Gamers, the wait is almost over! Best Buy has officially announced that pre-orders for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 will go live at 12:00 AM Eastern Time on April 24. As one of the biggest names in retail gaming, Best Buy is gearing up for what’s expected to be a massive wave of early buyers.
This pre-order launch aligns with other major retailers like Target and Walmart, which are also opening up orders on the same day. GameStop will lag slightly behind, with its pre-orders starting at 11:00 AM ET, both online and in-store when locations open.
⏰ When and Where to Pre-Order
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Date: April 24, 2025
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Time: 12:00 AM ET
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Where: Best Buy’s Nintendo section
Best Buy has warned that stock will be limited, so eager fans should be ready right at midnight to avoid missing out.
💡 Alternate Options if Best Buy Runs Out
If Best Buy’s pre-orders sell out quickly, don’t panic. Target and Walmart are launching pre-orders at the same time, and may still have units available. GameStop, opening later in the morning, could also be a solid backup for those who miss out during the midnight rush.
🎮 Nintendo Switch 2: What to Expect
While Nintendo is still keeping most specs under wraps, the Nintendo Switch 2 is rumored to feature:
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Next-gen graphics and processing
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Improved battery life
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New Joy-Con design
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Backward compatibility with Switch 1 games
Although pricing for the console has remained consistent with its initial announcement, some accessories have seen a price increase—so budget accordingly if you’re planning to go all-in.
📦 Launch Supply and Global Concerns
Nintendo has assured fans it’s taking steps to avoid the supply chain issues that plagued the original Switch launch. However, with concerns over global economic instability and possible US tariffs, some gamers are cautiously watching how this release unfolds.
🕹️ Final Thoughts
With limited stock and high demand, being prepared for pre-orders is crucial. Whether you’re team Best Buy, Walmart, Target, or GameStop, April 24 is the day to set your alarms and lock in your Nintendo Switch 2 before it’s too late.