Nintendo's Switch 2 Tutorial Game Sparks Outrage Over Fees

Nintendo has sparked controversy with its decision to charge for the "Welcome Tour," the tutorial game designed to help users familiarize themselves with the new Nintendo Switch 2. Priced at ¥990 yen in Japan, translating to around $6.76, this game offers a virtual exhibition of the console, featuring mini-games like Speed Golf and Dodge the Spiked Balls. Gamers have expressed their frustration over paying for what they perceive as a basic tech demo, especially when compared to similar offerings from competitors like Sony. Many fans are comparing it to games like Astro's Playroom, which are included for free with consoles, questioning the rationale behind Nintendo's pricing strategy amid the already considerable $449.99 cost of the Switch 2.

Why is Nintendo charging for the Welcome Tour tutorial game? nNintendo is charging for the Welcome Tour tutorial game to provide a guided introduction to the Switch 2 and its features, though many fans feel it should have been a free inclusion similar to other console pack-ins.n

The Nintendo Switch 2 is the much-anticipated successor to the original Switch, which was released in 2017 and became a massive success due to its hybrid design allowing both handheld and home gaming experiences. With the new hardware, Nintendo aims to enhance gameplay with upgraded graphics and increased performance capabilities. The Welcome Tour game seeks to showcase these improvements, even as gamers express skepticism about its monetization. This launch is critical for Nintendo, as they attempt to compete against leading consoles such as the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X.