Nintendo Switch 2 Game Prices Reach Staggering $80

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During Nintendo’s presentation focusing on the Switch 2, they avoided discussing prices. However, we now have a glimpse into the pricing of some upcoming games for the console, and these prices are far from budget-friendly.

Immediately following the conclusion of the Nintendo Direct presentation, Nintendo provided additional details about the forthcoming Switch 2 on their official website. This included revealing the expensive retail price of the console as well as hinting at the pricing for exclusive Switch 2 video games.

Mario Kart World is one of the major attractions for the console when it launches, according to Nintendo’s North American website. The suggested retail price for

Just like Donkey Kong Bananza, you’ll find two different prices listed on Nintendo’s Spanish store – digital versions are priced at €70 while physical editions go for €80. On the North American listing, it’s mentioned that the recommended retail price is $70, but keep in mind that actual prices may differ.

The new prices represent a noticeable jump compared to Nintendo’s priciest title, excluding physical extras, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, which was launched in March 2023 at $70 for both physical and digital versions. Interestingly, while the price of Zelda itself rose from the usual $60 for Nintendo games, it’s important to note that Nintendo has also released games at lower costs since then.

Currently, there are no known prices for additional Nintendo Switch 2 games like Kirby Air Rider, Drag x Drive, and The Duskbloods from From Software.

Nintendo has shared that certain Nintendo Switch games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, and Super Mario Party: Jamboree will receive paid upgrades for the Switch 2. These enhancements are designed to optimize gameplay and graphics, ensuring smooth operation on the Switch 2. Fortunately, owners of these games won’t need to buy a new version for the Switch 2, but they will require purchasing the digital Upgrade Pack. The price for these upgrades has yet to be disclosed.

It’s too soon to determine if Mario Kart World’s $80 price tag sets a new industry trend, but for quite some time, there have been predictions of a general increase in game prices. While inflation and escalating game development expenses have persisted, the cost of games has remained relatively stable over the past few decades. Some gaming experts believed that Grand Theft Auto VI, scheduled to launch later this year, would be the first game priced above $70, potentially influencing other studios to follow suit. These speculations grew stronger when Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick avoided directly answering questions about GTA VI’s price and instead emphasized their commitment to providing good value at all times.

Discussions about President Trump’s tariffs and their potential effects on prices have popped up on social media since Nintendo’s pricing was unveiled. Daniel Ahmad, a director at Niko Partners and an expert in Asian video game markets, expressed his viewpoint on the platform X, stating, “Contrary to popular belief, these increased costs aren’t due to tariffs. Nintendo games are made in Japan, making them exempt from tariffs on digital goods.

On the contrary, unlike the Nintendo Switch 2 and its associated gadgets, it is currently uncertain if President Trump’s 20% tariff on Chinese imports has affected them, given Nintendo’s past manufacturing in China. Since video game consoles were previously exempt from tariffs during Trump’s first term due to successful lobbying by manufacturers, it’s important to consider whether this exemption still applies today.

No matter what, players can pre-order the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 console from April 9. They have the option to buy it alone or as a package deal with Mario Kart World, priced at $450 and $500 respectively. Since digital versions of Mario Kart World are projected to sell for $80 individually, the bundle provides modest savings for those planning to acquire both items.

The costs of accessories for this new device (Nintendo Switch 2) are significantly higher than those initially released with the original Nintendo Switch. For instance, Joy-Con 2 controllers go for about $90 each, while the Pro Controllers for the Switch 2 are priced at $80. A set of Dock for the Switch 2 will set you back $110, and the new Switch 2 Camera is listed at around $50. However, please note that these prices may fluctuate in the future.

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2025-04-02 21:09