Nintendo Adjusts Pricing: Original Switch, Games, and More to See Changes in Canada
Nintendo is making some big changes in Canada. Starting soon, the price of the original Nintendo Switch will go up. Some popular games and accessories may also cost more. This move has caught the attention of gamers across the country, and for good reason.
We all know Nintendo is one of the most loved gaming companies worldwide. For years, the Switch has been a top choice for casual players and serious fans alike. But with rising costs and changes in the global market, Nintendo says it’s time to adjust.
What impact will this have on everyday players like us? If you’re thinking about buying a console or new games, it could impact your wallet.
We’ll study what’s changing, why it’s happening, and how you can respond. Let’s get started.
What’s Changing?
A. Hardware Price Adjustments
- The original Nintendo Switch in Canada, currently priced at CA$400, will increase; specific details to be released by August 1 on Nintendo Canada’s site.
- The Switch OLED (CA$450) and Switch Lite (CA$269) are also included in this pricing change.
- Nintendo clarified that the upcoming Switch 2 console and its accessories are not affected by this change.
B. Game Price Revisions
- Physical and digital games will see price changes, too. This covers first-party titles and third-party ones sold for the Switch.
- Even Nintendo Switch Online subscriptions and amiibo collectibles will see adjusted pricing in Canada.
Reasons Behind the Move
A. Economic Factors
- Nintendo cites “market conditions” as the reason for the change.
- Recent Canadian dollar fluctuations, inflation, and higher supply chain costs have likely contributed.
- Global tariffs from the U.S. administration, especially on electronics imported from China and Vietnam, have raised costs for companies like Nintendo.
B. Market Strategy
Raising prices on older models may help Nintendo position the Switch 2, which launched in June 2025. By making older consoles more expensive, the newer model appears to offer more value.
Gamers online think it’s part of Nintendo’s bigger strategy: keep profits steady while rolling out new tech.
Impact on Consumers
A. Gamers’ Reactions
- Canadian gamers are surprised to see price hikes on older hardware, especially since it’s generally cheapest to produce
- There are concerns about gamers being pushed toward the newer, pricier Switch 2, despite older devices still being fully usable.
B. Families and Parents
- Parents planning consoles or games for birthdays and holidays now face a tighter budget.
- An older Switch costs roughly CA$40000, and key games can cost CA$80+ after tax.
- Price hikes on online subscriptions and amiibo, often used as gifts, will also impact household spending.
Comparison with Competitors
- Microsoft recently raised Xbox pricing globally. The Series S rose by US$80 and the Series X by US$100; Canada saw accessories and games also increase.
- Sony’s PS5 also got price bumps in markets like Europe and Australia, citing inflation and exchange rates.
- In this context, Nintendo’s moves align with broader industry trends; it’s reacting to the same economic and trade pressures.
What This Means Going Forward
A. Preparing for the Next Generation
Nintendo is laying the groundwork for the Switch 2 era. On June 5, 2025, Nintendo rolled out its new console, set at a price of $449.99 in the U.S.By raising the regular Switch’s price now, Nintendo is subtly making the new version seem more attractive value-wise.
It’s interesting to note that preorder delays in Canada came amid global trade issues, likely tied to tariff concerns, showing how carefully Nintendo is managing this rollout.
B. Signs of Future Promotions and Deals
While prices are rising, Nintendo might soften the impact with bundles or discount labels. In the past, they’ve used the “Nintendo Selects” line to reissue popular games at lower prices.
They haven’t launched Nintendo Selects for Switch yet, but summer sales and holiday bundles could offer good value. We’ve already seen deals on older games like Mario + Rabbids or Persona 5 Royal as part of seasonal promotions.
Conclusion
Nintendo Canada’s price increases reflect a changing world. Rising costs, trade tensions, and planning for the Switch 2 all play a role. For Canadian gamers and families, this means planning purchases more carefully. If you’re eyeing an older Switch or games, buying before August 1 could save you some cash. And if you’ve been holding out for the Switch 2, these changes might make it a smarter long-term choice.
FAQS:
The Nintendo Switch is fun because you can play it at home or on the go. It has many cool games for kids, families, and serious gamers.
It depends on the game sizes and your storage. A Switch with 32GB of memory holds around 5–10 games. You can add a memory card for more space.
Go to the Home screen, select the game, press the “+” button, and choose “Manage Software.” Then tap “Delete Software” to remove the game safely.
Disclaimer:
This content is for informational purposes only and not financial advice. Always conduct your research.