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Nintendo Addresses Concerns Over Switch 2's Price Keeping Kids From Getting It

The Nintendo Switch 2 might be a cheaper console than the PS5 and Xbox Series X, but at $450, it's still pretty expensive. In the US, the original Switch launched at $300, making this a big jump and one that many can't necessarily afford. Nintendo recently held an investors call, with one investor noting how the Switch 2 has a higher price point than earlier consoles like the Famicom (or the NES everywhere else). This has caused them some concern that this "might reduce opportunities for young children to engage with" the console, and Nintendo addressed this directly in its response.

In response, Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa had this to say: "We believe the pricing of Nintendo Switch 2 is appropriate for the gaming experience it offers, and what is most important is to provide entertaining experiences that demonstrate the value to consumers. To achieve this goal, we have incorporated various features into Nintendo Switch 2.

"It is true that Nintendo Switch 2 has a higher price point than our past gaming systems. We are creating various opportunities outside of our gaming systems for young children to engage with Nintendo characters and game worlds, with one of the ultimate goals being that they will eventually play on our gaming systems. We are closely monitoring to what degree the price of the system might become a barrier."

In recent years, Nintendo has made numerous moves outside of developing games in expanding places where you can find its characters, from The Super Mario Bros. Movie, to Lego sets, to entire areas in multiple Universal Studios parks.

Whether or not the Switch 2's price point will continue to be a concern remains to be seen. Nintendo did express concerns about it prior to launch, but it went on to become its fastest-selling console ever. Time will tell if Nintendo decides to change the price if sales don't continue at a good pace.