Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders Mishandled by GameStop on Launch Day
Nintendo Switch 2 Preorder Fiasco at GameStop
Alas, it was a disastrous day for many trying to preorder the long-awaited Nintendo Switch 2. Retail giants like Walmart, Best Buy, and Target failed to deliver, leaving GameStop as the last hope for launch day preorders. Timed for 11 a.m. ET on April 24, the Nintendo Switch 2 preorders on GameStop's site and app collapsed under the deluge of overwhelming requests.
An avalanche of eager customers, some of whom were our Gizmodo staff members, were met with a Cloudflare error 502 for bad gateway. Currently, the handheld is listed as "Not Available" on the GameStop listing, displaying a grayed-out box.
However, I managed to sneak in and receive an order number for the console, although I've yet to receive confirmation. other buyers reported similar issues. GameStop later informed those without confirmations that they should receive one shortly. Subsequent confirmation that my order went through arrived in my inbox. Hopeful customers should check their inbox or accounts for confirmation emails.
When I reached out to GameStop for an update on the debacle, they failed to respond promptly. By this point, the Switch 2 appears to be out of stock online at most major retailers, with only in-store preorders remaining.
The GameStop app initially displayed an "Activity Paused" error with a note reading "We are having problems processing this request from the network you are currently on." As of Thursday afternoon, the app is back online for console-only models and the Mario Kart World bundle.
In an update, GameStop announced, "Nintendo Switch 2 preorders have sold out online. We will continue to squash bot and duplicate orders to reopen inventory."
There's a glimmer of hope for securing a Switch 2 on launch day through in-store preorders. Caution, though, as lines of anxious buyers stretched across the states. Some stores boast an impressive stockpile of up to 50 units or more. A few customers reported buying receipts after camping out early in the morning. However, we advise calling your local store first, rather than driving aimlessly in search of a console.
In Japan, Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa had to issue an apology after preorders in Nintendo's My Nintendo Store surpassed the launch units. Nintendo promises to send out emails on May 8 for users ordering directly from the company. Buyers should note that due to exceptional demand, delivery by June 5 is not guaranteed.
While the Switch 2 is listed as sold out at Best Buy, Target, and Walmart as of this writing, it might be time to relax and wait for reviews—and the console itself—after the June 5 launch. Some patience will also allow you to reflect on whether a new device is really a necessity in your life.
This is a developing story. We'll keep you updated as we gather more information.
Strategies for Missed Preorders:
- Midnight Launch Events: Sign up for GameStop's midnight launch events to be the first to get your hands on the console.
- Restock Notifications: Stay informed about potential restocks by registering for notifications on GameStop's mobile app or website.
- In-Store Availability: Contact local GameStop stores to inquire about in-store availability on launch day.
- Alternative Retailers: Monitor Walmart, Target, or Best Buy for potential restocks. Keeping your accounts updated with accurate shipping and billing information can streamline any future purchases.
- My Nintendo Store Invites: If you have a My Nintendo account, be on the lookout for invite-only preorders. These invitations are sent out to select accounts, offering another chance to secure a console.
- Disappointed consumers found themselves without a preorder for the Nintendo Switch 2 from GameStop, as the website and app crashed under the pressure of the overwhelming demand.
- GameStop announced that the Nintendo Switch 2 preorders have officially sold out online, but there's still hope for in-store preorders on launch day.
- Gizmodo staff members and tech enthusiasts alike were left disappointed with Cloudflare error 502 for bad gateway on GameStop's site and app during the preorder process for the Nintendo Switch 2.
- In an effort to ensure everyone has a fair chance at purchasing the Nintendo Switch 2, GameStop plans to squash bot and duplicate orders to reopen inventory.
- Some stores are reportedly stocking up to 50 units of the Nintendo Switch 2, but it's advised to call your local store first before driving in search of a console.
