The Nintendo Switch 2 – one of the year’s most anticipated gaming consoles – is set to launch on June 5, 2025. Yet in the latest Nintendo Switch 2 news, several major retailers have abruptly cancelled pre-orders mere days before release, leaving fans shocked and scrambling. Reports from multiple sources indicate that Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders are being cancelled without warning by big retailers in both the US and UK. This unexpected setback has raised concerns about Switch 2 release plans, availability on launch day, and whether this hiccup signals broader gaming console delays or stock shortages. Below, we’ll break down which retailers cancelled orders, possible reasons behind the cancellations, how the gaming community is reacting, the impact on launch expectations, and tips for gamers on what to do next if you’ve been affected.

Major Retailers Cancelling Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders

Multiple retail giants have reportedly canceled some customers’ Switch 2 pre-orders in recent days. If you have a Switch 2 pre-order, it might be a good idea to double-check its status – just in case. Here’s a summary of the retailers involved and what we know so far:

• Walmart (US): Numerous customers have reported sudden cancellations of their Switch 2 pre-orders at Walmart. Walmart appears to be a major offender – many of the complaints point to Walmart overselling its allotment or having payment-processing glitches. In fact, anecdotal evidence suggests Walmart’s system may have had trouble with orders placed via the Affirm financing option. Some buyers who thought they secured a launch-day console from Walmart logged in to find their order marked “Canceled” without explanation.

• Target (US): Target is another retailer named in these reports. Some Target customers said their Switch 2 pre-orders were canceled without warning as well. In a few cases, buyers were able to contact Target’s customer support and get the order reinstated manually, but others weren’t so lucky. One person even received a confusing confirmation email after the cancellation notice, adding to the frustration.

• GameStop (US): Even GameStop hasn’t been immune. At least a few gamers have vented that GameStop “cancelled my order” unexpectedly. It’s unclear how widespread the GameStop cancellations are, but the reports suggest it’s not just one chain having issues – it’s multiple major outlets.

• GAME (UK): Across the Atlantic, UK retailer GAME (the country’s largest dedicated game store chain) confirmed it has canceled a number of Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders as well. The company hasn’t specified a reason publicly, but it did apologize to customers and said it’s working to reinstate as many orders as possible. “We sincerely apologise for the recent cancellation of some Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders… We’re currently working hard to reinstate as many affected pre-orders as possible,” the official GAME statement read. In the meantime, GAME directed affected customers to its support page for further assistance.

Other retailers not on this cancellation list (so far) include Amazon and Best Buy, which have not been widely reported to cancel pre-orders. In fact, Amazon UK recently opened up additional Switch 2 pre-orders after GAME’s issues, suggesting it still had stock available. Best Buy in the US also imposed strict one-per-customer rules during pre-orders to prevent overselling, which may have helped avoid the same fate. Still, if you pre-ordered elsewhere, it’s wise to keep an eye on your order status until your console is in hand.

Why Are Switch 2 Pre-Orders Being Cancelled?

With no detailed explanations coming from most retailers, gamers are left wondering why their Switch 2 pre-orders are getting axed at the last minute. So far, we only have unofficial hints and theories about the reasons behind these cancellations:

• Stock Allocation & Overselling: The most common theory is that retailers simply took more pre-orders than they can fulfill. In other words, demand overshot supply. Retailers like Walmart may have oversold their Switch 2 stock, and as launch day nears, they’re realizing they won’t receive enough units from Nintendo to cover all reservations. This would force them to cancel the excess orders. Industry watchers note that Walmart had a similar issue during the PlayStation 5 launch, where it accepted too many orders and had to cancel some – a fiasco that led some gamers to swear off Walmart for future console pre-orders. The Switch 2 might be seeing a comparable overbooking scenario, with retailers trimming orders down to match actual inventory.

• Payment and Technical Glitches: Another explanation is more technical. Some pre-orders are being canceled due to payment authorization failures or website errors. For example, many of the Walmart orders that got canceled were those paid through Affirm installment plans. It’s speculated that something about the Affirm payment processing caused Walmart’s system to drop those orders. Similarly, during the initial pre-order rush in April, both Target and Walmart’s sites struggled – some orders that initially “went through” were automatically canceled almost immediately due to system overloads and payment glitches. In those cases, the retailers’ online systems couldn’t keep up with the flood of orders, leading to false confirmations and subsequent cancellations. Now, weeks later, it’s possible some lingering payment issues (like expired credit cards, failed charges, or billing address mismatches) are triggering cancellations if the customer doesn’t fix them in time. Unfortunately, retailers haven’t been proactively contacting buyers for corrections in many instances – the order just gets canceled without warning.

• Unclear or No Official Reason Given: Notably, most retailers have not provided a public reason for the cancellations. GAME in the UK acknowledged the issue but only in vague terms, saying they understand it’s disappointing and are trying to fix it. They did not explicitly say “we didn’t get enough consoles” or “there was a payment error,” leaving customers guessing. In the absence of clear answers, the overselling theory remains the general consensus among the community. In short, retailers likely don’t have enough Switch 2 units on hand to fulfill every pre-order, whether due to supply shortages from Nintendo or mismanagement of their online ordering systems.

It’s worth mentioning that Nintendo itself has hinted at the incredible demand for the new system. Nintendo updated its website with a notice that delivery by launch day is “not guaranteed” for all pre-orders due to very high demand. This message was aimed at customers ordering through Nintendo’s own online store, but it underscores the fact that supply is tight. In Canada, reports even surfaced that Switch 2 pre-orders were delayed, suggesting some regions won’t get their consoles on June 5. So while the console’s release date isn’t officially pushed back, limited launch stock is a reality – which likely set the stage for these retailer cancellations. In other words, we’re not seeing a full-blown gaming console delay of the Switch 2, but we are seeing the kind of supply crunch and logistical snafus that often accompany big hardware launches.

Gaming Community Reactions: From Frustration to Panic

News of these pre-order cancellations has spread like wildfire across gaming forums and social media, provoking strong reactions from the community. For many, a pre-order was supposed to be a guarantee of a console on day one – so the sudden cancellations feel like a betrayal, and gamers aren’t shy about voicing their anger.

The Switch community has been flooded with posts from disappointed fans sharing cancellation screenshots and warning others to check their orders. “So depressing, I thought I was good… Checked on my pre-order once a day, and just bam,” wrote one user after discovering their Walmart order had been canceled without any email notice. Others chimed in with similar stories, creating a domino effect of anxiety. Some are now compulsively re-checking their order status every day (or every hour!) to make sure it hasn’t quietly disappeared.

Several users have vented their frustration at specific retailers. Walmart is receiving a lion’s share of complaints; some players even pre-emptively decided to avoid Walmart based on its past track record with console launches. Target also came under fire – one commenter mentioned, “Target cancelled mine as well without warning. Luckily I got a call from their corporate and got it re-ordered… hoping it doesn’t get cancelled again.” The sentiment of many is that retailers should at least notify customers of any payment issues or stock problems rather than axing orders in silence. “Even if it is a payment issue, why can’t they just email and give 24 hours to fix it?” one fan lamented, echoing a widely shared frustration.

Gamers have been tagging retailers on social media to demand answers. One customer tweeted at Walmart: “I ordered a Switch 2 and then my order was immediately canceled?!?” alongside a screenshot of their canceled order. Target received similar angry tweets, with users describing how they fought through website crashes to secure a preorder, only to have the confirmation yanked away moments later. The language in some posts is, unsurprisingly, not very polite – exasperation is high, given how eagerly players have been waiting for the new Switch.

Despite the anger, there’s also a sense of camaraderie among affected customers. On forums, people are consoling each other and sharing advice on next steps. For example, when someone shared that GameStop cancelled their order, others quickly suggested trying Best Buy’s midnight release or lining up in-store on launch day. In the UK, some users have reported that contacting GAME’s customer service might help restore a canceled order, since the retailer claims to be working on reinstating them. The community is effectively banding together to help everyone get a fair shot at a console, even as they vent about the situation.

Impact on Launch Day Expectations and Availability

All this chaos is naturally making gamers nervous about launch day availability. With pre-order customers – the most dedicated fans – getting cut from the list, what does it mean for the Switch 2’s release and the chances of snagging one on Day One?

For one, these cancellations suggest that launch stock may be more limited than expected. Retailers scaling back orders at the last minute implies they didn’t receive as many units as they hoped, or they discovered an inventory shortfall late in the game. This could translate into fewer consoles on shelves (both physical and virtual shelves) come release day. Gamers who thought they were guaranteed a console will now join the general pool of buyers vying for launch stock, potentially increasing competition for those units. We could see longer lines at stores and faster sell-outs online on June 5 as a result.

However, it’s not all doom and gloom. Despite the hiccups, the Switch 2 launch isn’t expected to be as catastrophic as the PS5 or Xbox Series X launches were a few years ago in terms of supply shortages. Nintendo has manufactured a substantial number of units, and while demand is huge, there have been indications of steady restocks. In fact, some retailers have already announced they will have additional Switch 2 stock on launch day for those who missed out on pre-orders. GameStop and Best Buy in the US confirmed they’ll be offering new Switch 2 units in-store and online during the console’s launch window. GameStop is even holding a special launch event at 3 PM local time on release day, with consoles available for walk-in purchase (as well as online, while supplies last). Best Buy stores in many regions are opening early or at midnight for pickup orders and a limited quantity of walk-in sales, according to employee reports. Meanwhile, Amazon in some countries has been doing brief restocks of Switch 2 pre-orders – so not all hope is lost if you act quickly.

From Nintendo’s perspective, the company has acknowledged the high demand but has not delayed the Switch 2’s release date. The launch is proceeding on June 5, 2025, worldwide. Nintendo has advised that due to demand, even some official My Nintendo Store orders might ship a bit late, but there’s no sign of a broad release delay. So, the impact on launch expectations is mainly that it might be tougher to get a console at launch if you’re not already secured – and even some who thought they were secured (via pre-order) might need a backup plan. If you had a pre-order canceled, consider June 5 essentially a first-come-first-served scenario for you now.

The situation has certainly tempered some excitement with anxiety. But the upside is that retailers appear to be preparing for the launch rush by organizing events and setting aside units for release day purchasers. The cancellation fiasco might actually give a slight advantage to those who didn’t pre-order – since extra units will be up for grabs. In any case, it’s wise for all prospective Switch 2 owners to stay informed and be ready to act on launch day.

What to Do if Your Switch 2 Pre-Order Was Cancelled: Tips for Gamers

If you’re one of the unfortunate gamers whose Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order was cancelled, don’t despair – you still have a chance to get your hands on the console. Here are some tips and next steps to consider:

1. Double-Check and Contact the Retailer: First, confirm that your order was truly canceled and not a mistake. Check your order status on the retailer’s website and look for any email notifications (sometimes those emails can land in spam folders). If it’s canceled, reach out to the retailer’s customer support immediately. In some cases, as with a few Target orders, customer service can help reinstate a canceled order if it was dropped due to a payment issue. Be polite but persistent – explain that you had a valid pre-order that was unexpectedly canceled and ask if there’s any way to restore it or if any stock might free up. Even if the chance is slim, it’s worth a try.

2. Ensure Your Payment Details Are Up to Date: One proactive step for everyone with a pre-order (or trying to place a new one) is to verify your payment information. Many orders were voided because the charge didn’t go through – for instance, if you used a financing option like Affirm or if your credit card on file expired or was flagged. Make sure your credit/debit card has sufficient funds and correct billing info, and that any third-party payment accounts are in good standing. This can prevent your order from being canceled due to a charge failure at the time the retailer processes payments before shipment.

3. Watch for Official Updates or Re-Opened Orders: Stay tuned to official channels for any updates. Retailers might communicate through email or social media if they manage to secure more stock. For example, GAME in the UK has stated it’s “doing everything we can” to reinstate orders and will be in touch with further updates. Some UK customers have reported receiving a second chance to pre-order through GAME after the initial cancellation. So, it’s possible you could get an email offering you a spot if more units become available. Keep an eye on your inbox and the retailer’s Twitter/Facebook pages for any such announcements.

4. Plan to Try Again on Launch Day: If reinstating the order isn’t an option, treat the situation as if you never had a pre-order. That means launch day (June 5) is your next big opportunity. Plan ahead and be ready to act:

   • Identify which stores are selling on launch day: Many retailers will release extra units on release date. As mentioned, GameStop and Best Buy will have in-store and online stock during launch. Find out your local stores’ opening hours or any special midnight launches. Some stores may hand out tickets or form lines early for walk-ins.

   • Online tactics: If you plan to try online, make sure you’re logged into your account on sites like Best Buy, Target, Amazon, etc., ahead of time with payment and shipping info saved. Restocks can sell out in minutes (or seconds), so speed is key. Follow Twitter accounts or Discord channels that track console restock alerts – they can tip you off the moment new stock appears online.

   • Consider smaller or alternative retailers: Don’t forget about retailers that might not have taken pre-orders but will sell on launch day. For instance, in the UK, apart from GAME, other stores like Smyths Toys or Argos might have limited stock at launch. In the US, consider checking retailers like Walmart (despite the issues) on launch morning, or even warehouse clubs (Costco, Sam’s Club) which sometimes bundle consoles with accessories. Every option is worth a shot if you’re determined.

5. Be Prepared for the Hunt (and Be Safe): Mentally prepare for a bit of a scramble. If you plan to line up at a store, try to arrive early and be patient – you might not be alone, but camaraderie in the queue can make the experience more fun. Keep safety in mind too; don’t get into any Mario Kart-style races or scalper scuffles over the console. If you miss out on June 5, remember that this is just the launch – Nintendo will ship more Switch 2 units in the coming weeks. The Switch 2 isn’t a limited-time item, so you will get another chance. Set up stock alerts, keep checking retailers in the days after launch, and you’ll likely snag one soon.

6. Avoid Scalpers and Stay Patient: Finally, as tempting as it might be, try not to give in to scalpers or price gougers. The resale prices for Switch 2 consoles will likely skyrocket immediately after launch due to these shortages. But historically, those prices come down once more stock hits the market. Nintendo has every incentive to manufacture as many units as needed to meet demand. So, don’t panic-buy a console on eBay for double the price – patience can save you a lot of money. In the meantime, keep playing your current games and stay tuned to official Switch 2 release updates from Nintendo and retailers.