Nintendo Switch 2 Faces Global Criticism Over High Game Prices

The launch of Nintendo’s Switch 2 marks a pivotal moment for the gaming giant. While the console boasts impressive upgrades over its predecessor, delivering the enhanced performance fans craved, global economic challenges have cast a shadow over its debut.

The ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions further complicate matters. With a $450 USD console price and Mario Kart World retailing at $80 USD, the Switch 2 has sparked heated debates amid rising game and hardware costs, both domestically and internationally.

To gauge global reactions to the Switch 2, I consulted editors from IGN’s international branches for insights into the console’s anticipated release.

Global Reactions to the Nintendo Switch 2

Feedback from IGN editors in Europe, South America, and Asia reveals a mixed response. The console’s 120hz refresh rate, HDR, and 4K capabilities have been well-received, but the absence of an OLED screen has drawn criticism.

“IGN Italia’s audience is largely unhappy with the Nintendo Switch 2,” says Alessandro Digioia, editor-in-chief. “Comments across articles and social media highlight concerns over pricing, the lack of an OLED display, no achievement system, and a lackluster launch lineup. While some third-party titles generated excitement, many expected stronger first-party offerings from Nintendo.”

IGN Portugal’s Pedro Pestana echoed similar sentiments: “The Switch 2 feels like an enhanced Switch 1—better in every way but lacking the original’s fresh appeal. That said, the games will make or break it, and Mario Kart World looks impressive.”

In contrast, some regions have embraced the Switch 2’s upgrades. IGN Benelux’s Nick Nijiland notes mostly positive feedback despite the price. “The console sold out within hours in our region. We announced pre-order updates on our Discord, and the influx of new members was staggering.”

IGN Turkey’s Ersin Kilic reports favorable reactions: “Readers appreciate Nintendo addressing criticisms of the original Switch. The improved LCD screen has been a highlight, though the lack of Hall Effect technology in Joy-Con 2, which could reduce drift issues, has drawn criticism.”

IGN China’s Kamui Ye highlighted a split in sentiment. “The reveal disappointed many due to a weak launch lineup and inconsistent regional pricing,” Ye noted. “The absence of new Mario, Zelda, or Animal Crossing titles hurt enthusiasm. However, loyal fans remain optimistic about Nintendo’s long-term vision, valuing backward compatibility, magnetic Joy-Cons, and the company’s track record of software support.”

“Nintendo’s dedicated fanbase seems willing to overlook initial shortcomings, trusting the company’s ability to deliver compelling games over time,” Ye added.

Concerns Over Hardware Costs and Tariffs

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow

The Switch 2 is set to launch at $450 USD in the U.S., with pre-orders delayed due to ongoing tariff disputes under President Trump. This uncertainty has prompted Nintendo to reassess its North American rollout strategy ahead of the June 5 release.

European IGN editors report minimal concern over tariffs, as pre-orders are already underway in their regions.

“In Germany, tariffs aren’t a major issue for the Switch 2,” says IGN Germany’s Antonia Dressler. “However, the console’s price has sparked complaints, with many comparing it unfavorably to the PS5, which is seen as a superior option.”

The Switch 2’s pricing positions it as a direct competitor to the PS5 and Xbox Series X, complicating purchase decisions globally. “In South Africa, the console retails for R12,499,” says IGN Africa’s Zaid Kriel. “It’s no longer a budget-friendly option compared to the PS5 or Xbox Series X, especially with Nintendo’s game price hikes.”

“Pricing debates have overshadowed the Switch 2’s reveal,” says IGN France’s Erwan Lafleuriel. “The lack of surprises, due to prior leaks, and no standout game announcements have left the reveal feeling underwhelming.”

Outside the U.S., tariff impacts are felt more acutely. IGN Brazil’s Matheus de Lucca explains, “The U.S. tariff war exacerbates challenges in Brazil, where the weak Real amplifies price increases. This could limit the Switch 2’s accessibility to a small segment of Brazilian gamers.”

In Japan, Nintendo has introduced a region-locked Switch 2 at a lower price to protect its domestic market. “Nintendo couldn’t exceed 50,000 yen in Japan due to the weak yen,” says IGN Japan’s Daniel Robson. “Region-locking ensures Japanese consoles only support local games and accounts, likely a response to global trade dynamics. While more affordable than the 77,000 yen PS5, the price remains a stretch for many families.”

Game Prices Spark Widespread Frustration

The steep cost of Switch 2 games, particularly the $80 USD price tag for Mario Kart World, has fueled the loudest complaints. While Nintendo has indicated that game prices will vary—ranging from $70 USD to as low as $10 USD for some titles—the precedent set by Mario Kart World has raised fears of a new era of pricier software.

“Game pricing is the dominant concern among Italian gamers,” says IGN Italy’s Digioia. “The jump to €90 for some first-party titles, following the PS5 and Xbox price hikes, feels unjustifiable. The €9.99 price for Switch 2 Welcome Tour and paid upgrades for existing Switch games have further frustrated fans.”

“Gamers are furious,” says IGN Germany’s Dressler. “At 90 Euros, Mario Kart World sets a record for game prices in Germany. Charging for a tutorial game like Switch 2 Welcome Tour feels like pure greed.”

Similar frustrations echo across IGN.com comment threads, with high game prices hitting hard amid rising living costs. In mainland China, where no official Switch 2 release is planned, gamers may turn to gray markets in Japan and Hong Kong, where prices are relatively lower.

“Hong Kong and Japanese game editions are more affordable than Western markets,” says IGN China’s Ye. “Social media feedback suggests most Chinese players find the official pricing reasonable, especially compared to handheld PCs like the Steam Deck, thanks to backward compatibility.”

The Switch 2 is poised for success as a recognizable upgrade to a beloved console, but its triumph is uncertain. Soaring game prices and economic challenges have soured some prospective buyers, while tariff-related delays in the U.S. and potential global stock shortages add further complexity. Despite these hurdles, IGN’s global editors confirm Nintendo has generated significant buzz—albeit with more reservations than anticipated.