Nintendo Increases Switch 1 Prices, Challenging Sales as Switch 2 Becomes Readily Available

Okay, let’s see if I can wrap my head around this whole Nintendo price hike situation. So, Nintendo just made the big announcement, and it’s kinda shaking things up in the gaming world. Now, I don’t get why they decided to bump up the prices for the original Switch consoles and a few accessories—Switch 2 is already here, and… surprise, it’s a hit. There’s a bit of a twist in the tale, too, with the Switch 1 and its pals getting a bit more expensive starting August 3, 2025. Seriously, why August 3rd? No clue.

So, I’m digging through info, and from what I gather, only the original Switch (you know, the good ol’ reliable one) and some accessories are seeing a price bump. The Switch 2 and its games are staying put, price-wise for now, anyway. Oh, but don’t get too comfy—rumor has it that prices might still shift around in the future. Yay, more unpredictability. Sarcasm intended.

Here’s the breakdown of what’ll cost you more: The original Switch jumps from $299.99 to $339.99. The OLED model? Up to $399.99. Honestly, it’s a bit like they sprinkled extra dollars over everything. And that quirky little Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo? Yes, even that got a price tag makeover—but just a tenner more. Joy-Con 2 controllers nudged a little upward, too.

Now, switching gears (pun intended), normally companies lower prices when a newer model’s out, right? Nope, not here. This has folks scratching heads, especially because Switch 2 is pretty much a rockstar—it’s predicted to outsell the original. But then there’s this whole tariff thing with, you guessed it, those good old economic conditions. I’m not even gonna pretend to fully understand how tariffs from President Trump’s days still hang around like uninvited guests. It’s a puzzle. Even Canada didn’t escape the price bump.

Let’s flip back a bit, okay? The hike makes the cheapest Switch option $230 now. Almost makes you wonder if you’re better off just saving up a tad more for the Switch 2, which is $449.99. Bigger screen, better performance—but, hold on, you’re gonna miss that OLED display. Decisions, decisions. Oh, and bonus: You get to use microSD Express cards for even more game storage on Switch 2. Just a heads up though: Finding these cards feels like a treasure hunt.

Anyway, the bright side—because we all need one, right?—is that getting your hands on Switch 2 isn’t a wild goose chase like trying to snag a PS5 was back in its early days. As long as you know where to look, consider yourself golden.

So, that’s my little rollercoaster ride through Nintendo’s new pricing landscape. What a time to be alive, huh? Keep an eye out for meandering updates and maybe hold on tight to your wallets.