Nintendo has announced that some of its flagship games for the upcoming Switch 2 console will come with a higher price tag than usual. The company revealed that Mario Kart World, a launch title set to release on June 5th, will cost $79.99, while Donkey Kong Bananza, scheduled to launch a month later, will be priced at $69.99.

This marks a significant departure from the standard $59.99 price point for most Switch games. The move has raised eyebrows among gamers and industry observers, who are wondering if this signals a shift towards more expensive games for the Switch 2. Nintendo's decision to price The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom at $69.99 last year had already set a precedent for higher-priced titles.

When asked about the pricing strategy, Nintendo told Game Informer that they determine the suggested retail price for each product on a case-by-case basis. While this approach may allow for more flexibility, it also raises concerns about the overall affordability of Switch 2 games. The higher prices may be a reflection of the console's improved hardware and capabilities, but it remains to be seen how gamers will respond to the increased cost.

One potential silver lining for gamers is the availability of a special Switch 2 bundle that includes Mario Kart World for $499.99. This bundle may help soften the blow of the higher game price, especially for those who were already planning to purchase the console and the game. However, it's unclear if similar bundles will be offered for other games or if this is a one-time promotion.

The Switch 2's pricing strategy is likely to be closely watched by the gaming industry, as it could have implications for the console's market performance and Nintendo's revenue. With the console set to launch on June 5th, gamers will be keeping a close eye on the prices of upcoming games and the overall value proposition of the Switch 2.

In related news, Nintendo has also revealed more details about the Switch 2's Joy-Cons, eShop, and other features. The company is touting improved performance and smoother gameplay experiences, which may help justify the higher prices of some games. However, only time will tell if the Switch 2's pricing strategy will pay off for Nintendo and resonate with gamers.