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The Nintendo Switch has been sold out almost everywhere online (and in-store at many popular retailers) for more than a month, even as some of its biggest games continue to gain popularity. With global supply chains reacting to the rapid spread of the coronavirus, or COVID-19, stock shortages of numerous goods are expected. If you’ve been tempted by the release of Animal Crossing: New Horizons, you might be out of luck already, as stock of Nintendo’s handheld console has become almost impossible to find beyond third-party sellers–and the prices for those are surging up to $600. According to Daniel Ahmad, a senior analyst at Niko Partners, supply won’t return to normal until the “end of Q2,” and we’re already reaching that point rapidly. The Nintendo Switch Lite comes back in stock periodically, but those also sell out quickly, and you won’t be able to connect them into a TV.
Shortages have been common for Nintendo Switch around the world, not just in Japan. Primarily due to:
– Shutdown of production during February
– Global supply chain and logistics issues.
– Gradual re-opening during March.
– Higher than expected demand due to AC/Covid-19.— Daniel Ahmad (@ZhugeEX) April 16, 2020
With demand high and supply low, people have been forced to go for limited (and pretty pricey) Nintendo Switch bundles, like the ones regularly springing up at GameStop that can sell out quickly, or consider even pricier third-party sellers. Ring Fit Adventure has been facing shortages for a while as well, as many scramble to find a way to stay active and occupied while stuck inside. To make matters worse, a new Nintendo Switch lawsuit is trying to pull the console off shelves altogether–meanwhile, Switch shipments have been halted in Japan due to the coronavirus. That might not affect international stock just yet, but we’ll keep you updated.
One recent report also suggested that an auto-purchasing bot built specifically to watch for Nintendo Switch stock could be exacerbating the issue, as resellers are using it to nab units quickly and flip them.
Is The Nintendo Switch Sold Out?
It’s becoming increasingly difficult to find stock of the original Nintendo Switch at its official, $300 retail price across the usual channels, including Amazon, Best Buy, and Ebay. The Nintendo Switch Lite, which retails for $200, isn’t as scarce across all retailers, but it is sold out on Amazon. Nintendo of America knows supply is short, and hopes to renew stock in the near future.
“Nintendo Switch hardware is selling out at various retail locations in the U.S., but more systems are on the way,” Nintendo explained in a statement to GameSpot. “We apologize for any inconvenience.”
Some retailers are getting supplies in, but they don’t tend to last long.
Where To Buy A Nintendo Switch
If you’re absolutely in need of a Switch right now, there are still numerous ways to get one through third-party sellers. As expected though, you will be paying a premium. Right now, the cheapest Nintendo Switch or Switch Lite listing on Amazon will cost you way more than you should pay for one.
Things on Ebay aren’t that much better. There’s a slew of pre-owned console selling for near retail prices, and you can expect to pay over $400 for a brand-new original Switch and no less than $300 for a new Switch Lite. For the latest updates, we’re currently tracking where you can buy a Switch right now.
Perhaps one of the most reliable ways you can get your hands on the console without venturing outside right now is through the handful of Nintendo Switch bundles being offered up. There are currently a few at GameStop you might want to check out. You can check out the best offers on both the Switch and Switch Lite still available below.
Buy a Nintendo Switch
- Currently sold out at all major retailers
Buy a Nintendo Switch Lite
- Best Buy — $200
- GameStop — $230-$260 (Bundled with Minecraft, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, or Mario Kart 8 Deluxe)
With no firm date on when new stock will arrive and the global spread of COVID-19 just getting worse in some countries, it’s unclear when this situation might get any better. If you’re finding yourself in dire need of some sort of distraction while you’re most likely stuck inside, we’ve compiled a ton of great game, movie, and TV show streaming options to keep you busy.
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