Store cancels Zelda Switch 2 console pre-orders despite having launch units in stock

After the latest disappointment, gamers are vowing never to reserve hardware from Walmart again. The retailer already drew criticism for how it handled the 2025 launch of Nintendo’s current-gen handheld. Now the scenario is repeating, with pre-orders for the Zelda 40th Anniversary Switch 2 console suffering cancellations.

Back at square one

To make matters worse, the Zelda-themed system's October 29th release date is imminent. With the Ocarina of Time remake also looming, buyers have to scramble to find a replacement.

Reddit has seen a growing number of posts sharing the same unwelcome message. A notice sent to PhilosophyWooden12 confirms cancellations of Zelda Switch 2 console pre-orders. Without offering a resolution, it says the item is out of stock.

Other gamers describe a similar experience, forcing them to resume their search for the often-sold-out handheld. A common complaint is that the retailer doesn’t provide a wait list option. In the meantime, Ocarina of Time will perform just as well on the standard red-colored alternative. Nintendo will be celebrating the 40th Anniversary well into 2027.

Adding to the frustration, Walmart locations may have a decent number of release date units on hand. Redditor PotentialAction6599 claims that the company expects 10-13 systems per store. Social media photos show the Zelda Switch 2 console already on shelves.

Failure to launch

Allotments for online sales are separate from inventory meant for physical storefronts. That distinction reminds fans of when Nintendo debuted its current-gen hardware. Starting in late May 2025, shoppers who had secured a console learned their pre-orders were canceled. Another wave of nullifications hit just before the June 5th launch.

Walmart attributed the problem to a system error and accommodated some customers with replacements. Yet critics blame a systematic pattern of overselling anticipated arrivals. In the more recent example, Nintendo could also be at fault, since an executive admitted it underestimated demand.

Ocarina of Time remake pre-orders may also not ship by its November 5th release date. Walmart has delayed the Switch 2 game for unlucky buyers, although reports of cancellations are rare.