With just two days left until the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, fans who preordered the highly anticipated handheld console are facing unexpected cancellations. Multiple reports have emerged from customers who preordered through major retailers like Target and Walmart, who are receiving notices that their orders have been cancelled.
The cancellations have left fans puzzled, with communications from the retailers suggesting the issues may stem from either a lack of available units or system errors. Frustration among customers is palpable, especially as these events unfold just a week ahead of the console’s launch.
Back in April, many eager gamers faced a myriad of issues during the initial preorder process, including malfunctioning websites and long wait times. Now, just days before the release, some feel their efforts have been in vain as they find their preorders annulled.
Reports on platforms like Reddit highlight various experiences from users who have had their orders canceled with little to no explanation. For instance, one user shared screenshots indicating their order was canceled on May 27, while others claimed that shipping delays from Target could push deliveries to June 10, five days after the official release date.
Walmart customers have reported similar woes, sharing details from conversations with customer support. Initially, one user was informed their order was cancelled due to “an issue with your card.” However, upon further inquiry, Walmart’s support revealed that the cancellation was due to a “large number of orders.”
Despite the wave of cancellations, some retailers have managed to maintain more stable preorder processes, with fewer complaints directed at Best Buy and GameStop. GameStop distinguished itself from the chaos, responding with a definitive “not us” to the earlier reports of cancellations, although some customers voiced their discontent with GameStop’s handling of orders as well.
Gizmodo reached out to Target to understand the reasons behind the cancellations but did not receive a response. A Walmart spokesperson later confirmed that “a small group of customers” has been affected by a system error, expressing their understanding of the excitement surrounding the new product launch and pledging to support those impacted.
In addition to addressing cancellations, customers have noticed a listing for a “Customer Reconciliation” Switch 2 unit on Walmart’s website. This may hint at Walmart’s strategy for rectifying the canceled orders. Some users have reportedly received emails declaring their order was cancelled due to a “system error,” and Walmart has assured that those who placed preorders should still expect delivery by 9 a.m. local time on June 5.
As the launch date approaches, Walmart plans to open its West Coast locations early on June 4, at 9 p.m. local time, where customers can attempt to purchase consoles in-store, while supplies last. Target, on the other hand, has asked customers to line up prior to the stores’ opening on June 5 for a chance to receive a physical or digital ticket for the console, adhering to a one-system limit per customer.
For those hoping to secure their handheld online, the wait for online orders will extend until June 6. Best Buy is preparing for a midnight release event and is enticing customers with a limited-edition commemorative coin that features a Switch 2 logo on one side and Best Buy’s emblem on the other.
GameStop will be holding its launch event, opening doors at 3 p.m. local time on June 4, but customers must wait until midnight to receive their consoles.
Beyond the major retailers, customers might consider alternative options, such as the office supply chain Staples, which promises to have units available in-store as early as June 5. Specific locations will have the consoles, but availability may vary, with a one-console limit per customer.
Given the current situation with canceled preorders, it may be prudent for consumers to temper their expectations and consider waiting for more stock to become available. Nintendo has indicated a commitment to ramping up production post-launch to meet the demand for the new Switch 2.
As excitement builds and frustrations surface, many fans remain hopeful that they will soon have their hands on the new console.
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