Canadian Switch Owners Could See Prices Rise Before Switch 2 Launch

Let’s be real: when a new console arrives, veteran gamers line up for discounts on the outgoing model. So when whispers surfaced that the original Nintendo Switch might increase in price in Canada just as the Switch 2 nears launch, I had to investigate. After all, nothing stings more than paying extra for eight-year-old hardware with Joy-Con drift on the side.

Why the Buzz Over a Price Hike?

Nintendo hasn’t flat-out announced a price increase, but its vague alerts about upcoming “changes” don’t exactly promise markdowns. Reports suggest adjustments could affect not only the Switch console but also games, online subscriptions and Amiibo. Canadian gamers may end up facing sticker shock instead of clearance deals.

Economic Forces at Play

A few key pressures could be driving this:

• Inflation: Canada’s recent inflation rate has pushed up manufacturing and logistics costs.
• Currency swings: A weaker Canadian dollar makes imported hardware pricier once converted.
• Global supply chains: Trade policy shifts and higher shipping fees have prompted many companies to pass costs on to consumers.

Industry Trends: More Than Just Nintendo

This isn’t unique to Nintendo. Sony and Microsoft have quietly raised prices on older hardware and digital libraries when logistical expenses surged. Market observers note mid-generation price tweaks have become more common as publishers try to balance profit margins with sustained demand for legacy consoles.

What Should Gamers Do Now?

If you’ve been holding out for a late-cycle Switch deal, consider these steps:

• Track promotions: Retailers may offer one-off sales before any official hike takes effect.
• Explore pre-owned options: Refurbished and used markets often dodge manufacturer price changes.
• Mark your calendar: Nintendo’s August 1 announcement should confirm the final price adjustments.

Looking Ahead: Switch 2 and Beyond

If Nintendo succeeds in squeezing more revenue from the original Switch cycle, it could shape pricing strategies for the Switch 2 launch. Early adopters might face premium tags, and late-cycle bargains could become a relic of the past.

TL;DR

Discounts on the original Switch in Canada may be vanishing. With a possible price hike looming, the usual end-of-cycle bargains aren’t guaranteed. If you’ve been waiting for a deal, now’s the time to act—before August 1 brings official confirmation.

Feature	Specification
Publisher	Nintendo
Release Date	March 3, 2017
Genres	Console Hardware
Platforms	Nintendo Switch (Standard, OLED, Lite), expected Switch 2