Nintendo's first post-Switch 2 Nintendo Direct Treehouse livestream has been inundated with frustrated comments from users urging the company to "DROP THE PRICE." A quick look at the YouTube chat during the stream reveals a wave of discontent over the pricing strategy for Nintendo's transition to the next generation, particularly the $449.99 price tag for the Switch 2 and the highly debated $79.99 price for Mario Kart World.
The Nintendo Switch 2 system is set to retail for $449.99, though a bundle option is available that includes Mario Kart World for $499.99, offering a $30 saving on the game. However, the pricing of Mario Kart World isn't the only concern; other titles such as The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, part of the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition lineup, also carry the $79.99 price point.
Nintendo has also faced criticism for charging for the Switch 2 tutorial game, Welcome Tour, which many fans argue should be provided free of charge. This sentiment is often compared to Astro's Playroom, which comes pre-installed on every PlayStation 5 and serves as a complimentary tech demo for the DualSense controller.
The Nintendo Switch 2 package includes:
- Nintendo Switch 2 console
- Joy-Con 2 controllers (L+R)
- Joy-Con 2 Grip
- Joy-Con 2 Straps
- Nintendo Switch 2 Dock
- Ultra High-Speed HDMI Cable
- Nintendo Switch 2 AC Adapter
- USB-C Charging Cable
The backlash over pricing is now spilling into the Treehouse livestream, where the presenters have largely ignored the chat, perhaps understandably given the intensity of the comments. It's likely that Nintendo will continue to face similar feedback from the gaming community, increasing pressure on the company to address these pricing concerns.
For a deeper understanding of the situation, take a look at IGN's article detailing what the experts have to say about Nintendo’s Switch 2 and Mario Kart World pricing.
Additionally, don't miss out on all the news announced during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct.
