The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025, and it's expected to be in high demand right from the start. To ensure that genuine Switch fans get their hands on the new console, Nintendo is implementing a strategic pre-order system on the My Nintendo Store. Here's how it works:

Nintendo Account holders can register their interest in pre-ordering a Nintendo Switch 2 system along with "select accessories" directly from the Nintendo Store. Once registered, you'll receive an invitation email when it's your turn to pre-order, but this invitation is only valid for 72 hours. There's a catch though: you need to have been an active player on your original Switch and a member of Nintendo Switch Online.

According to the site's fine print, "Invitation emails will be prioritized on a first-come, first-served basis to registrants who have purchased a Nintendo Switch Online membership with a minimum of 12 months of paid membership and a minimum of 50 total gameplay hours, as of April 2, 2025." This means that dedicated Switch users will have the first shot at securing their new console.

Nintendo also emphasizes that these invitations are "non-transferable" and will be sent to the email linked to the Nintendo Account that expressed interest. Additionally, there's a one-per-account limit for the system and each accessory during the invitation period. You can express interest in either a base Nintendo Switch 2 system or a bundle that includes Mario Kart World.

Once you place your order, it will be shipped after purchase, with an approximate shipping date provided at the time of ordering. It's important to note that "release-day delivery is not guaranteed due to processing and shipment times," as stated by Nintendo.

While Nintendo hasn't explicitly mentioned it, these measures seem designed to ensure that the people buying a Switch 2 through this process are genuine fans looking to enjoy the console, rather than scalpers aiming to resell it at a profit.

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow

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Scalping has been a significant issue with high-demand products, as seen with the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and the Pokémon Trading Card Game. Valve managed to mitigate this problem with the Steam Deck by implementing a queue system that linked purchases to Steam accounts and checked the account's creation date. Nintendo seems to be adopting a similar strategy with the My Nintendo Store process to prioritize genuine fans.

While other avenues for purchasing the Switch 2 will be available, this pre-order system offers a structured way for long-time Switch 1 owners to secure their new console without the frenzy typically associated with launch day pre-orders.