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Switch 2 can now be pre-ordered direct from Nintendo without an invite in some regions

No more hoops to jump through, mostly
Jack Goodall
Last Updated on
Switch 2 can now be pre-ordered direct from Nintendo without an invite in some regions
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If you’re looking to pre-order the Nintendo Switch 2, there are many retailers partnered with Nintendo that are happy to take your order. However, stock levels are always going to be a problem, and for many, pre-ordering directly from the Nintendo website was their best bet. However, this previously came with a set of prerequisites in order to be invited. Initial invitees had to be a Switch Online member for at least two years and fulfill certain playtime requirements.

Switch 2 has proven to be massively popular, with intial pre-orders causing havoc – namely, website crashes and canceled orders. The dust has settled since retailers began taking pre-orders, but Nintendo opening them up again may see demand surge yet again. We’re sure that many people missed out on the first wave, so now’s your chance for to grab one, if you live in Europe.

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Nintendo store pre-orders are no longer invite-only, starting in Europe

As visible on some of Nintendo’s European storefronts, including the UK and Germany, the invite-only requirement has been lifted. This essentially means you can get your hands on the Switch 2 without being an active Switch user. Keep in mind that there is still one requirement: you need to be a Nintendo Switch Online member. The two-year requirement seems to have been dropped, however.

For context, pictured below is how the invitation program used to work:

The previous invite-only phase is no longer a thing in some European countries, image credit: Nintendo

In regions such as the United States, Nintendo’s ‘How to Buy’ page notes that you’ll need to opt for one of the purchase the console from one of the partnered retailers (GameStop, Best Buy, Target, or Walmart) or register your interest the old-fashioned way. The Switch 2 is still yet to make an appearance on the Amazon US store.

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About the Author

Jack Goodall

At PC Guide, Jack is mostly responsible for reporting on hardware deals. He also specializes in monitors, TVs, and headsets and can be found putting his findings together in a review or best-of guide.