The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025, and it's expected to be a highly sought-after product. To manage pre-orders effectively, Nintendo is introducing some measures through the official My Nintendo Store to prioritize genuine Switch enthusiasts.

On the My Nintendo Store, those with a Nintendo Account can express their interest in pre-ordering a Nintendo Switch 2 system along with "select accessories." Once registered, interested buyers will receive an invitation email when it's their turn to pre-order, which remains valid for 72 hours. However, there are specific requirements to be met: you need to have logged significant playtime on your original Switch and be a member of Nintendo Switch Online.

According to the fine print on the site, "Invitation emails will be prioritized on a first-come, first-served basis to registrants who have purchased a Nintendo Switch Online membership with a minimum of 12 months of paid membership and a minimum of 50 total gameplay hours, as of April 2, 2025." These invitations are non-transferable and will be sent to the email associated with the Nintendo Account that registered interest. Additionally, there's a one-per-account limit for both the system and each accessory during the invitation period. Currently, you can express interest in either a base Nintendo Switch 2 system or one bundled with Mario Kart World.

After purchase, orders will be shipped, and an approximate shipping date will be provided at the time of ordering. Nintendo also clarifies that "release-day delivery is not guaranteed due to processing and shipment times." These measures seem aimed at ensuring that those who pre-order through this process are genuinely interested in using the Switch 2 for personal gaming rather than reselling it online.

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow

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Scalping has been a significant issue with new releases of popular products, as seen with the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and the Pokémon Trading Card Game. Valve effectively managed this problem with the Steam Deck by implementing a queue system that tied purchases to existing Steam accounts and considered account creation dates. It's no surprise that Nintendo is adopting a similar approach with the My Nintendo Store process.

While there will be other ways to purchase a Switch 2, this method could help long-time Switch 1 owners secure a pre-order on launch day without the usual chaos.