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The anticipation for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 is palpable as players are ready to get their hands on the next-gen console. However, as always, it’s likely the launch will turn into a nightmare due to the interference of scalpers. Everyone knows the drill now: a shiny new gadget hits the shelves, resellers swoop in, snatch up all the stock, and proceed to jack up prices to ridiculous levels.
This heinous practice has plagued the launches of many major consoles. Recently, Sony learned this the hard way with the PS5, but now it’s Nintendo’s turn, and it looks like the company is preparing itself for this exact situation before the launch of the Switch 2. It seems determined to make sure that scalpers don’t ruin the experience for gamers.
Nintendo Preparing A Plan to Counter Scalpers
In a shareholdermeeting, Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa addressed the issue of scalping head-on. He acknowledged that the problem has affected past console launches. However, unlike Sony, it looks like Furukawa is taking a very proactive approach to handling the problem with the Switch 2 launch.
Furukawa explained that the company’s main strategy to combat scalping is to ensure that the production of the console is high enough to meet consumer demand from day one. The idea is simple: if there are enough units available at retail stores, gamers won’t need to turn to scalpers.
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He further emphasized that the company is even considering taking region-specific countermeasures to tackle this issue. This is a brilliant idea, as scalping is often more prevalent in areas where, due to supply chain issues or excessive demand, sellers can’t meet customer demand and consumers have to turn to scalpers.
So, Nintendo’s plan to adapt to tackling this issue on a regional basis is very ideal and should be able to mitigate some of the scalping problems. By focusing on meeting demand at retail and controlling the flow of consoles, the company wants to ensure that resellers simply won’t have the opportunity tocapitalize on shortages as they did with the PS5.
Is This a Good Plan? Will It Actually Work?
On the surface, Nintendo’s approach to eliminating scalpers seems very logical. After all, if there are enough consoles available for consumers to buy at normal retail prices, then scalpers will be less inclined to hoard them and sell them at ridiculous prices (if they even have any stock).
In the shareholder meeting, Furukawa also reassured that the semiconductor shortage, which plagued the previous console’s production, has been resolved. This means that the company will be able to produce a large stock of units to avoid supply chain issues.
However, the real challenge lies in the demand for the Switch 2. With the huge success of the original Switch, there’s no doubt thatthe next iteration of the console is expected to be in high demand. If the company underestimates just how popular the Switch 2 will be, it risks facing the same issue as the PS5 (lack of units).
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Moreover, scalpers have shown, time and time again, their ability to adapt to market conditions. They are even using bots and other tactics to secure a large number of units the moment they go live, making it difficult for regular consumers to get one. These savvy resellers always find ways to profit.
In the end, this approach is certainly looking commendable, but the road ahead is filled with many obstacles. However, If the company gets it right, it could set a new standard for how console launches should be handled.
Do you think this strategy will work, or will scalpers find other ways to make a profit? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section below.
Shubham Chaurasia
Gaming Writer
Articles Published :1368
At FandomWire, Shubham has spent over a year diving into the evolving world of live-service, action, and open-world games. Whether it’s the democratic galaxy of Helldivers 2 or finishing enemies in titles like Assassin’s Creed or Ghost of Tsushima, Shubham brings a sharp eye and genuine enthusiasm to everything he writes.When he’s not writing, you’ll probably catch him clutching rounds in Valorant or leaping off virtual cliffs into a pile of enemies for the perfect finisher. Outside of gaming, Shubham recharges by hitting the gym or heading out on long, spontaneous bike rides, always chasing the next open road. No matter the game or the gear, he’s always committed to bringing readers timely, accurate, and engaging updates from across the gaming industry.
