Nintendo Temporarily Halts Sales of International Switch 2 Model in Japan

Nintendo has temporarily suspended sales of the multilingual version of the Nintendo Switch 2 in Japan due to concerns about hoarding for resale. This action, implemented on June 12, 2026, aims to ensure that legitimate customers have better access to the console. In Japan, two versions of the Nintendo Switch 2 are available: a domestic-only model and a multilingual version. The domestic model supports only Japanese language and is sold at general retailers. In contrast, the multilingual version functions like models sold internationally, offering language and region selection. This version is exclusively available through Nintendo's official online store, comes at a higher price point, and has historically been difficult for foreign buyers to acquire. The domestic Japanese Switch 2 version recently saw a price increase from 49,980 yen (approximately $310 USD) to 59,980 yen (approximately $375 USD). The multilingual version, however, has maintained its price at around 69,980 yen (approximately $435 USD). Nintendo stated, "We have temporarily suspended sales of the Nintendo Switch 2 (Multilingual Support) at the Nintendo Store following confirmation of multiple orders that appeared to be for stockpiling."

A significant factor contributing to hoarding speculation is the current exchange rate of the Japanese yen, making the Japanese multilingual version cheaper than models sold in other countries. This price difference is approximately $65 less than the American version and about $124 less expensive than the European version, equating to roughly $375. Importers and speculators are drawn to this price advantage, which is expected to widen further starting September 1st, when prices for the Switch 2 will increase in the US (from $449 to $499) and Europe (to $499). This situation prompted Nintendo to take action to prioritize Japanese consumers. To address the issue and allow for wider customer distribution, Nintendo will now sell the multilingual Switch 2 only to customers who meet specific conditions. Buyers must have accumulated at least 50 hours of gameplay on a Nintendo Switch console linked to a Japanese account by May 31st. Furthermore, each Nintendo Account is limited to purchasing only one unit, including any previous purchases. This playtime requirement does not apply to hours accumulated on demo or free software.

Temporary Nintendo Switch 2 Sales Restriction in Japan for International Model with New Limitations

The suspension is temporary, and Nintendo intends to reopen sales with these new restrictions in place. The domestic version of the console continues to be sold normally at Japanese retailers.

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