Best Buy confirms late-night Nintendo Switch 2 release date sales as pre-order alternative

Gamers disappointed by the Switch 2 pre-order opportunities have a new reason for hope. After conflicting messaging a day earlier, Best Buy has again confirmed consoles will be available on June 5th. US stores will open at around midnight EST with a limited quantity of handhelds. Also, gamers who purchase a console on the Switch 2 release date can expect a free collectible.

After a brief delay following tariff announcements, Switch 2 pre-order sales opened on April 24th. Many frustrated gamers saw websites crash due to unprecedented demand. Best Buy also did not open sales until after the advertised time. Buyers contended with virtual waiting lines only to encounter out-of-stock messages. Since then, other stores like Walmart have occasionally restocked the console. Nevertheless, supplies remain low, prompting eBay scalpers to sell the system for inflated prices.

Anticipating tariffs, Nintendo reportedly sent a massive supply of Vietnam-made handhelds to the US earlier this year. Now, it seems that either units remain or Nintendo bolstered stock levels. Best Buy customers can line up before locations open on June 5th to score the coveted handheld. Gamers who have already reserved the system can pick up their orders at the same time.

Some buyers are concerned about the chaos of Switch 2 release date sales. Best Buy will likely organize lines to separate pick-ups from new purchases. However, it's unclear if all buyers will receive the advertised collectible. A previous rumor suggested that the bonus is a gold coin.

Gamers who brave the crowds can also choose from various Switch 2 games and accessories. So far, other retailers haven't revealed their plans, but Walmart may also have a supply of consoles on June 5th.