Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders surge ahead of June release

In early 2025, Nintendo announced the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, set to be officially launched in the UK on 5 June. The announcement revealed a host of impressive new features including a 7.9-inch LCD display, 256GB of internal storage, and support for 4K resolution when docked. Gamers can also expect enhancements such as faster microSD storage, improved audio, and upgraded graphics capable of 120 frames per second in handheld mode. The new console incorporates Joy-Con 2 controllers that can be magnetically attached and introduces built-in voice chat and mouse-like controls, elevating the gaming experience significantly. Furthermore, a range of games has been announced for the console, including both major first-party titles and renowned third-party hits, ensuring a diverse gaming library from the start. However, the pricing strategy has attracted criticism, especially regarding the high cost of Mario Kart World, which some consumers feel was unjustified. To exacerbate matters, Nintendo's decision to charge for a short tech demo-style game, Welcome Tour, which is not included free with the console purchase, has also come under fire during live broadcasts. Currently, pre-orders are still available at John Lewis & Partners, while Amazon has switched to a selective invite-only basis due to overwhelming demand. Some accessories have already made their way to retailers, albeit others remain unavailable, suggesting that gamers may face a wait for a complete product line featuring the Switch 2. As the release date approaches, the anticipation surrounding the console continues to build, along with discussions on its pricing and value.