Everything to Know About Nintendo Switch Pre Orders in 2025

First Batch of Invitations Resumes in April

After a sudden delay in early April, the first batch of invitations for Nintendo Switch pre orders is finally rolling out again. Nintendo has confirmed a small update to its invitation system, prioritizing Nintendo Account holders with past purchases from the official My Nintendo Store and the Nintendo eShop.

This adjustment follows a tariff-related disruption, affecting US and Canadian retailers. Nintendo emphasized that additional batches of invitation emails will follow, offering more gamers a chance to secure the new Nintendo Switch ahead of its release date later this year.

Why Are Nintendo Switch Pre Orders Delayed?

The Nintendo Switch 2 pre orders were delayed due to a 14.5% tariff hike on electronics manufactured in China. This policy, driven by President Trump, disrupted production lines and raised costs. Nintendo responded by updating its invitation system and exploring alternate manufacturing locations outside China to ease supply pressure.

Tariffs Impact Switch Supply Chain

Due to the newly enforced 14.5% tariff on Chinese-made electronics, Nintendo Switch systems—manufactured primarily in China—now face increased costs. This move, initiated under President Donald Trump’s trade policy shift, could raise prices for US and Canadian consumers.

One Nintendo supplier warned of serious implications, as production costs climb and frame rates-dependent hardware is delayed. Nintendo may pivot to Vietnam or other countries to avoid further disruption.

Invitation Email Eligibility Explained

Nintendo’s pre order model now favors users who’ve logged significant total gameplay hours, used Nintendo gold points, and shopped via the My Nintendo Store or Nintendo eShop. Eligible users will get an invitation email with checkout access, where they must confirm their payment method—such as a credit card or time payment option—within 48 hours.

Gamers should check their email inboxes, especially if they've purchased top Nintendo Switch games like Mario Kart, used mouse controls, or bought accessories like controllers or MicroSD Express Cards.

Retailers and What Comes Next

While Amazon, Best Buy, and GameStop are expected to stock the Mario Kart World Bundle, initial pre-orders remain exclusive to the official My Nintendo Store. Nintendo hinted that major retailers may join in June after Nintendo Direct announcements finalize the game’s release date.

In the meantime, Nintendo fans should take early leaks with a grain of salt, and follow verified news on the internet and Nintendo channels.

The Race Is On for Gamers

With hype surrounding Mario, Mario Kart World, and anticipated new titles, competition is fierce. Nintendo is rewarding loyalty and engagement, so active gamers with verified Nintendo accounts, prior purchases, and online membership stand the best chance of landing a console.

Stay alert—your invitation email could drop at any time.