Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order eBay sales closing for inflated prices two months before release date

Nintendo set up guidelines to prevent scalpers from reselling the Switch 2. Gamers must have a Nintendo Switch Online subscription for at least 12 months, among other restrictions. However, the rules apply only to the company's storefront. With buyers reserving consoles from retailers in the UK and other regions, eBay sellers are already profiting. Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order listings are closing for significantly higher than MSRP.

Some of the highest sales are for the Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle in eBay UK. One example was the bundle closing for over 600 British pounds or 773 US dollars. With an MSRP of £429.99 and $499.99, these aren't historic profits for scalpers on new consoles. Nevertheless, amid scrutiny over Nintendo's high pricing, some buyers are clearly willing to pay more than retail.

Several UK retailers, including Argos and Amazon, have already begun sales or sent out invites. The Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order situation in the United States is more complicated. After learning of new Trump tariffs, the manufacturer postponed sales in the country. That could leave eBay as the only alternative if sellers somehow acquire the console.

It's unclear if any of the eBay sales will avoid cancellation. According to the marketplace's guidelines in the UK, "Presale listings must guarantee that the item will be posted within 40 business days of purchase." Sellers must also clearly state that the listing is for a Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order that will ship within this timeframe. The same policy applies to eBay in the US and Australia. Considering that the console's official debut is June 5th, none of these sales appear legitimate. Still, the "40 business days" stipulation would extend the period closer to that date.

Many of the eBay listings are now missing due to policy violations. Still, as the Switch 2 release date approaches, it will become easier for sellers to meet the site's requirements.