TOKYO — Nintendo’s highly anticipated Switch 2 console has ignited a frenzy in Japan, with the company revealing that its pre-order lottery system garnered a staggering 2.2 million applications in just three days. The overwhelming response underscores the feverish excitement for the successor to the wildly popular Nintendo Switch, even as fans worldwide clamor for details about global availability.
The lottery system, introduced to manage limited initial stock and curb scalping, allowed Japanese customers to register for a chance to secure a pre-order slot between November 10 and 13. By the time applications closed, demand had far exceeded expectations, with nearly 1 in 50 people in Japan vying for a unit. For context, the original Switch sold 33 million units in Japan since 2017, making it the country’s third-best-selling console of all time.
“This level of interest is unprecedented, even for Nintendo,” said gaming industry analyst Risa Tanaka. “The Switch 2 is clearly seen as a must-have item, blending nostalgia for the original’s success with rumors of major hardware upgrades.”
Why a Lottery System?
Nintendo’s decision to use a lottery for pre-orders follows widespread criticism of bots and resellers dominating sales for high-demand tech products. The company has yet to confirm exact launch dates or pricing, but leaks suggest the Switch 2 will retail for around ¥45,000 ($300) and feature enhanced processing power, backward compatibility, and a larger OLED display.
While the lottery aims to ensure fairness, many applicants expressed frustration online. “I’ve entered three family members’ accounts, but I’m still worried,” said Tokyo-based gamer Hiroshi Yamamoto. “It feels like winning actual lottery tickets.”
Global Eyes on Nintendo’s Next Move
As Japan grapples with demand, international audiences are eagerly awaiting news. Nintendo’s U.S. branch recently teased a pre-order date announcement, hinting at a staggered global rollout. Meanwhile, the company’s official Twitter account posted a cryptic message earlier this week: “The next level of play is coming. Stay tuned.”
Retail analysts warn that supply chain challenges could lead to shortages well into 2025. “Nintendo learned from the Switch’s early scarcity, but 2.2 million applications in one market alone suggest they’ll struggle to meet demand,” said David Gibson of Astris Advisory.
What’s Next for Fans?
Japanese winners will be notified by November 20, with units expected to ship by late March 2024. For those who miss out, Nintendo plans to open general pre-orders in early December, though quantities remain unclear.
Outside Japan, the battle for pre-orders is likely to be equally intense. Retailers like GameStop and Amazon are already fielding waitlist requests, while eBay scalpers are listing “guaranteed” Switch 2 units at triple the expected price.
As the gaming world holds its breath, one thing is certain: Nintendo’s hybrid console revolution is far from over. Whether the Switch 2 can replicate its predecessor’s 132 million-unit legacy depends on how smoothly the company navigates its next challenge—delivering the hype.
古川です。みなさまのお手元に「Nintendo Switch 2」をお届けすべく、事前に多くの部材を調達し、生産を進めてきました。4月2日には「Nintendo Switch…
— 任天堂株式会社 (@Nintendo) April 23, 2025