Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders Mishandled by GameStop on Launch Day
Post-Launch Debacle: Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders
Let's face it, things didn't go as planned.
After a grueling night (and probably a dreadful dream for many), folks were desperate to grab a Nintendo Switch 2 from retail giants like Walmart, Best Buy, and Target. GameStop seemed like the last beacon of hope for numerous hopeful customers to nab one on launch day. Preorders were set to go live at 11 a.m. ET on April 24, but the retailer's site and app promptly malfunctioned once the hour struck.
Within moments after preorders became accessible for users, including several of our Gizmodo staff members, the GameStop site was overwhelmed with a torrent of requests. Users encountered a Cloudflare error 502 for a bad gateway. Currently, if the GameStop listing for Switch 2 loads at all, it displays a grayed-out box listing the handheld as "Not Available."
Personally, I can verify that for a brief moment, I managed to reload GameStop's page and witness a red box with a "Not Available" sticker. Clicking on it, Iwas directed to a page where I could place my order. I received an order number, but I still haven't received a confirmation email. The order does not appear in my GameStop account, and my credit card hasn't been charged. Several buyers appear to have experienced similar predicaments. GameStop later informed customers that those who didn't receive a confirmation email should be receiving one shortly. Since then, I've received confirmation that my order went through. If you're still clinging to hope, check your account or email inbox to see if you've received a confirmation email.
I reached out to GameStop to inquire about the situation, but I didn't receive a prompt response. At this juncture, it's safe to assume the Switch 2 is sold out online from most major retailers, at least until more inventory becomes available.
For a while, the GameStop app displayed a notification reading "Activity Paused" with the following message: "We are having problems processing this request from the network you are currently on." The app is operational as of Thursday afternoon. Previously, the app failed to load the listings for both the $450 console-only model and the $500 Mario Kart World bundle that offers a $30 discount on the game.
In an update posted on X, GameStop announced "Nintendo Switch 2 preorders have sold out online. We will continue to squash bot and duplicate orders to reopen inventory."
There's still a glimmer of hope for securing a Switch 2 on launch day, and that's through an in-store preorder. Yes, you'll need to visit a brick-and-mortar retail establishment... and wait. Good luck, though, because users are reporting long lines at GameStop locations all across the U.S. Some locations have varying levels of stock, while others might have upwards of 50 units or more in stock. Some consumers reported securing a spot in line early in the morning and receiving a receipt for a console. However, we don't recommend you hit the road at this very moment to increase your chances. At least give your store a call before you waste your time.
The Switch 2 is poised to be one of the biggest gaming launches in years. In Japan, Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa apologized after preorders exceeded the number of available launch units through Nintendo's My Nintendo Store. Nintendo has promised to send out emails to users ordering directly from the company on May 8. However, the company warns on its website: "Due to the incredibly high demand, we will be working diligently to fulfill orders as products become available, but delivery by June 5 is not guaranteed. Your invitation email may arrive after the Nintendo Switch 2 launch."
As of the present moment, the Switch 2 is listed as sold out at Best Buy, Target, and Walmart. Perhaps it's wise to take a breather and wait to acquire a console after the launch on June 5, 2025. This will also provide you with time to read reviews (we do those!) and decide whether you truly need a new device in your life.
This is a developing story. We'll update this post as we learn more information.
- The gamestop site was inundated with requests for the Nintendo Switch 2, leading to a Cloudflare error 502 for a bad gateway.
- Several Gizmodo staff members encountered this issue while attempting to preorder the technology gadget, resulting in a grayed-out box listing the handheld as "Not Available."
- Despite initial struggles, the GameStop app is operational again, displaying a list of both the console-only model and the Mario Kart World bundle, but availability remains scarce.
- In some GameStop locations, up to 50 units of the Nintendo Switch 2 are reportedly available, offering a sliver of hope for consumers still seeking the tech device.
- The future of obtaining a Nintendo Switch 2 appears to lie in waiting for reviews, analyzing personal tech needs, and considering a post-launch purchase, as the device is currently listed as sold out at major retailers.
