Nintendo's release of the Switch 2 comes at a pivotal time, marked by economic uncertainty and global trade tensions. The new console, a more powerful iteration of the beloved original, is set to hit the market with a $450 USD price tag and games like Mario Kart World priced at $80 USD. These factors have turned the Switch 2 into a focal point of discussion amid rising costs in the gaming industry.

To gauge global reactions to the Switch 2, I consulted with editors from IGN's international branches. The feedback has been mixed, reflecting a variety of concerns and praises across different regions.

Global Reception of the Switch 2

Feedback from IGN's global network reveals a diverse range of opinions on the Switch 2. While the hardware upgrades, including a 120hz refresh rate, HDR, and 4K output, have been well-received, the absence of an OLED screen has been a notable point of criticism.

Alessandro Digioia, editor-in-chief of IGN Italy, notes, "Our readers are predominantly dissatisfied with the Nintendo Switch 2. The main concerns revolve around the price, the lack of an OLED screen, the absence of a trophy/achievement system, and a modest launch lineup. While third-party announcements were welcomed, many expected more from Nintendo's first-party titles."

Echoing similar sentiments, Pedro Pestana from IGN Portugal adds, "I'm not that impressed with Switch 2, as it's essentially an enhanced version of the original without the novelty factor. However, the games will be the deciding factor, and Mario Kart World looks impressive."

In contrast, regions like Benelux and Turkey have shown more enthusiasm for the hardware improvements. Nick Nijiland from IGN Benelux reports, "Despite the price, the console has been well-received. It sold out within hours, and our Discord server saw a surge in new members when we announced pre-order availability."

Ersin Kilic from IGN Turkey shares, "Readers appreciate that Nintendo addressed criticisms from the original Switch. The improved screen quality, despite being LCD, was well-received. However, the lack of Hall Effect in Joy-Con 2 was a significant point of criticism due to concerns about Joy-Con drift."

Kamui Ye from IGN China provides a balanced view, stating, "The reveal event was met with disappointment due to the lackluster launch title lineup and regional pricing strategies. The absence of new titles from major franchises like Mario, Zelda, or Animal Crossing was a negative. However, core fans remain optimistic about Nintendo's long-term plans, prioritizing backward compatibility and hardware refinements like magnetic Joy-Cons."

Hardware Price and Tariff Concerns

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow

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The Switch 2 is set to launch at $450 USD in the United States, with pre-orders delayed due to ongoing tariff issues. This situation has led Nintendo to reconsider its rollout strategy ahead of the June 5 release date.

In Europe, where tariffs are less of a concern, pre-orders are already underway. Antonia Dressler from IGN Germany comments, "In Germany, tariffs aren't a worry, but the console's price is. Many compare it unfavorably to the PS5, yet pre-orders are still coming in."

The Switch 2's pricing positions it as a competitor to the PS5 and Xbox Series X, complicating consumer choices. Zaid Kriel from IGN Africa notes, "The price is now in the same bracket as the PS5 and Xbox Series X, no longer a cheaper alternative, which could be problematic, especially with Nintendo's increased game prices."

In Brazil, the tariff war exacerbates the situation. Matheus de Lucca from IGN Brazil explains, "The weak Real against the dollar means any price increase in the US will significantly impact Latin America, potentially limiting the Switch 2's accessibility."

Japan presents a unique scenario with a region-locked version at a lower price point. Daniel Robson from IGN Japan states, "Nintendo couldn't go over 50,000 yen due to the weak yen, but a region lock was implemented to prevent importation and stock hoarding. Despite the high price, it's more competitively priced than the PS5, and Japan remains a Nintendo stronghold."

Software Pricing: A Major Concern

Despite hardware and tariff issues, the most significant concern globally is the price of software. The $80 USD price for Mario Kart World has sparked widespread debate, with fears that this could set a precedent for even higher game prices.

Alessandro Digioia from IGN Italy highlights, "Game pricing is the biggest issue. Many feel Nintendo's new pricing structure is unjustifiable, especially with recent increases in the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S era. The €90 price for some first-party games and the €9.99 for Switch 2 Welcome Tour have caused considerable concern."

Antonia Dressler from IGN Germany adds, "People are upset, especially with the €90 price for Mario Kart World. Even the tutorial game costing money seems greedy."

In China, where an official release is not planned, gamers may turn to the gray market. Kamui Ye from IGN China notes, "Game prices in Hong Kong and Japan are lower than in Western markets, and most players find the official price acceptable. Despite the console's price increase, it's seen as more cost-effective than handheld PCs like the Steam Deck."

The Switch 2 is poised for success as an upgrade to a beloved console, but the high cost of games during economic hardship has dampened enthusiasm. With many unknowns, especially in the US due to tariffs, and potential stock shortages globally, the Switch 2's launch remains a complex narrative. Yet, the excitement generated by Nintendo worldwide is undeniable, albeit with significant caveats.