Zelda Switch 2 console already in stores, with one buyer unboxing a pre-order

The Zelda 40th Anniversary Switch 2 console remains scarce ahead of its October 29th release date. Despite limited restocks, the handheld is already appearing on shelves. A fortunate European buyer was even allowed to collect a pre-order, producing one of the first unboxings.

A positive sign?

Nintendeal is among the social media accounts sharing photos of the system at Walmart. The advertised $519.99 price appears underneath the box, although shoppers likely won’t have much luck checking out. That said, a gamer nearly made it through the process before a manager intervened.

The images may produce groans from fans still trying to secure the Zelda Switch 2 console. Unlike Nintendo New York and San Francisco, Walmart hasn't announced a launch event. Yet even at other stores, quantities could disappoint on the hardware’s release date. Nintendeal learned GameStop will only sell 0-5 units per location.

The Walmart sighting could spark hope that Nintendo ramped up production in time. When the standard console debuted in June 2025, online pre-orders were fulfilled from a separate warehouse. Regardless, it’s wise to keep checking restock trackers like TrackaLacker rather than depending on a physical retailer.

An anticipated unboxing

European Redditor coiL_10 was able to bring the Zelda 40th Anniversary hardware home early. The poster uploaded a series of photos displaying the handheld, dock, and Joy-Con 2 in detail. Some readers think they show the gear's black, gold, and green hues more accurately than the manufacturer.

Recently, Ireland-based Smyths Toys updated its listings to indicate the Zelda Switch 2 console would have a user-replaceable battery. Nintendo’s website had suggested the special-edition system doesn’t offer that perk. It may be because coiL_10’s unit came from an earlier batch, but they confirmed it’s not the easier-to-service revision.

Stores are also reportedly stocking the sought-after Zelda Switch 2 Pro Controller. To test the accessory, Best Buy’s November 5th midnight launch celebration will include the Ocarina of Time remake. Sadly, as the game’s release date approaches, Walmart has delayed some pre-orders.