Hey there Legend! Just to bring to your notice that some links and ad banners on this page are affiliates which means that, if you choose to make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We greatly appreciate your support!
GameStop Says More Switch 2 Consoles Will Be Available at Launch—Here’s How to Snag One
May 17, 2025Did you blink and miss the Switch 2 preorder window? Did you hesitate for one second too long before hitting “confirm order” and now you’re frantically checking eBay prices you absolutely refuse to pay? Well, take a deep breath and put the scalper tab away, because GameStop just swooped in like a pixelated hero in red overalls.
That’s right: the beloved (and sometimes infuriating) gaming retailer has confirmed that it will offer additional Nintendo Switch 2 units at launch, both in-store and online. If you’re willing to show up early, click fast, or do a little both, your next-gen Nintendo dream might still be within reach.
Table of Contents
GameStop’s Launch Plan: More Units, More Hope
GameStop isn’t just tossing a few stray consoles online and calling it a day. They’ve officially announced that extra Switch 2 units will be made available during their launch event. According to their statement:
“Didn’t pre-order Switch 2? Additional Switch 2 units will be available in-store and online at launch while supplies last.”
Translation: You’ve still got a shot—just don’t expect to stroll in at 3 p.m. and grab one casually. This will still be a first-come, first-served scenario, and supplies are expected to disappear faster than Mario with a star power-up.
When and Where It’s All Going Down
If you’re planning to snag a Switch 2 from GameStop, timing is everything. Here’s how it’s going to play out:
- Launch Event Begins In-Store: 3PM local time on June 4th
- Console Pickups Begin: Midnight Eastern / 9PM Pacific
- Online Availability: Also starts at launch, exact timing not confirmed—so keep those tabs refreshed
This means you’ve got two clear options: line up early at your local store (bring snacks and patience) or set multiple alarms for the online launch and channel your inner speedrunner. Or hey, do both if you’re feeling brave.
Get Up to 40% Extra Credit (No, Not the School Kind)
In true GameStop fashion, there’s a trade-in promo baked into all of this. From now until the end of June, you can get 40% extra trade credit when trading in any video games toward Switch 2 games or accessories. That’s a pretty solid deal—especially if you’ve got a stack of old titles gathering dust (we’re looking at you, Just Dance 2016).
Use that credit to score Mario Kart, Metroid Prime, or whatever other shiny new title is stealing the spotlight on day one. Or treat yourself to a new Pro Controller—because Joy-Con drift is a story for another day.
Should You Wait for Restocks Instead?
Let’s be real: even though GameStop is releasing more units at launch, it’s still going to be competitive. If you’re someone who doesn’t thrive in digital queue chaos or hates standing in line with dozens of anxious fans, you might be wondering if it’s smarter to just wait.
Well, yes and no. We don’t know how frequent Switch 2 restocks will be in the weeks following launch, but if history is any guide (ahem, OG Switch and PS5), they’ll likely be sporadic and hard to catch for a while. So if you’re set on getting one early, this GameStop window might be your best shot for a while. That said, if you’re cool with waiting a bit—and maybe catching a bundle deal down the line—patience is power.
Share this:
While games are fun, it’s highly important to note that there’s more to life than sitting countless hours playing video games – there’s a purpose and more to life; seek out that purpose more often!
