Nintendo tells customers in Japan to expect Switch 2 hardware shortage at launch

Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa has warned that demand for Switch 2 consoles has massively exceeded expectations in Japan and that some consumers will be unable to secure hardware at launch.

In a post on X (via Google Translate), Furukawa explained around 2.2 million people in Japan are attempting to secure a Switch 2 through the My Nintendo Store as part of a lottery process.

He noted the number of applicants has surpassed expectations and “far exceeds the number of Nintendo Switch 2 consoles that can be delivered from the My Nintendo Store [at launch] on June 5th.”

“Therefore, unfortunately, we expect that a significant number of customers will not be selected when the winners are announced tomorrow, April 24th,” added Furukawa.

Those who are unsuccessful during the first lottery won’t have to reapply and will instead be automatically entered into another lottery sale. Nintendo, however, has told customers there will still be some people who are unsuccessful during that second draw.

“Even including the quantity for the second lottery sale, we cannot fulfill all of the applications we received. We deeply apologize for not being able to meet your expectations despite our prior preparations,” continued Furukawa.

Nintendo said it is currently strengthening its production chain in response to burgeoning demand. Consumers can also attempt to secure a pre-order through a third-party retailer on April 24, 2025.

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The Switch 2 will continue to be sold on the My Nintendo Store post-launch, with Nintendo pledging to share more details about that process at a later date.

The Japanese company, however, is clearly bracing consumers for disappointment on launch day.

“With the cooperation of retailers, we will continue to ship the console and make efforts to get as many Nintendo Switch 2 consoles as possible into your hands,” said Furukawa.

“We plan to continue producing and shipping a considerable number of Nintendo Switch 2 units in the future. We apologize for the delay in our ability to meet your expectations, and we appreciate your understanding.”