Nintendo has announced a unique approach to combat scalpers in the preorder process for its highly anticipated Switch 2 console. In a move to prioritize genuine fans, the company will only allow customers who have accumulated at least 50 hours of gameplay on the original Switch and have an active 12-month Switch Online membership to preorder the new console directly from its website.

This anti-scalper mechanism, revealed on Nintendo's preorder registration page, aims to ensure that loyal customers get first dibs on the Switch 2, which is set to launch on June 5th for $449.99. To track gameplay hours, users must have opted in to share their gameplay data with Nintendo, which can be checked by logging into their Nintendo account and reviewing their privacy settings.

Nintendo will send out the first round of preorder invites on May 8th, 2025, with additional batches of invitation emails to be sent periodically until the preorder window opens to everyone. Once invited, customers will have 72 hours to complete their preorder. Meanwhile, preorders at participating retailers will become available to the general public on April 9th in North America and April 8th in Europe.

The Switch 2 boasts several significant upgrades, including a larger 7.9-inch 1080p display, 256GB of storage, a C-button for in-game chats, and an extra USB-C port at the top of the device. The console will also be accompanied by a range of new games, such as Donkey Kong Bananza, Kirby AirRiders, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment, and more.

This move by Nintendo is seen as a proactive step to address the issue of scalpers, who often exploit limited product supplies to resell items at inflated prices. By prioritizing loyal customers, Nintendo aims to create a more equitable and fan-friendly preorder experience.

Industry experts view this approach as a positive development, as it rewards dedicated gamers and discourages profiteering. The success of this strategy will likely be closely watched by other manufacturers and could potentially influence the way preorders are handled in the future.

As the gaming community eagerly awaits the launch of the Switch 2, Nintendo's anti-scalper measures are expected to contribute to a smoother and more enjoyable preorder experience for genuine fans.