Nintendo has announced that pre-orders for the highly anticipated Switch 2 console will open in the US on April 24, following a delay caused by the Trump administration's tariffs on international goods. Despite initial concerns that the console's price would increase due to the tariffs, Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 will still launch at its original price of $449.99 on June 5.

However, the company did reveal that Switch 2 accessories will see a price increase due to "changes in market conditions." The Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller, initially priced at $79.99, will now cost $84.99. Joy-Cons will increase from $89.99 to $94.99, and the new Switch 2 camera attachment will go from $49.99 to $54.99. Most accessories are seeing a $5 price bump, according to Nintendo's press release.

The good news for gamers is that the prices of digital and physical versions of launch-day titles, such as Mario Kart World ($79.99) and Donkey Kong Bananza ($69.99), will remain unchanged. In a statement, Nintendo apologized for the retail pre-order delay and expressed hope that this announcement would reduce uncertainty for customers.

This news comes on the heels of Sony's announcement earlier this week that it would increase PlayStation 5 prices in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand due to shifts in the global economy. Industry insiders expect similar price adjustments to hit the US market eventually. The video game console market is particularly vulnerable to tariffs, as they are not exempt from the Trump administration's export rules, unlike certain electronics like smartphones and laptops.

The tariff-related price hikes are likely to have a ripple effect across the gaming industry, with other manufacturers potentially following suit. This could lead to a shift in consumer behavior, with gamers potentially opting for more affordable alternatives or delaying purchases. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how these price increases will impact sales and the overall market landscape.

In the meantime, Nintendo fans can breathe a sigh of relief that the Switch 2 console itself will not see a price increase. However, the accessory price hikes may still cause some sticker shock. With pre-orders opening on April 24, gamers will soon have the opportunity to get their hands on the latest Nintendo console, albeit with a slightly heavier price tag for some accessories.