Nintendo’s huge Switch 2 pre-order restrictions will stop scalpers in their tracks

The Nintendo Switch 2 launch date has been revealed, and the Japan-based company has a plan to prevent scalpers from buying up stock.

Fans have been waiting for Nintendo to release the Switch 2 for years, and it finally revealed its release date during a Direct on April 2.

The Nintendo Switch 2 hits stores on June 5, 2025, and preorders start on April 9 in the United States.

Fans are worrying about availability once preorders start, and Nintendo has revealed the unique way its working to stop scalpers from taking advantage of their direct sales.

Nintendo has massive requirements for Switch 2 preorders

To pre-order a Switch 2 directly from Nintendo, you have to register your interest in purchasing the long-awaited hybrid console.

From there, Nintendo will invite customers to purchase the device – but there are a handful of other requirements you’ll have to meet to get that invite. First, you’ll have to be at least 18 years old in order to register in the first place.

To get the invite, you must have been the user to purchase a Nintendo Switch Online membership that you’ve kept for at least 12 months. It’s unknown if that needs to be in a row, however. Customers must also share gameplay data with Nintendo and have at least 50 total gameplay hours on their Switch 1.

Nintendo

While this will prevent bots and scalpers from taking all the stock from Nintendo’s direct sales, it’s unknown if they have anything in store for third party sales so far.

Best Buy and GameStop will both be offering preorders on April 9, with the former doing a midnight release for the console on June 5, 2025.

For more information about the Nintendo Switch 2, like the higher resolution screen and Joy-Con upgrades, check out our hub.