4 ways to shop smart for the Switch 2

It’s no secret to anybody that international market prices have been a daily rollercoaster. Fortunately, it’s finally confirmed that the Switch 2 console and its games are sitting out for this ride. While none of these items will thankfully experience a price increase from their previously disclosed costs, they’re still considerably more expensive than even the most expensive Switch console and its games. And while there won’t be a price hike for these items, the prices of some amiibo and Switch 2 accessories will marginally go up due to their manufactured countries of origin.

Many folks are left a bit baffled at how they will be able to afford this new and exciting Nintendo technology. But fear not. You don’t have to be a rich tycoon living on Windfall Island to snag some Switch 2 merriment for yourself and your family. You’ll only need a little extra shopping savvy, and we’ve found some good nuggets of wisdom to share with you. It is important to note that these options and examples discussed here specifically reflect the United States area, but if you’re not in the U.S. you might want to check with your local retailer to see if they know about or can do a similar deal in your area.

Tip #1: Trade in Your Console

Got an extra console sitting around collecting dust? Then you already have a pile of rupees ready to be cashed in. If you’re willing to part with it, you can trade it in for a Switch 2 to save some serious dough. GameStop has a tantalizing offer right now where you can trade in a Switch, an Xbox 306, or even a PlayStation 5 (sike!) toward a Switch 2 purchase. They’ll even help you transfer your data to your shiny new console. It’s a deal that almost feels like you’re about to get zapped by the Link’s Awakening shopkeeper, but trust us, it’s legit. You’ll need to don your Pegasus Boots, though. This deal lasts only until April 26.

Tip #2: Check Your Compatibility

There’s a lot of chatter about the prices of Switch 2 accessories out there, and for good reason. But don’t let the scare tactics fool you. Unlike the Nintendo consoles of yesteryear, the Switch 2 has a unique advantage. It’s surprisingly compatible with a lot more stuff these days, hardware included. If you already have a Switch console, there’s a good chance that some of the Switch accessories lying around in your home will work with the Switch 2, such as Joy Cons and Pro Controllers. Don’t have a Pro Controller? No problem. A Switch Pro Controller considerably costs less right now than the new upgraded one for Switch 2, and the only major difference between the two models is the battery charge time.

Nintendo confirmed that the Switch 2 also works with third party webcams if they pass a compatibility test, so you don’t have to buy the Nintendo webcam if you already have one. Not all the Switch accessories are compatible, of course, but that’s to be expected. Lucky for you, we found this handy little chart above courtesy of Nintendeal (@Nintendeal) to help you keep everything straight in your bargain hunting.

Tip #3: Think About The Games You Already Have

The intricacies of the new Switch 2 technology are a little complicated and have a bit of a learning curve, but it’s well worth your while to do the homework if you want to save serious money. Remember, the Switch 2 was designed as a continuation of the highly successful Nintendo Switch. If gamers all around the world enjoyed everything that the Switch had to offer, why reinvent the wheel? That’s what Nintendo had in mind when they developed its successor — for Switch gamers just like us.

But the real question is, what’s in it for you? It means that if you’re already a dedicated Nintendo customer, you’re in luck. Many existing Switch games are already compatible with the Switch 2. And with GameCube classics like The Wind Waker coming to Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) with the Switch 2, now is a great time to revisit that NSO backlog while you’re saving money for new Switch 2 game releases.

Speaking of Switch 2 games, let’s take a moment to explain there are two different kinds. Some games will be brand new for the Switch 2 only. But other games, called Switch 2 Editions, are Switch game cartridges with Switch 2 upgrades that come with them. That’s why it can cost a pretty penny if you buy a Switch 2 Edition game in a box outright. You’re essentially buying a game and a half in a single container. But if you’re already a dedicated Nintendo customer, there is good news. If you’ve already been a Nintendo Switch Online member for at least a year (who wasn’t during the pandemic, right?), you can get certain Switch 2 game upgrades for free if you already have the Switch cartridge for it. This applies for both Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom. That means you can keep on hunting those doggone Korok Seeds with a bigger screen and beautiful improved resolution with the new Switch 2 and not miss a beat. You’ll get a neat Zelda Notes app on your smartphone for free too, by the way. More on that later.

Nintendo also explained in the Switch 2 Direct that the Switch 2 has a brand new digital game sharing technology called GameShare. This tech sounds complicated at first, but it’s worth learning how to use. In its purest essence it is simply a way for friends and family members to share their games with each other digitally. It’s also a smart way to save money instead of having to pay for multiple copies in the same household.

Tip #4: Splurge on Switch 2 Essentials

With all this said, you’re well on your way to stockpile in the bank by now if you follow the above advice, which will help you “splurge” for those exclusive Switch 2 things that you likely won’t be able to avoid if you need them, such as the SD Express memory cards. The same also applies for any new amiibo you’re eyeing up, as a sale for them is unlikely in their current marked up state. But hey, spending an extra five or ten bucks on a few things is a whole different story than several hundred. In these turbulent times, it’s certainly possible to continue playing the games you love with affordability. All it takes is to be a little more resourceful, appreciative, and mindful in your video game shopping experience.