The lack of Switch 2 release date reviews for the console and games explained by Nintendo

In mid-May, reports emerged that Nintendo would not ship review units before the June 5th Switch 2 release date. The company has now issued a more definitive statement to Video Games Chronicle. As suspected, a critical day-one update for the handheld is the reasoning behind the decision. The delay in reviews for the system and Switch 2 games may result in launch-day surprises for buyers.

Nintendo's unusual approach to a console release won't affect its massive Switch 2 pre-order sales. Gamers have reserved the handheld based on Nintendo's controlled public relations. In Japan, the system will likely set a record for first-week console sales, with over 1.2 million consoles waiting. Still, undecided buyers have to rely on Nintendo's marketing rather than more objective Switch 2 reviews.

As VGC's Andy Robinson points out, websites are struggling to organize their Switch 2 release date efforts. Without access to the console, the best audiences can hope for are initial impressions. Also, it's a busy period for the industry, with the PlayStation State of Play, Xbox Games Showcase, and Summer Games Fest nearly here. Smaller outlets, in particular, are stretched too thin to focus solely on the new handheld.

Nintendo insists that key features and updates won't be ready before the June 5th console update. Even so, it's difficult for gamers to believe that the company couldn't offer functional handhelds to journalists. The Nintendo Today! app has showcased more recent firmware than seen in the early unboxing videos. Many observers conclude Nintendo is more concerned with preventing further Switch 2 leaks. Earlier rumors disrupted Nintendo's plans, making the April 2nd Direct less suspenseful.

Many Switch 2 games remain more of a mystery than the console itself. Smaller third-party studios especially suffer without reviews, as Nintendo prioritizes its own titles.