The highly anticipated Nintendo switch 2 console hit the market on June 5th, priced at $449.99 for the base model and $499.99 bundled with the new “Mario Kart World” game. However, securing this next-gen hybrid console has proven incredibly challenging for many hopeful buyers. Intense demand has consistently outstripped limited supply across all major retailers since launch, making online inventory frustratingly scarce.
This past Tuesday, June 25th, brought new—albeit brief—opportunities for consumers desperate to get their hands on the system. Both Walmart and online retailer Antonline confirmed restocks, generating buzz among stock trackers and gamers alike. While these specific opportunities have now passed, understanding what happened and knowing the best strategies for future availability is crucial for anyone still trying to buy a Nintendo Switch 2.
The Nintendo Switch 2 Stock Situation Explained
Since its debut, the Nintendo Switch 2 has been one of the most sought-after tech items. Preorders back in April reportedly crashed retailer websites, signaling the immense consumer interest. Factors like production challenges and logistics have contributed to a persistent scarcity, especially online in the US market. Most retailers quickly sold out after launch and have seen only sporadic, short-lived restocks since. This landscape means finding a console often requires vigilance, persistence, and knowing exactly where and when to look. While official games and accessories like the Pro Controller or Joy-Con 2 are generally easier to locate, the console itself remains elusive at its standard retail price.
June 25 Restock Recap: What Happened at Walmart and Antonline
Hope surged on Tuesday, June 25th, as two prominent retailers announced fresh inventory.
Walmart’s June 25 Restock Event
Walmart confirmed a significant online restock event for the evening of June 25th. General access for all customers was scheduled to begin at 7 PM PT / 10 PM ET. However, Walmart offered a key advantage to its Walmart+ members: one-hour early access starting at 6 PM PT / 9 PM ET. This early window was intended to increase members’ chances of securing either the base console or the Mario Kart World bundle before inventory potentially opened to the wider public. Reports indicated that stock for members sold out extremely rapidly, with availability showing as nearly entirely claimed within minutes of the early access window opening. By the time general access was set to begin, it was highly unlikely any consoles remained available. As of today, Walmart’s online store lists the console as out of stock, with third-party sellers often listing it at significantly inflated prices, which should be avoided.
Antonline’s June 25 Stock Drop
Earlier on June 25th, online retailer Antonline also released Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. Antonline frequently bundles consoles with games and accessories. Their offerings on June 25th included several themed bundles, primarily centered around “The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom” and “Breath of the Wild” Switch 2 Editions. These bundles were priced higher than the standalone console, ranging from $620 to $700 depending on contents like additional games (Mario Kart World, Zelda titles), a Samsung microSD Express card, Amiibo figures, or a Switch 2 Pro Controller. While potentially expensive, these bundles can sometimes remain available slightly longer than base consoles due to their higher price points and specific contents. However, like the Walmart drop, Antonline’s June 25th stock release also quickly sold out, and the retailer currently lists the console as unavailable.
Where to Check Now for Nintendo Switch 2 Stock
With the June 25th opportunities concluded and sold out, the hunt continues. Here are the key places to monitor for future Nintendo Switch 2 restocks:
Walmart
Although the June 25th stock is gone, Walmart remains a crucial retailer to watch. Future restocks are likely, and maintaining a Walmart+ membership could provide early access again. Regularly checking their product page is essential, but be wary of third-party listings at inflated prices.
Antonline
Keep an eye on Antonline’s dedicated Switch 2 page. While their bundles are pricier, they represent another potential avenue to acquire the console. Availability can pop up without much prior warning.
Other Major Retailers
Major electronics and gaming retailers are also points of potential availability.
Best Buy: Historically, Best Buy has had in-store stock and occasional online restocks requiring in-store pickup. Some reports indicate potential in-store availability on Tuesday, July 1st, at select locations. Monitoring their online listing and considering physical visits are strategies.
Target: Similar to Best Buy, Target has had in-store availability and limited online drops. Checking their website for local stock for pickup or delivery, and visiting physical stores, can sometimes yield results.
GameStop: GameStop often prioritizes in-store availability for high-demand items like the Switch 2. Checking with local stores directly may prove more fruitful than relying on their online listings, which often direct users to a store locator.
Amazon US: Unlike other major retailers, Amazon US has not been an official seller of the Nintendo Switch 2 console itself since launch. Any listings are typically from third-party resellers at exorbitant markups. Avoid these listings; focus on official channels.
Membership Retailers (Costco, Sam’s Club): These stores occasionally receive stock, often in bundles exclusive to members. If you’re a member, check their online stores and warehouses periodically.
Official Nintendo Store (My Nintendo Store)
Nintendo offers the Switch 2 directly through its online store via an invitation system. This system is typically open to qualifying Nintendo Switch Online members who have met specific criteria (e.g., a certain duration of paid membership and logged gameplay hours on the original Switch). Eligible members must register interest and wait for an email invitation to purchase. Receiving an invite can take time, but it’s a guaranteed way to buy at MSRP if you qualify and are patient.
Why Bundles Might Be Your Best Bet
Given the intense competition for the standalone Nintendo Switch 2 console, considering retailer-created bundles can sometimes increase your chances. While often more expensive upfront, including extra accessories or games can deter some buyers, particularly scalpers focused solely on the base console’s resale value. Retailers like Antonline specialize in these bundles. The official “Mario Kart World” bundle ($499.99) which includes a digital copy of the launch title at a slight discount compared to buying the console and game separately, is another bundle type to prioritize if available.
Essential Nintendo Switch 2 Accessories and Games
While the console itself is hard to find, the ecosystem of Switch 2 games and accessories is generally well-stocked. These items launched alongside the console on June 5th and are available at most major retailers.
Must-Have Accessories: Consider the official Switch 2 Pro Controller ($84-$85) for a traditional gaming experience, Joy-Con 2 Controllers (2-Pack) ($94-$95) for multiplayer, the new Switch 2 Camera ($54-$55) for compatible games and social features, and a Samsung 256GB microSD Express Card ($59-$60) to significantly expand storage for digital games. Various official and third-party carrying cases are also readily available to protect your system.
Key Games: The Switch 2 launched with major titles like Mario Kart World ($79-$80), updated “Switch 2 Editions” of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom ($79) and Breath of the Wild ($69), and multiplatform hits like Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition ($70) which impressively fits the full game and expansion on a single cartridge. Upcoming titles like Donkey Kong Bananza ($69) on July 17th are also available for pre-order. Note that while Nintendo’s physical games contain the full data on the cartridge, many third-party “physical” releases come as “Game-Key Cards” requiring a download from the eShop.
Avoiding Scalpers: Don’t Overpay!
One of the biggest frustrations for buyers is seeing the Nintendo Switch 2 listed by third-party sellers on marketplaces like Walmart or Newegg at wildly inflated prices, sometimes hundreds of dollars above MSRP. These are scalpers capitalizing on demand. It is strongly advised not to purchase from these sellers. Paying exorbitant prices encourages scalping and makes the stock situation worse for everyone else. Be patient and focus your efforts on official retailers selling at standard pricing.
Expert Tips for Finding a Nintendo Switch 2
Be Persistent and Vigilant: Stock appears and disappears quickly. Check retailer websites frequently throughout the day.
Set Up Stock Alerts: Many retailer websites or third-party tracking services offer email or app notifications when stock goes live. Sign up for these.
Leverage Memberships: Consider retailer memberships like Walmart+ for potential early access to future online drops. Check the official Nintendo site for their invite system if you’re a long-time Switch Online member.
Check Physical Stores: Don’t rely solely on online listings. Stock can sometimes be available in physical Best Buy, Target, or GameStop locations even when online shows nothing. Call ahead or visit in person.
Consider Bundles: If your primary goal is just getting the console, be open to purchasing bundles, which might be less targeted by scalpers and standard buyers.
- Avoid Scalpers: Absolutely do not pay inflated prices to third-party sellers. Wait for official restocks.
- www.gamespot.com
- mashable.com
- www.engadget.com
- www.techradar.com
- www.gamesradar.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the significance of the June 25th Nintendo Switch 2 restocks?
The June 25th restocks at Walmart and Antonline were significant because they were confirmed opportunities to buy the highly sought-after Nintendo Switch 2 console amidst severe scarcity. For Walmart, it was a notable online event, particularly with early access for Walmart+ members. Antonline offered specific console bundles. However, both restocks sold out very quickly, highlighting the ongoing high demand and the fleeting nature of availability.
Which retailers should I monitor regularly for Nintendo Switch 2 console availability now?
With the June 25th restocks passed, you should regularly monitor the official product pages for the Nintendo Switch 2 at major retailers like Walmart, Best Buy, Target, GameStop, and Antonline. Also, check membership clubs like Costco or Sam’s Club if you are a member. Don’t forget the official My Nintendo Store’s invite system for eligible Switch Online members. Checking physical store locations can also be fruitful.
Is it worth buying a Nintendo Switch 2 bundle, or should I wait for the standalone console?
Deciding between a bundle and the standalone console depends on your budget and urgency. Bundles, like those offered by Antonline, are pricier ($620-$700 range) but might be easier to secure as they’re less targeted by basic buyers and scalpers. If you planned to buy the included games (like Mario Kart World or Zelda titles) or accessories anyway, a bundle might offer convenience or slight savings over buying everything separately. If you only want the console at its $449.99 MSRP and have patience, waiting for a standalone restock is an option, but stock is much harder to find this way.
Conclusion
Securing a Nintendo Switch 2 console remains a challenging task due to overwhelming demand following its June 5th launch. While major restocks like the ones seen on June 25th at Walmart and Antonline provide opportunities, they sell out in minutes. The key to finding a console now is continuous monitoring of retailer websites, leveraging any available membership advantages like Walmart+, being open to purchasing bundles, checking physical store locations, and patiently waiting for official restocks while strictly avoiding overpriced third-party scalpers. Stay vigilant, set up alerts, and good luck with your hunt!
