Nintendo's inaugural post-Switch 2 Nintendo Direct Treehouse livestream has been inundated with frustrated comments from users demanding that the company "DROP THE PRICE." A quick look at the YouTube chat for the stream reveals a wave of discontent regarding the pricing of Nintendo's transition to the next-generation, which includes the $449.99 Switch 2 and, perhaps most controversially, the $79.99 price tag on Mario Kart World.
While the Nintendo Switch 2 system itself will retail for $449.99, a bundle is also available that includes Mario Kart World for $499.99, offering a $30 savings on the game's standalone price.
But Mario Kart World isn't the only game on the Switch 2 to carry the $79.99 price; other titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom also share this price point. Nintendo has faced criticism for charging for the Switch 2's tutorial game, Welcome Tour, which many fans believe should be a free inclusion. For comparison, Astro's Playroom comes pre-installed on every PlayStation 5, serving as a complimentary tech demo for the DualSense controller.
The Nintendo Switch 2 package includes:
- Nintendo Switch 2 console
- Joy-Con 2 controllers (L+R)
- Joy-Con 2 Grip
- Joy-Con 2 Straps
- Nintendo Switch 2 Dock
- Ultra High-Speed HDMI Cable
- Nintendo Switch 2 AC Adapter
- USB-C Charging Cable
The backlash against Nintendo's pricing strategy has now overflowed into the Treehouse livestream, although the presenters have so far chosen to ignore the chat. It appears that Nintendo will continue to face pressure from the gaming community to address these pricing concerns.
For further insight, check out IGN's article discussing what experts think about the pricing of Nintendo’s Switch 2 and Mario Kart World. Additionally, don't miss out on all the news announced during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct.
