The Nintendo Switch 2 launches on June 5, and it's been a roller coaster of emotions for gamers. When the Switch follow-up was revealed on April 2, there were some concerns over the console's $450 price tag as well as the $80 price tag for Mario Kart World. Those concerns were quickly overshadowed when Nintendo announced a delay in preordering in the U.S. due to tariffs announced by President Donald Trump on the same day.
Nintendo did open pre-orders, and they quickly sold out. However, those retailers are now letting some customers know that Switch 2 consoles are not coming for them.
On the Switch 2 subreddit, thread after thread has appeared of individuals receiving notices from Walmart that their pre-orders have been canceled. There were other threads involving Target and Best Buy orders as well.
Walmart order cancelled from r/switch2
Why are Switch 2 pre-orders getting canceled?
A post dated May 31 claims a Walmart pre-order was canceled and more cancellations were coming.
"Ended up as one of the fallen," the poster said. "Called immediately they said they’re canceling a ton of orders until the July restock."
Walmart did confirm there were cancellations of orders, but the company says it was not inventory-related.
“We have identified a very small group of customers whose orders were unfortunately affected by a system error," a Walmart spokesperson said via email. "We recognize how exciting this new product launch is and are working to ensure these customers are taken care of.”
For other Reddit users who posted notices of their canceled orders, it appears there might be a different reason behind it. In many cases, the individuals confirmed there were issues with payment authorizations. Retailers have been sending emails confirming Switch 2 pre-orders over the past week, and with those confirmations, they are also charging the credit cards used for the original April orders. If there are any issues preventing a charge from being authorized, the result is a cancellation of the preorder.
U.K. gamers experienced a similar concern over pre-orders. Game posted a notice on May 29 that it was canceling orders.
"We understand how disappointing this is, especially for those who have been eagerly awaiting their order," the retailer said in its statement. "If your order was impacted, please know that we're doing everything we can and will be in touch with further updates and next steps."
Statement regarding Nintendo Switch 2 online pre-order cancellations.Contact GAME customer services here 🔗 https://t.co/i8BVxT31aE#GAME pic.twitter.com/BV0JtpeMuUMay 29, 2025
What can gamers do if their Switch 2 preorder is canceled?
While retailers like Best Buy and Walmart are selling their Switch 2 units via pre-orders, other stores will have some consoles in stock on June 5.
GameStop, Target, Costco, and Staples confirmed they will have Switch 2 consoles at some of their stores. How many will be available is the big question, but it's likely that those wanting to buy a Switch 2 will head to the stores early.
