## Nintendo Switch 2: Preorders Open April 9th with Strict Requirements
The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 is poised to arrive this June, and preorders open on April 9th via the Nintendo online store. The console will retail starting at £395.99. For those eager to get their hands on both the new hardware and a launch title, a bundle including the console and a copy of *Mario Kart World* is available for £429.99. *Mario Kart World* can also be purchased separately, costing £74.99 for a physical Game Card or £66.99 as a digital download via the eShop.
However, securing a Switch 2 preorder isn’t straightforward. Nintendo is implementing several restrictions to prioritize “the most dedicated Nintendo Switch players in Europe and the UK.” These requirements are designed to ensure early access is granted to loyal fans:
* **Nintendo Switch Online Subscription:** You must have been continuously subscribed to Nintendo Switch Online for at least two years by March 31, 2025.
* **Active Membership:** An active Nintendo Switch Online membership is required at the time of placing your preorder.
* **Playtime History:** Nintendo will consider the number of hours spent playing purchased/paid Nintendo Switch games on your existing console. Higher playtime increases your chances.
* **Data Sharing:** You must have opted to share console usage information with Nintendo for personalized offers and recommendations.
* **Promotional Emails:** Agreeing to receive promotional emails from Nintendo is also a requirement.
Family Plan Considerations: If you’re part of a Nintendo Switch Online family plan, only the account holder who originally purchased the membership will be eligible to preorder.
Despite these restrictions, other retailers may offer preorders with fewer limitations. While some, like HMV, EE Store, ShopTo, and SimplyGames, are expected to stock the console without specific requirements (provided they have sufficient inventory), Amazon UK requires an invitation to purchase.
Amazon’s Invite System: Amazon warns that not all applicants will receive a link to purchase due to “high demand and limited quantities.”
ShopTo is offering a unique opportunity to secure your place in the queue with a mere 1p deposit, alongside interest-free payment plans and 2% cashback.
### Key Features & Launch Titles
The Nintendo Switch 2 boasts several upgrades:
* **Redesigned Joy-Con 2 Controllers:** These controllers feature magnets for secure attachment to the console’s sides in handheld mode and can also double as computer mice.
* **GameChat:** A new voice communication system, allowing players to chat with up to 12 friends during gameplay—creating a shared room experience. A compatible USB-C camera (sold separately for £49.99) enables face-to-face interaction.
* **Improved Display & Performance:** The console features a larger 7.9-inch LCD screen displaying full HD at 1080p, along with a significantly improved CPU and GPU providing enhanced graphics and faster loading times.
* **Increased Storage:** 256GB of internal storage—eight times more than the original Switch.
Launch Titles:
- Mario Kart World: A flagship title with interconnected courses, up to 24 drivers, new modes like Knockout Tour and Free Roam.
- Donkey Kong Bananza: A brand-new 3D platformer where players can crash, bash, and climb through environments. (Releases July 17, 2025)
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild & Tears of the Kingdom: Both titles receive Switch 2 Editions with performance upgrades and a new “Zelda Notes” feature.
Third-party support is robust, featuring major releases like:
* EA Sports’ Madden NFL
* EA SPORTS FC
* Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition
* Final Fantasy VII: Remake
* Street Fighter 6
* Hogwarts Legacy
* Elden Ring (later this year)
Finally, Nintendo is offering *Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour*, an interactive guide highlighting the console’s new features, available on launch day from the eShop.
