Nintendo Strategizes to Combat Scalpers Ahead of Switch 2 Release

It seems that managing scalpers is prevalent in the industry these days, particularly with the new online gaming consoles. However, Nintendo’s president, Shuntaro Furukawa, has stated that the company is working on strategies to prevent others from reselling the Switch 2.

In a discussion with Nikkei (translated by VGC), Furukawa remarked: “We will implement every possible option based on the knowledge we have gathered so far regarding scalpers and similar issues. We are getting ready.”

It was previously reported back in July last year that Furukawa had mentioned the company would simply ensure they produced sufficient units so scalpers wouldn’t even have the opportunity to overprice consumers.

This seems like a smart approach. If consumers are unable to play Switch 2 titles, they likely won’t sell well, and all the resources invested in advertising these games may end up being squandered. It also means that scalpers cannot acquire stocks and inflate prices for genuine fans who are eager to enjoy Mario Kart 9 and whatever else is set to be released on the console.

CEO and expert Dr. Serkan Toto from the Japanese gaming consultancy Kantan Games anticipates that the Switch 2 might sell between 14 million and 20 million units in its first year alone, which is why it’s prudent for Nintendo to prepare to make sure these units reach fans. The exact details have yet to be disclosed, but after the tumultuous experience of trying to obtain a PS5 (scalpers even targeted the disc drive when the PS5 Pro launched), I’m genuinely pleased that a strategy is now in place.

If you’re eager to learn more about the forthcoming console, you might have to wait until the Nintendo Switch 2 Presentation in April.