The Reason Behind Nintendo Switch 2's Steep Game Prices, Explained by Analysts

The recent unveiling of the Nintendo Switch 2 has brought to light a significant increase in game prices, with flagship title Mario Kart World costing $80 in the US. This surge in prices can be attributed to various factors, including inflation and the company's approach to pricing. Analysts believe that Nintendo has taken this opportunity to raise prices across the board, considering the current state of the industry and the success of their previous titles. The price hike may also be a result of the company's relatively conservative approach to microtransactions and DLC. With the Switch 2's launch on June 5, 2025, gamers can expect to pay more for games, but analysts predict that fans will eventually adjust to the new prices. The pricing strategy may have a significant impact on the gaming market, potentially leading to a shift towards free-to-play and live service games, as well as an acceleration in the decline of physical software sales.