Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders Sold Out Nationwide — When and Where to Buy Next
Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders Sold Out Nationwide — When and Where to Buy Next
It’s official—preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2 are gone in a flash. If you blinked, you probably missed your chance. With fans scrambling to secure the next-gen console, retailers across the country have already sold out of their first wave of stock. So, what now?
Here’s a breakdown of what’s going on, where things stand, and what you can do if you didn’t snag a preorder in time.
The Demand Was Inevitable—but Still Shocking
Nintendo has a reputation for building hype, and the Switch 2 is no exception. After months of speculation and leaks, the company finally dropped details about the highly anticipated console—and fans didn’t waste a second.
Major retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, GameStop, Target, and Walmart opened up preorders within hours of the announcement. And within minutes? Listings showed “out of stock” across the board.
Even smaller gaming-focused outlets saw their inventory vanish in record time. If you were hoping for a casual scroll-and-click preorder experience, you were likely out of luck.
What’s Driving the Hype?
A few key features have fans more excited than ever:
- Upgraded performance: Word on the street is that the Switch 2 will feature a more powerful processor and improved graphics. Think crisper visuals and smoother gameplay.
- Backward compatibility: Nintendo hasn’t confirmed it yet, but many insiders believe the Switch 2 will support existing Switch games.
- New display tech: Rumors suggest a larger OLED screen with improved resolution. Perfect for handheld gamers.
- Exclusive launch titles: Reports hint at a new Zelda installment and a Mario Kart sequel dropping alongside the console.
Add in a loyal fanbase and a post-pandemic hunger for new entertainment, and you’ve got a perfect storm.
Where Preorders Stand Right Now
As of today, April 24, 2025, every major online and brick-and-mortar retailer in the U.S. is showing sold-out listings. Some are allowing customers to sign up for notifications when the next batch becomes available, so if you missed out, it’s worth getting on those waitlists.
Scalpers have, unfortunately, jumped into the mix. Resale sites like eBay already have listings popping up, often for double or even triple the retail price. It’s frustrating, but not surprising.
What to Do If You Missed Out
Don’t panic—there’s still a shot. Here’s how to stay in the loop and improve your chances:
1. Sign Up for Stock Alerts
Sites like NowInStock.net, Stock Informer, and even Reddit’s r/NintendoSwitch are great for real-time updates. Most retailers also let you sign up for email alerts.
2. Follow Retailers on Social Media
Companies like Best Buy and Target often announce restocks via Twitter or Instagram before updating their websites.
3. Check in Person
Some stores receive units not listed online. A quick phone call to your local GameStop or Walmart might just pay off.
4. Wait for Launch Day
Historically, Nintendo consoles get restocked at launch. Showing up early to a retail location on release day might give you a fighting chance.
When Will More Preorders Open?
Nintendo hasn’t released an official timeline for additional waves, but industry analysts expect another batch within the next few weeks. Historically, Nintendo tends to release consoles in waves leading up to the launch date to maintain momentum—and keep scalping under control.
Be Ready for the Long Game
If you didn’t grab a Switch 2 preorder, you’re not alone. This is one of the most hyped console launches in recent memory, and with good reason. But don’t give up yet—more stock will roll out, and patience will pay off.
In the meantime, make sure your Nintendo account is set up, follow all the alerts you can, and resist overpaying on the resale market unless you’re absolutely desperate.
The Switch 2 is coming. Just maybe not today.
