Why Nintendo Switch 2 and Mario Kart World Prices Are Soaring—And What’s Driving the Hike

According to Nintendo, the Nintendo Switch 2 will go on sale on June 5, 2025, for $449.99. Mario Kart World, which retails for $80, will be included with the console. For those who wish to purchase both items, a bundled option is offered for $499.99.

Nintendo Switch 2 and Mario Kart World: Release Date, Pricing, and Features

The Switch 2’s $450 price tag is in line with earlier analyst projections, which had initially predicted a $400–$500 range.

This pricing strategy considers a number of variables, including potential tariff effects and growing manufacturing costs.

To reduce the risks involved in manufacturing in China, Nintendo has moved some of its operations to Vietnam.

At $80, Mario Kart World is categorized as a high-end game, demonstrating Nintendo’s belief that its caliber justifies a higher price.

The game supports up to 24 players and has sophisticated features like off-road racing and dynamic weather, which enhance the overall gaming experience.

A 7.9-inch 1080p LCD screen, 256GB of internal storage, redesigned Joy-Con controllers with magnetic connectors, and a “C” button for chat features are just a few of the enhancements that the Nintendo Switch 2 offers over its predecessor.

Through the use of a built-in microphone, the console’s “GameChat” feature facilitates voice communication. When paired with an external camera attachment, it also permits video chat.

Long-term success will depend on obtaining broad market acceptance, but initial demand is anticipated to be high, especially among devoted fans.

The higher price tags may be a hardship for families trying to cut costs, and it’s unclear how this strategy will affect revenue in the long run.

Nintendo‘s strategy finds a balance between adding cutting-edge features and accounting for economic considerations like tariffs.