Gamers eager to snag the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 on Amazon in the US have noticed a peculiar absence: the console itself isn’t available for preorder. Interestingly, a wide array of games and accessories designed for the new platform can still be found on the popular online marketplace. This isn’t a sudden development; in fact, the trend has been brewing for over a year. Currently, Amazon’s direct offerings no longer include any first-party Nintendo consoles, games, or accessories, although third-party products compatible with the Switch 2 are still listed.
A Tale of Two Markets
The situation in the US starkly contrasts with Amazon UK, where Nintendo products continue to be readily available. This suggests the issue is specific to the American market.
Unraveling the Mystery
The roots of this shift appear to stretch back to 2024. Initially, Amazon listed Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door but then failed to restock it. Following this, numerous significant Nintendo releases, such as Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD, Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, and Super Mario Party Jamboree, also vanished from Amazon’s digital shelves.
The impact wasn’t limited to just games. Hardware, including the Hyrule Edition Switch Lite and various themed console bundles, also disappeared and never returned. Furthermore, Amazon ceased offering Nintendo eShop gift cards, Switch Online subscriptions, and a variety of first-party accessories. While Walmart experienced a similar disruption for a brief period, it eventually resumed its normal listings, a path Amazon has yet to follow. For those seeking a smoother preorder experience, resources like the Switch 2 Preorders overview on My Lead Games might offer valuable insights.
Speculation on the Disconnect
Neither Nintendo nor Amazon has publicly commented on the apparent breakdown in their retail relationship. However, a leading theory points towards aggressive discounting practices as the potential cause. Both Amazon and Walmart had a history of offering Nintendo games at regular discounts, sometimes well in advance of official promotions. While Walmart seems to have repaired its relationship with Nintendo, Amazon’s Nintendo offerings now primarily come from third-party sellers or alternative platforms like Woot, often featuring launch-day discounts.
With the Nintendo Switch 2’s anticipated launch on June 5th, the gaming community is watching closely to see if Amazon’s approach to Nintendo products will evolve.
Silver Lining: Third-Party Treasures
Despite the absence of first-party Nintendo consoles and software, Amazon remains a destination for officially licensed Nintendo products created by other companies. This includes items like Hori’s Piranha Plant Switch 2 Camera, a variety of plush toys, and Lego Super Mario sets. These products are developed in collaboration with Nintendo but are not directly released by them.
Therefore, while the hunt for the core Switch 2 console itself may lead gamers to other retailers, Amazon still presents a viable option for securing a range of accessories and merchandise for the highly anticipated new system.