Nintendo’s success over four decades can be attributed to its commitment to affordability, evident in the prices of its consoles and games. The original Nintendo Switch launched at $299, a bargain compared to rivals Xbox Series X ($599) and PlayStation 5 Pro ($699). The Wii, released in 2006, was priced at $249, including a bundled game.
However, the latest console, Switch 2, costs $449, with its marquee title, Mario Kart, priced at an unprecedented $80. While the Switch 2 boasts impressive design features, such as a gorgeous LCD screen and robust internal storage, its price tag raises concerns about value for money.
Industry analysts believe Nintendo is building in a buffer against potential trade barriers by increasing prices due to economic uncertainty. The company’s neutral stance on tariffs has sparked speculation that the Switch 2 might get more expensive if tariffs are reintroduced.
The trend of luxury console prices mirrors the changing gaming landscape, where video game development costs have increased significantly. Microsoft and Sony have also raised their prices in recent times. The industry is now shifting from traditional price decreases to adjusting based on market conditions.
As the gaming community reacts to the Switch 2’s high price, nostalgia and appreciation for simple joys like playing Mario Kart together with friends are being replaced by a premium experience that comes with a hefty cost.
Source: https://slate.com/culture/2025/06/switch-2-nintendo-price-mario-kart-world-trump-tariffs.html