Switch 2 Nears as Nintendo Alerts Retailers to Stock Shortages

Nintendo has reportedly started distributing "Out of Stock" signage for the Switch 2 to retailers even before the console officially launches.

The Switch 2 is scheduled to release in just two days — on Thursday, June 5 — and Nintendo anticipates demand will quickly exceed available supply.

As shared on Reddit, official Switch 2 "Out of Stock" signs are now appearing in U.S. stores, alongside regular promotional materials for the console and its launch title, Mario Kart World. A Reddit user who works at a store planning a midnight launch event posted, "We received these signs from Nintendo. They have a sense of humor."

Nintendo has already cautioned about limited Switch 2 availability, especially in Japan where consumer demand is overwhelming. In the U.S., the company is addressing potential tariff uncertainties by prioritizing consoles manufactured in Vietnam instead of China.

Still, nearly every major console faces stock shortages at launch, and securing a Switch 2 pre-order has already proven difficult for many. In short, it seems almost inevitable that the Switch 2 will sell out quickly.

Nintendo’s "Out of Stock" signs serve a practical purpose, helping store staff manage the constant stream of customers asking if any consoles are still available.

One user responded, "Every retail employee knows they'll face multiple customers a week who stand in front of that sign and demand they check 'the back,' as if the stockroom were a magical land full of electronics."

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At the same time, labeling an item as out of stock can be a strategic way to highlight its popularity and high demand. Essentially, it serves as effective marketing.

Another fan commented, "This is a clever advertising tactic. It signals high demand and makes people feel like they need to act fast to get one."

Leading up to the Switch 2 launch, Nintendo has rolled out updates for the original Switch and the popular game Animal Crossing: New Horizons to ensure compatibility with the new hardware. We also got a glimpse last night of the enhanced Pokémon Scarlet and Violet running on the Switch 2.

If you're among the lucky few to snag a Switch 2 this week, Nintendo recently shared important guidance about not removing the protective plastic film on the console's screen.