The Nintendo Switch 2 launched with incredible demand, quickly becoming the fastest-selling Nintendo hardware in the United States and achieving approximately 3.5 million global sales in just its first four days. This immense popularity means that securing Nintendo’s new console remains incredibly challenging for many hopeful buyers.
Veterans of past console launches like the PS5 and Xbox Series X will find the current situation frustratingly familiar. Switch 2 restocks appear intermittently at major retailers but are often snapped up within minutes. However, persistence is key, and there’s a significant opportunity on the horizon for US shoppers.
Confirmed Walmart Switch 2 Restock
One of the most reliable sources for online Switch 2 inventory, Walmart, has confirmed a major restock event.
Date: Wednesday, June 25
Early Access: 9 pm ET / 6 pm PT for paid Walmart+ members
General Access: 10 pm ET / 7 pm PT for all other customers (stock unlikely to last)
Walmart requires a paid Walmart+ membership for the early access window. This strategy acts as a ‘paywall’ designed to deter bots and scalpers, potentially giving genuine buyers a better chance. Reports indicate both the standalone console ($449) and the Mario Kart World bundle ($499) are expected to be available during this drop.
US Retailer Stock Status
Beyond the confirmed Walmart event, US retailers have seen limited online stock. While online drops happen, they are typically brief. Checking physical store locations might offer a chance, although stock is very low in most areas.
Amazon: Stock status remains puzzling. A listing for the Mario Kart World bundle briefly appeared then vanished. Amazon has cleared problematic scalper listings and is now listing first-party Switch 2 games, suggesting direct sales may happen eventually, possibly tied to Prime Day (July 8).
Best Buy: Sold out online since a June 11 restock. Check local stores for potential limited stock.
Target: Had a brief online drop on launch day (June 6) but sold out fast. Currently sold out online, check local stores with low expectations.
GameStop: Primarily focused on in-store restocks recently (like one reported June 16). Check local branches directly. Sold out online.
My Nintendo Store: Requires an invitation to purchase. Priority is given to Nintendo Switch Online members with a paid membership of 12+ months and 50+ gameplay hours as of April 2.
Costco: May offer bundles requiring membership. Check online listing.
Other Retailers: Keep an eye on Newegg, Sam’s Club, Antonline, BJs, Dell, and Verizon. Most show as sold out or coming soon online.
UK Retailer Stock Status
The situation has been notably better for shoppers in the United Kingdom. While availability isn’t constant, restocks have been more frequent and tend to last longer than in the US, often for hours or even days.
Argos: Has seen recent stock of both standalone and bundle options, offering potential same-day collection.
Amazon UK: Has had stock appear intermittently for both console and bundle, though delivery times can vary.
Currys: Has offered standalone consoles, bundles, and custom packages, but stock can sell out quickly.
Very: Has also listed console and bundle options.
ShopTo: Offers a “back order” system, allowing you to reserve a console for fulfillment from future shipments.
Other UK Retailers: Check Nintendo UK (direct purchases for members), Smyths Toys, Game, John Lewis, EE Store (may require being a customer), and The Game Collection for availability.
Avoid Scalpers: Buy at Retail Price
The high demand has unfortunately led to scalpers selling the Switch 2 on secondary markets like eBay for significantly inflated prices, often $250 or more above the official $449 ($449.99 / £395.99) retail price or $499 ($499.99 / £429.99) for the Mario Kart World bundle. While frustrating, resist paying these exorbitant prices. Official restocks do happen, and following reliable trackers is the best way to secure a console at standard cost.
Essential Accessories and Exciting Games
If you manage to secure a console, consider these key additions:
Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller: Highly recommended for docked play ($84.99). Features improved ergonomics, a headphone jack, a new ‘C’ button, and customizable back buttons.
MicroSD Express Card: Crucial for expanding storage. The Switch 2 uses the new microSD Express format, not standard microSD cards. A 256GB card is often a good value ($59).
Switch 2 Camera: Enables the new GameChat feature ($54.99).
The Switch 2 launches with a solid library, blending new exclusives and enhanced favorites:
Mario Kart World: A major launch title ($79.99).
Donkey Kong Bananza: An anticipated new exclusive launching July 17 ($69.99).
Enhanced Titles: Play optimized versions of games like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Breath of the Wild with improved visuals and performance. Some older games, like Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, also see performance boosts.
Other launch/near-launch titles include Cyberpunk 277 Ultimate Edition, Street Fighter 6 1-2 Fighters Edition, and an enhanced Kirby and the Forgotten Land.
Latest Updates:
June 22, 2025 at 2:48 PM: Walmart confirms the June 25 restock timing and requirement for paid Walmart+ members for early access (9 pm ET). Standalone Switch 2 and Mario Kart World bundle expected.
June 21, 2025 at 3:02 PM: US remains mostly dry outside of Walmart’s confirmed upcoming drop. Limited in-store stock might exist at select locations like Staples.
June 20, 2025 at 10:14 PM: Argos UK continues to have stock of the Switch 2 and Mario Kart bundle, while Amazon UK sold out earlier in the day. UK stock generally more available and lasting longer.
June 19, 2025 at 3:52 PM: BJs briefly had Switch 2 stock (limit 1 per member) but quickly sold out. Highlights that smaller retailers can have surprise drops.
June 18, 2025 at 10:43 AM: Amazon UK restocked the standalone Switch 2 console. This follows a pattern of more frequent UK drops compared to the US market.
June 17, 2025 at 9:54 PM: Caution advised against using third-party flash cartridges like the MIG Switch, as reports suggest Nintendo is banning users from online services for doing so. Stick to official methods.
June 17, 2025 at 8:07 PM: GAME UK confirmed stock of the console and Mario Kart bundle. UK continues to see scattered restocks.
News Update: Criticism has emerged regarding the $10 “Switch 2 Welcome Tour” mini-game collection, as achieving 100% completion requires purchasing specific accessories (like a Pro Controller or Charging Grip) and potentially a 4K TV to experience advertised features.
News Update: GameStop is reportedly replacing Nintendo Switch 2 consoles damaged during shipping, sourcing replacements from local store stock.
Keep following this tracker for the latest information as the hunt for the Nintendo Switch 2 continues.
