Pre-Order Date and Time Announced for Nintendo Switch 2 at Walmart

If you’re eager to get your hands on the Nintendo Switch 2, prepare for a bit of a midnight adventure. Pre-orders for this highly anticipated console will kick off at Walmart on April 24 at precisely 12 a.m. ET. It’s the same timing as Target, so you might want to have both websites ready to go. Given the high demand and the fact that these units will hit the shelves officially on June 5, a pre-order is a wise move if you want to ensure you don’t miss out.

Originally, the pre-order frenzy was set to start earlier in the month, but adjustments were made due to Trump’s tariffs. Most major retailers have now announced their game plan, so fans know when to jump online and claim their consoles. At Walmart, you’ll need to be vigilant as the online pre-orders go live, and it’s unclear if their physical stores will handle any pre-orders.

Having a strategic plan is key. Open tabs for both Walmart and Target could save the day if one site stumbles under heavy traffic. Of course, be prepared for glitches on both fronts, given the demand. Fortunately, Walmart and Target aren’t playing solo—GameStop is also joining the pre-order event later that day at 11 a.m. ET, with options for in-store reservations at opening time.

If you’re eyeing GameStop, a call ahead to pinpoint their opening hours might save you a wasted trip. What’s more, both GameStop and Best Buy are planning midnight launch events, so if you pre-order, you can start gaming the moment June 5 arrives.

When it comes to options, the standard Nintendo Switch 2 package is tagged at $449.99. But there’s a bit of a sweet deal with the Mario Kart World bundle, priced at $499.99. This might catch the attention of Mario Kart enthusiasts, as it effectively offers a $30 saving off the standalone game.

With the launch excitement building, knowing these details keeps you in the loop and gives you the best shot at securing the newest console from Nintendo.