The launch of the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 console faces a significant obstacle in China. According to a report from Nikkei, Nintendo has decided to indefinitely delays pre-orders for the console in China. This decision stems from a combination of demand uncertainty, strict local regulations, and potential impacts from tariffs or trade duties.
Why did Nintendo delay Switch 2 pre-orders in China?
The main reason, according to the report, is that Nintendo wants to wait and better understand the actual demand for the Nintendo Switch 2 in the Chinese market before moving forward with the launch. This tactic mirrors the strategy used with the original console, which officially arrived in China in 2019, two years after its international debut.
At that time, the launch was made possible through a partnership with Tencent, a company that has declined to comment on whether it will be involved in distributing the new console. The lack of clarity regarding this collaboration may be another factor contributing to the delay.
Trump tariffs hit the Switch 2
While Nintendo has not explicitly confirmed that tariffs are driving the delay, the current geopolitical climate suggests that trade tensions and potential tariffs on electronic goods could impact the profitability of the Switch 2 launch in China. Furthermore, the requirement to go through exhaustive regulatory processes further complicates the marketing strategy in the region.
The Nikkei report also notes that all Nintendo Switch 2 hardware and software must be approved by Chinese authorities, which could mean additional restrictions and further delays to market entry.
Additionally, the Chinese video game market is heavily regulated. Despite successful releases like Genshin Impact and Marvel Rivals, the Chinese government enforces strict control over permitted content, making it challenging for foreign consoles to enter and thrive in the market.
Pre-order delays in the United States and other countries
Nintendo announced on Friday, April 4, that Switch 2 pre-orders would be delayed following President Donald Trump’s announcement regarding new tariffs. The original pre-order date was scheduled for April 9, but it did not take place.
A company spokesperson told CNBC: “Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders in the United States will not begin on April 9, 2025, in order to assess the potential impact of tariffs and market evolution. (…) Nintendo will update the date at a later time. The launch date, June 5, 2025, remains unchanged.”
How is the Nintendo Switch 2 different from the original?
The Nintendo Switch 2 has been overhauled with a wide array of technical improvements:
- A 7.9-inch 1080p LCD screen offers vibrant visuals and smoother gameplay.
- Enhanced CPU and GPU capabilities result in faster load times, more responsive controls, and higher graphical fidelity.
- Magnetically attached Joy-Con 2 controllers add flexibility and tactile ease.
- A freely adjustable stand and additional USB-C port on the top of the system for easier charging while docked or in tabletop mode.
- Crisper 3D audio for immersive handheld and tabletop experiences.
- 256 GB of internal storage, a massive increase from the original model, with support for microSD Express cards.
In addition, users can play compatible games from the original Nintendo Switch library, along with a wide range of upgraded or exclusive titles for Nintendo Switch 2.
What games will launch with Switch 2?
Nintendo is pulling out all the stops with an exciting lineup of launch and upcoming titles. Some highlights include:
- Mario Kart World – A fresh take on the franchise with knockout-style racing and open-world exploration.
- Donkey Kong Bananza – A new 3D action platformer featuring environmental destruction and creative exploration.
- Super Mario Party Jamboree – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition – Enhanced with voice commands and video interaction.
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Editions – Featuring performance upgrades and interactive guides with Zelda Notes.
- Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition – Fully optimized for the new system.
- Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, Pokémon Legends: Z-A, Street Fighter 6, and Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade
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