August 14, 2026, 11:57 am | Read time: 2 minutes
Anyone looking to buy a Nintendo Switch 2 should not wait too long. Starting September 1, the price of the console in Europe will increase by 30 euros. What’s unusual is that Nintendo is announcing the hike months in advance, making it a public warning to its customers.
Switch 2 Will Soon Cost 30 Euros More
Nintendo is raising the price of the Switch 2 in Europe starting September 1, 2026, from 469.99 euros to 499.99 euros. The console will also be more expensive in the U.S., where the price will rise from $449.99 to $499.99. Buyers will have to dig deeper into their pockets for the same hardware.
Nintendo cites increased costs for memory chips, more expensive components, higher production costs, and additional tariffs as reasons. Even Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa publicly commented on the decision and apologized to customers. For many gamers, the news is yet another indication that gaming hardware is becoming increasingly expensive.
Switch 2 Available at Old Price for Only a Few More Months
Why Europe Is Getting a New Nintendo Switch 2
Unusually Open Communication
What is remarkable is not just the price increase itself, but especially the manner of communication. As early as the beginning of May, Nintendo announced that prices would rise in the fall. This gives the company’s customers almost four months to adjust to the change or buy at the current price.
Even demo stations of the Switch 2 in stores now point to the upcoming increase. The message is clear: Those who want to save should act quickly. With this, Nintendo is taking a much more transparent approach than many other manufacturers. Industry observers point to Sony, which has often communicated PlayStation price increases with much shorter notice in the past.
Also of interest: Why Europe is getting a new Switch 2
Praise for Transparency, Criticism for Strategy
The unusual openness is sparking discussions on social networks and forums. Many gamers praise Nintendo for announcing the price change early and clearly. From their perspective, the company shows respect for customers and enables better purchasing decisions.
However, other users see the strategy primarily as clever marketing. The early warning could pressure potential buyers into making a quicker purchase. This is the unique aspect of the action: Nintendo presents itself as a transparent manufacturer but also uses the announcement as an effective sales argument. The prospect of higher prices can be a strong incentive for many interested parties not to wait any longer.