Switch 2 Sold Out Online?! Here's Where You Might Still Snag One!

How to buy the Nintendo Switch 2: Latest stock availability for consoles and games - Engadget

Article Heading: How to Buy the Nintendo Switch 2: Latest Stock Availability for Consoles and Games

The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 has officially launched in the US, and the hunt is on! The $450 console went on sale on June 5th, sending eager gamers scrambling to secure their new device. While online stock has been fleeting, there are still avenues to explore if you're determined to get your hands on the latest Nintendo console. Let's dive into the current availability and where you might still find a Switch 2.

Online Stock: A Rapid Depletion

As expected, online retailers experienced a rapid depletion of Switch 2 stock. While some retailers like Costco briefly offered bundles, availability has been sporadic and often requires a membership. Keep an eye on these online outlets, but be prepared for disappointment:

  • Walmart: Currently out of stock online.
  • GameStop: Device unavailable online, pointing to a "Find a Store" page.
  • Best Buy: Not selling the console online during launch week.
  • Amazon: No listings for the Switch 2 or first-party games.
  • Newegg: Lists the Switch 2 but provides no sales start date.

Your Best Bet: Brick-and-Mortar Stores

Reports suggest that visiting physical retail locations offers a higher chance of success. Several Engadget staff members managed to purchase a Switch 2 at local Target and GameStop stores even without pre-orders. Here's where to focus your efforts:

  • Target: Started selling in stores on June 5th. Limited supply, but worth checking your local stores. One Engadget staffer successfully purchased a console as late as Thursday afternoon.
  • GameStop: Held launch events and advertises in-store availability, which varies by location. One store in the NYC area had approximately 80 units available on Thursday morning.
  • Walmart: Limited quantities available in-store; inventory varies by location.
  • Best Buy: Held in-store launch events with limited stock at retail locations starting June 5th.

Membership Retailers: Occasional Opportunities

Keep an eye on membership-based retailers like Costco and Sam's Club, which have occasionally had bundles available. Costco, in particular, has seen Mario Kart World bundles come and go. These bundles often include extras like a Switch Online subscription.

Nintendo's Invite System: A Long Shot

Nintendo is offering the Switch 2 via an invite system, requiring at least 12 months of Switch Online membership and 50 hours of Switch 1 playtime as of April 2nd. While it's worth signing up if you meet the criteria, don't expect immediate results, as many registrants are still awaiting invites.

Games and Accessories: Generally Available

While the console itself is hard to find, most Switch 2 games and accessories remain widely available. Key titles include:

  • Mario Kart World ($80)
  • Donkey Kong Bananza ($70) (Pre-order available; releases mid-July)
  • The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (Switch 2 version)

Popular accessories like controllers, cameras, and microSD cards are generally in stock, though official Nintendo carrying cases seem to be in shorter supply.

Notable Accessories:

  • Samsung microSD Express Card (256GB) for Nintendo Switch 2 ($60)
  • Joy-Con 2 bundle ($95)
  • Switch 2 Pro Controller ($85)
  • Switch 2 Camera ($55)
  • Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip ($40)

Bundles: A Pricey Alternative

If you're having trouble finding the base console, consider bundles, even if they're more expensive. The Mario Kart World bundle has been more readily available, and given Mario Kart's $80 retail price, it might be a worthwhile option.

The Hunt Continues...

Securing a Nintendo Switch 2 right now requires persistence and a bit of luck. Focus on visiting local retailers, keep an eye on membership-based stores, and consider a bundle if the base console proves elusive. Don't give up hope – with a little effort, you'll be racing around the Mushroom Kingdom in no time! Good luck, and happy gaming!

Source: https://www.engadget.com/gaming/nintendo/how-to-buy-the-nintendo-switch-2-latest-stock-availability-for-consoles-and-games-120039533.html

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