The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, set for release on June 5, has already generated massive buzz, receiving approximately 2.2 million lottery applications in Japan alone. Nintendo made the announcement via its official X (formerly Twitter) account on April 23, emphasizing that demand far exceeded expectations.

Priced at ¥49,980, the Nintendo Switch 2 began accepting applications for its first round of lottery sales earlier this month through the My Nintendo Store. Although the first entry period has closed, lottery results are scheduled to be revealed on April 24.

Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa addressed the public, stating:

“We have been actively sourcing components and ramping up production in preparation for the release of the Nintendo Switch 2. However, the number of applications—over 2.2 million—has far surpassed our initial projections.”

Despite these preparations, the available stock for the June 5 launch cannot accommodate the overwhelming demand. Nintendo expressed regret that “a significant number of customers will unfortunately not be selected in the first lottery.”

To reduce the burden on users, Nintendo announced that those who are not selected in the first round will automatically be entered into the second lottery. However, even with additional units in the second round, the company admitted that “it will still not be possible to fulfill all applications.”

Nintendo further stated:

“We deeply apologize for not being able to meet the expectations despite our prior preparations. In response, we are reinforcing our production capabilities to better meet future demand.”

In addition to the My Nintendo Store, major retailers and online shops across Japan are expected to start accepting pre-orders or holding additional lotteries from April 24 onward. Nintendo also plans to continue sales through its official store even after the official launch.

The Nintendo Switch 2, successor to the original 2017 Switch, features a larger screen and doubles the pixel count. It supports both dedicated Switch 2 titles and existing Switch software.

A key feature is the new “Game Chat” function, allowing players to interact in real-time as if they were in the same room. The “Nintendo Switch 2 Camera,” launching alongside the console, connects directly to the system and enables easy video chat, enhancing online co-op and casual gameplay with friends and family.

Source : ORICON NEWS