The shelter in place orders around the U.S. is leading some to consider how to best spend their downtime. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic is leading to shortages in a lot of different retail items, including gaming consoles. We don’t know when the curve will flatten, or if we’ll see things calm down by May. Therefore, a lot of companies are bracing for inventory issues, including Nintendo. Read about the latest updates to the Coronavirus Nintendo Switch shortage, and find out where your best chance of finding one may be.
Is There a Coronavirus Nintendo Switch Shortage?
Image Credit: Nintendo
Like most companies, Nintendo is no longer running regular operations at its manufacturing plants. That means the influx of Nintendo Switch consoles expected by most retailers is going unfulfilled. While that doesn’t mean there are no more Switch consoles to buy, that does mean we are experiencing a shortage. There are a lot of more pressing matters, but it goes without saying that some are disappointed by the decrease in production. Health concerns take precedent, and the wellness of workers in factories should never come before consumer production.
It’s not just the United States either. As we know, the COVID-19 outbreak is affecting most countries around the world. A lot of areas of the world are reporting shortages of consoles. For online retailers like Amazon and eBay, that means one thing: scalpers. If you own a Nintendo Switch, then you can sell it on these sites for a profit. Right now, the price inflation on a Switch is averaging around $459.99. That price is over $150 higher than the MSRP listing of $299.99. Not to mention, the Switch Lite is cheaper and still selling nearly $100 over market value in the wake of the Coronavirus Nintendo Switch shortage.
Where Can I Find a Console During the Coronavirus Shortage?
Image Credit: Nintendo
From what I found on forums and discussions, the best bet still seems to be checking your local big-box retailers. If you shop online right now, then you’ll find a lot of those insane prices listed above. Places like Best Buy are doing curbside pickup for products ordered for in-store pickup. A lot of places that sell electronics are slowly running out, however, so that might pose problems. Another option, and a favorable one right now, is contacting a local independent games store.
Small businesses right now are fighting for their lives. Unlike major chains, local retail shops and restaurants make a living, not a major profit. Year after year, the major influxes of business around major product releases or special events help make their bottom line end in the positive. Right now, they don’t have the luxury of staying open due to COVID-19 concerns. If you realize the Coronavirus Nintendo Switch shortage depleted your local big-box store, then consider a local retailer. There’s never been a more important time to show some love to your local neighbor, friend, or family member who runs a store or restaurant.
Image Credit: Nintendo
If you have the console and don’t need to find one during these trying times, then be sure to check out the latest news from the March 26 Nintendo Direct mini!
Have you had trouble finding a console during the Coronavirus Nintendo Switch shortage? Let us know in the comments! Thanks for reading Comic Years for all things gaming, comics, and pop culture.
Featured Image Credit: Nintendo