Nintendo Cracks Down on Switch 2 Scalpers

Nintendo has announced proactive measures to prevent Switch 2 launch shortages and counteract scalpers, stating: "We are making preparations."

Planning Ahead

Following the release of its latest financial report, Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa addressed how the company will avoid the supply issues that plagued the original Switch's 2017 launch.

"We will implement all possible measures based on our accumulated experience regarding scalpers," Furukawa told Nikkei (translated by VGC). "We are making preparations."

Learning from Past Challenges

What might these preparations entail? Primarily, substantial production volume. Nintendo previously emphasized that manufacturing enough Switch 2 units remains their primary strategy against resellers.

The original Switch experienced severe supply constraints at launch, enabling scalpers to sell consoles at exorbitant prices. However, Furukawa clarified in July 2024 that the Switch successor launch will differ.

"To combat resales, we believe adequate production to satisfy demand remains crucial - our stance hasn't changed since last year," Furukawa explained. "We're also evaluating additional region-specific measures within legal boundaries."

Overcoming Component Shortages

"While semiconductor shortages previously limited Switch production, these issues have now been resolved," he continued. "We don't anticipate significant component shortages affecting the successor model's manufacturing."

Upcoming Reveals

Nintendo will host a Switch 2 Direct presentation on April 2, followed by global hands-on events for the new console.

Current Switch Outlook

Addressing declining Switch sales on February 4, 2025, Furukawa denied significant impact from consumers waiting for the Switch 2.

"Purchase hesitation hasn't substantially affected sales," he maintained. "It remains a strong eighth year, though we haven't met all targets."

Ongoing Support

Furukawa confirmed Nintendo will continue supporting the current Switch as long as demand persists. Both Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond remain scheduled for 2025 releases on the original Switch hardware.