Nintendo says Switch 2 pre-orders in Canada "will not start on April 9, 2025 in order to align with the timing of pre-orders to be determined in the US

Nintendo fans in Canada eager to secure the highly anticipated Switch 2 will have to wait a little longer. In a recent statement, Nintendo confirmed that pre-orders for the Switch 2 will not begin on April 9, 2025, in Canada. The decision was made to ensure synchronization with the pre-order schedule in the United States, which is still being finalized.

This update comes after weeks of speculation and leaks regarding the next-generation Nintendo console, which has been rumored to feature significant hardware upgrades, new gameplay capabilities, and improved backward compatibility. While excitement continues to grow, Nintendo is taking a careful and calculated approach to the launch rollout—especially when it comes to managing expectations and demand across North America.

A Strategic Delay

In its official announcement, Nintendo of Canada emphasized the importance of maintaining consistency across markets:

“To ensure a coordinated launch experience for our North American fans, pre-orders in Canada will not begin on April 9, 2025, as previously rumored. The timing of Canadian pre-orders will align with the U.S. rollout once those details are finalized.”

This move is likely an effort to avoid past pitfalls, where staggered pre-order dates led to confusion, scalper activity, and customer frustration. By unifying the pre-order timeline, Nintendo can better control inventory distribution, marketing messaging, and retail coordination.

What We Know So Far About the Switch 2

While Nintendo has remained tight-lipped about the official name and specs, several credible leaks and industry analysts suggest that the Switch 2 (unofficial name) will include:

• A more powerful custom Nvidia chip for enhanced graphics

• Improved screen resolution, potentially OLED by default

• Upgraded Joy-Cons with magnetic attachment

• Backward compatibility with Nintendo Switch titles

• Improved battery life and load times

If these specs prove accurate, the Switch 2 could mark Nintendo’s most significant console upgrade since the original Switch launched in 2017.

Fan Reactions Are Mixed

Reactions from Canadian fans have been mixed. While many understand Nintendo’s intent to keep the launch unified and well-organized, others expressed frustration over the lack of clarity and delays.

“I just want to give them my money already,” joked one user on Reddit. “Why can’t they just take my pre-order and ship it later?”

Some retailers in Canada had reportedly begun preparing for an April 9 pre-order window, further fueling confusion. Nintendo’s recent clarification aims to calm that chatter and prevent premature activity among retailers and consumers alike.

What’s Next?

As of now, no official U.S. pre-order date has been announced, but insiders suggest it could be revealed during an upcoming Nintendo Direct event rumored for late April or early May. Until then, fans are encouraged to stay tuned to Nintendo’s official channels for updates.

For now, Canadian gamers will need to sit tight—but if Nintendo’s plan holds, this careful coordination could make the Switch 2 launch one of the smoothest (and most exciting) in recent memory.