Japanese retailers limit Switch 2 sales before Japan price hike

Bic Camera has restricted sales of the Nintendo Switch 2 at its current price to customers who pay with a Bic Camera–branded credit card, while Yodobashi and other major retailers show the console as sold out. Nintendo has scheduled a price increase for the Japanese market in two weeks, and the Switch 2 is due to launch in Japan next Friday.

The payment restriction limits who can buy the console at the pre-increase price. Industry analyst Dr. Serkan Toto reported the policy and noted other stores may adopt similar payment conditions as they manage inventory ahead of the price change.

Yodobashi and Bic Camera listed the Switch 2 as sold out online and in some physical locations. Potential buyers have been checking other retailers and online channels for remaining stock. Earlier this year some stores used short, timed restocks for other high-demand products, with shipments and sales occurring over one- to two-day windows.

Dr. Serkan Toto reported: “Bic Camera started limiting sales at current prices to buyers paying with a Bic Camera-branded credit card only.”

Nintendo has confirmed the timing of the price increase in Japan but has not provided details on how large the adjustment will be. Consumers who want to avoid the higher price have a limited window to secure the Switch 2 at existing rates through specific retailers or payment methods.

Retailers reported strong pre-order demand in North America and high interest in Japan as customers seek to lock in current prices before the scheduled change.