According to Nintendo’s official statement, the delay is necessary to “assess the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions.” The news sparked immediate backlash online, where frustrated gamers squarely blamed Trump for the disruption.
How much will the Switch 2 cost now—and why is it higher in the U.S.?
The Switch 2 was already raising eyebrows with its $449 price tag, a noticeable jump from previous generations. But now, due to the fresh wave of tariffs, many fans are bracing for an even steeper cost in the U.S.—some speculating prices could balloon past $500.
The new tariffs are especially harsh on countries like Vietnam and Cambodia, which have become Nintendo’s go-to manufacturing hubs after the company began shifting away from China during Trump’s first term. With Vietnam facing a 46% tariff and Cambodia hit with a staggering 49%, importing the console to the U.S. just got a lot more expensive.
What are fans saying about Trump and the delay?
The online reaction was swift, loud, and not at all subtle. Social media was flooded with angry posts blaming Trump for ruining what should have been a massive moment for gamers. One frustrated fan summed it up with, “Now it’ll cost a billion dollars, thanks orange man,” while another declared, “Say thank you to the worst president of US history.”
Some users didn’t stop at Trump, though—they went after his supporters, too. “If you’re a U.S. gamer and you voted for Trump (or didn’t vote at all), this Switch 2 mess is 100% on you,” one post read. The sentiment was echoed across platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Reddit, and gaming forums where fans vented their disappointment.
Why are tariffs affecting gaming consoles in 2025?
The resurgence of tariffs isn’t just a random move. It’s part of Trump’s aggressive trade policy, one that’s made a comeback in his second term. Back in his first stint as president, tariffs hit Chinese-made goods hard—leading many tech companies, including Nintendo, to relocate production. But this time, Trump’s trade crackdown has broadened. Countries like Vietnam and Cambodia—previously safe havens for electronics manufacturing—are now caught in the crosshairs. And when factories take a hit, it’s only a matter of time before the cost is passed down to the consumer.
Could more tech products be hit with price hikes?
Unfortunately, yes. The Switch 2 delay might be just the tip of the iceberg. Industry insiders warn that more tech products, including consoles, accessories, and possibly even smartphones, could face price jumps as companies scramble to adjust to the new tariff landscape.
One user put it bluntly: “Get ready, because this is only the beginning of everything taking a significant jump in price.” It’s a reminder that economic policies—especially ones tied to global trade—don’t just live in headlines. They show up in your wallet.
The Switch 2 was supposed to be a moment of celebration for Nintendo fans, not a political battleground. But with tariffs in play and prices on the rise, the excitement has quickly turned to anger—especially among U.S. gamers who now face uncertainty about when, and how much, they’ll have to pay to get their hands on the console.
For now, the global launch is still on track for June. But if you’re in the U.S., you might want to hold off on your pre-order hype—at least until the tariff dust settles.
FAQs:
Why is the Nintendo Switch 2 preorder delayed in the U.S.?
Because of Trump’s new tariffs on imported consoles.
Will the Nintendo Switch 2 price increase in the U.S.?
Yes, due to higher import costs from new tariffs.
