Nintendo Unveils Switch 2 Amid Tariff Concerns and Soaring Demand

Nintendo offered fans an early hands-on experience with its new Switch 2 console at an event near Tokyo on Saturday, as concerns grow that tariffs could push prices higher.

"Since Mr. Trump became president, tariffs have increased, so I’m worried about price hikes not just for the console but also accessories," said Hidenori Tanaka, a 55-year-old real estate employee who attended the event.

Tariffs introduced by U.S. President Donald Trump on key trading partners like China are raising production costs, potentially leading to higher prices for electronic devices worldwide. Although some tariffs have been eased, fears of a renewed trade war linger.

At the pre-launch event at Makuhari Messe convention center, gamers lined up from early morning to test titles like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bonanza on the Switch 2. Despite potential price hikes, early signs point to strong demand. Nintendo revealed it received 2.2 million applications for the Switch 2 lottery in Japan alone, overwhelming initial supply.

"Honestly, I thought I had no chance. Everyone on social media said they missed out, so I assumed I would too," said Hyuma Hashiguchi, 28, who secured a spot through the lottery.

The Switch 2 is priced at 49,980 yen ($350) for the Japanese version. In the U.S., Nintendo initially paused pre-orders over tariff worries but confirmed it would maintain a $449.99 price tag.

Nintendo is also hosting global hands-on events in New York, Berlin, and Hong Kong to build anticipation ahead of launch.