Nintendo is preparing to raise prices for certain products in Canada, with the most significant changes affecting the original Nintendo Switch models and Nintendo Switch Online subscriptions.
This price hike announcement, which was made just ahead of Canada’s July 1st celebrations, has left many fans wondering about the reasons behind the decision.
The price adjustments, set to be fully disclosed later today, will apply to the original Switch, Switch Lite, and Switch OLED models. Physical and digital games, along with accessories, will also be impacted, affecting those who own a Switch 2, as many of these products are cross-compatible with the newer console. In addition, Nintendo Switch Online subscriptions and amiibo figurines will see price hikes.
Despite the increase in prices for older models, Nintendo assured customers that the new Switch 2 would not be affected by the adjustment. The company’s decision to increase prices on these older products comes as no surprise, as the gaming industry, like many others, continues to grapple with the effects of ongoing US tariffs, which have raised prices for several companies worldwide.
While some fans understand that the cost of production is rising due to inflation and tariffs, others have pointed out the unfortunate timing of the announcement. Some feel that releasing this news on Canada Day, a national holiday, shows a lack of sensitivity towards consumers. Others suggest that Nintendo might be raising prices to avoid increasing the price of the Switch 2 right after its launch, as doing so could impact demand. Regardless, it’s clear that Nintendo’s pricing strategy is facing significant scrutiny.
In the midst of these price hikes, some users are finding a silver lining: the resale value of older Switch consoles has gone up, with some gamers seeing an opportunity to sell their original Switch models for higher prices than before the increase.