Video game retailer GameStop has announced it will be canceling fraudulent Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders made by bots and duplicate accounts. The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders launched in the US on April 24, creating massive online demand and technical challenges for retailers.

The initial wave of Switch 2 pre-orders caused significant issues for eager customers. Major retailers including Walmart, Target, and Best Buy experienced website crashes and technical difficulties due to overwhelming traffic. While some fortunate gamers secured their pre-orders online, many turned to GameStop as an alternative option.

While Walmart, Target, and Best Buy launched their Switch 2 pre-orders at midnight ET on April 24, GameStop waited until 11am ET. Despite the later start time, GameStop's systems also struggled under the heavy load, with pre-orders appearing to sell out immediately. Customers who visited physical GameStop locations in person reportedly had better success, though early arrival was essential to secure a console. Currently, all major retailers show Switch 2 pre-orders as sold out, but GameStop's new initiative offers renewed hope.

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As GameSpot identifies and cancels bot-generated and duplicate orders, the retailer will gradually reopen inventory. This process creates potential opportunities for legitimate customers to pre-order a Switch 2 from GameStop before the console's June 5 launch date. GameStop also recommends checking with local stores for possible pre-order availability.

The Nintendo Switch 2 has faced unprecedented demand since its announcement. Nintendo has publicly apologized for being unable to fulfill all requests from fans who registered for direct purchase invitations. Historical trends suggest the Switch 2 will remain difficult to find both at launch and potentially through the holiday season.

This situation will undoubtedly disappoint many fans unable to secure pre-orders or purchase consoles on launch day. The Switch 2 launches with five exclusive titles, including Mario Kart World, while major releases like Donkey Kong Bananza and Kirby Air Riders are scheduled for later in 2025. Backward compatibility with enhanced performance for Switch 1 games, including upcoming titles like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokemon Legends: Z-A, adds to the console's appeal. Nintendo faces significant pressure to increase production and meet the extraordinary demand for its next-generation system.