Nintendo Switch 2 stock depletes quickly after launch

In the UK, the Nintendo Switch 2 was launched on June 5, 2025, creating a significant buzz among gamers eager to upgrade from the previous models. The console features an upgraded 7.9 inch LCD screen with 1080p resolution, offering improved gaming experiences compared to its predecessor. However, it lacks support for variable refresh rates when docked, which has been a disappointment for some users looking for enhanced gameplay while connected to their televisions. Upon its release, numerous retailers reported quickly dwindling stock levels, with many places selling out within days. Major stores like GameStop, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target struggled to keep the console in stock, with availability fluctuations occurring throughout the launch weekend. Only select retailers like EE, which provided it as part of a pay-monthly contract, and Costco — offering it to members — had limited stock available for immediate purchase. Specific bundles, including the popular Mario Kart World version, have also been quickly snapped up, with some stores no longer offering any stock. Despite the initial popularity of the Nintendo Switch 2, stocks at most retailers have become significantly limited. For example, while some members of the public managed to purchase the console at launch, many potential buyers found themselves disappointed when visiting stores only to discover that units were sold out immediately. The situation has led to a sense of urgency among gamers, who are now monitoring restock updates closely, hoping to snag a console as soon as it becomes available. The launch had also introduced several new games, including upgraded versions of popular titles such as Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, alongside big releases like Cyberpunk 2077 Ultimate Edition and Hogwarts Legacy. This diverse game lineup has further fueled interest in the console, making it a hot item on the market. However, the frustration of stock shortages post-launch highlights a persistent issue in the gaming industry: the difficulty in meeting public demand during a new product’s release, which could lead to disappointed customers and lost sales for retailers.