Nintendo raises the price of Switch 2 and offers a new bundle

Nintendo has announced that the price of the Switch 2 will increase, alongside the introduction of a new bundle. The decision comes in mid-2026, after Nintendo cited the impact of global economic conditions on its operations.

The Switch 2 price increase

On September 1, 2026, the price of the Switch 2 base model will rise from $449 to $499. The increase was justified by several factors, including the global RAM shortage, import tariffs, and recent geopolitical situations such as the war in Iran. Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa said the company does not expect component prices to fall in the short term.

Nintendo had managed to avoid a Switch 2 price increase until now, but the continued rise in component and production costs forced the company to make this decision. The Switch 2, which launched in June 2025, has seen strong sales so far, with nearly 20 million units sold in its first year.

New bundle with popular games

At the same time as the price increase, Nintendo has introduced a new bundle offer. Starting in June 2026, customers can choose one of three popular games when buying the Switch 2: Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza, or Pokémon Pokopia. The bundle will be priced at $499, offering an attractive option for new buyers, especially ahead of the price increase.

Thanks to these bundle offers, customers can get more value from their purchase. Mario Kart World, for example, normally costs $79.99, meaning the bundle saves about $30 compared with buying separately.

Timeline

2025-06: The Nintendo Switch 2 launches with a standard price of $449.
2026-05-12: Nintendo unveils a new Switch 2 bundle offer, including Mario Kart World.
2026-05-14: Nintendo announces that the Switch 2 price will rise to $499, effective September 1.

Impact on sales and future plans

The price increase could affect the Switch 2's accessibility, as Furukawa noted. He said higher costs can be a barrier for potential customers, but also stressed the importance of a strong software lineup. Nintendo has a strong portfolio of titles, including the announced Star Fox remake and a new game in the Splatoon series due out this summer.

In addition, work is underway on a new Pokémon game, Wind and Waves, planned for 2027, and rumors are circulating about a remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. These development plans underline Nintendo's commitment to keeping interest in the Switch 2 high.

Against this backdrop, 2026 looks set to be a strategic year for Nintendo, with a mix of price increases and attractive game offers supporting Switch 2 sales.