Nintendo Switch 2: new purchase requirements to combat scalping
Intelligence Summary
- See how Nintendo is changing Switch 2 sales in Japan with new anti-scalping rules, including a playtime requirement.
In short
- Nintendo has introduced a new purchase requirement for the Switch 2 in Japan, requiring at least 50 hours of playtime on the original Switch.
- The measure follows a temporary suspension of sales due to suspicious orders in June 2026.
- The goal of the new rules is to combat scalping and make sure real players get a chance to buy the console.
GAME-scanner analysis
Nintendo has recently taken a major step in the fight against scalpers by introducing a playtime requirement for buying the Switch 2 in Japan. This policy is a response to growing concerns about scalping, where consoles are bought up and later resold at a profit. The 50-hour playtime requirement is an innovative way to ensure that only genuine players have the chance to purchase the new console. The policy was introduced after sales of the multilingual Switch 2 models were temporarily halted, showing that Nintendo is acting proactively to protect the integrity of its sales process.
What does this mean for players?
For gamers in Japan, this new rule means they will need to keep track of their playtime on the original Switch to qualify for the Switch 2. This could improve console availability for real fans, but it may also be frustrating for new players who have not yet spent enough time with the original Switch. It is an interesting approach from Nintendo to reward customer loyalty while keeping scalpers out.
Timeline
13 June 2026: Nintendo announces that sales of the multilingual Switch 2 models have been temporarily suspended due to suspicious orders.
Mid-June 2026: The new 50-hour playtime requirement is introduced to combat scalping.
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Sources
Tweet van @NintendoTweet van @NintendoSales of the multilingual Switch 2 model in Japan were temporarily paused in mid-June 2026 after Nintendo flagged some suspicious ordering behavior consistent with scalping practices. "Multiple orders suspected of hoarding or similar activities" were identified, a company representative said in a prepared statement . The circumstances prompted Nintendo to resume sales with a new requirement: proof of gaming. Namely, prospective Switch 2 buyers in Japan can now only place an order if they have at