news through Nintendo's pre-order guide is essential. This guide also offers tips on how to increase your chances of securing a new Nintendo Switch 2 console on launch day.