- By Prateek Levi
- Mon, 04 Aug 2025 12:53 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Nintendo has quietly raised prices across several of its older products in the US, including the original Switch console, some Amiibo figurines, the Alarm Clock, and a range of accessories for both the Switch and the newer Switch 2. The changes, which took effect August 3, were attributed to “market conditions,” according to a notice on the company’s website.
Retailers have already begun reflecting the updated pricing. The standard Nintendo Switch, previously $299, now lists for $339. Meanwhile, the Switch OLED has climbed from $349 to $399. Though Nintendo hasn’t officially listed the new prices, these adjustments are already visible across online shopfronts.
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Part of the reason behind the hike may lie in ongoing tariff issues. Nintendo, like many electronics companies, manufactures most of its products in China and Vietnam. Importing these goods into the US has become costlier over time, particularly due to tariffs introduced under the Trump administration.
Switch 2 Prices Remain the Same—For Now
Interestingly, while prices on the older consoles and their accessories have gone up, Nintendo is leaving the Switch 2 untouched—at least for now. Given that the original Switch is nearing the end of its life and demand has softened at retail, the price increase is unlikely to impact sales dramatically.
As for the Switch 2, which launched just two months ago, the company appears cautious about raising its already premium $450 price tag. That system and its games are already priced higher than previous generations. A further hike at this early stage, while it’s still in limited supply, could risk hurting momentum.
“However, please note that price adjustments may be necessary in the future,” Nintendo warned in its statement.
The choice to hold the line on Switch 2 pricing seems to be strategic. While the system is off to a strong start, pushing prices higher too soon could undermine its long-term performance in a fiercely competitive market.
Switch 2 Off to a Strong Start
Earlier on the same day as the pricing update, Nintendo shared its latest earnings report. The company revealed that it has sold 5.82 million Switch 2 units since the console launched on June 5. Despite this strong showing, Nintendo has kept its full-year forecast at 15 million units. But some industry analysts believe the company is being conservative, given how quickly the Switch 2 is moving.
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Meanwhile, pricing pressure is affecting the broader gaming industry. On Friday, the Trump administration introduced a new batch of “reciprocal” tariffs, with rates as high as 41 percent on some imports. This comes on top of similar trade measures that have already prompted Sony and Microsoft to raise prices on their PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S consoles in various global markets.
While Nintendo’s latest move may be seen as a reaction to larger market shifts, its calculated restraint with the Switch 2 signals an effort to balance profitability with sustained growth—at least for now.