Latest Zelda Switch 2 console restock is brief, as scalpers thwart Nintendo fans again

Nintendo recently promised U.K. customers that it would soon restock the Zelda 40th Anniversary Switch 2 console. As it turns out, the gaming giant’s U.S. store received a new allotment on September 28th. While some buyers report success, scalpers were again prepared to monopolize pre-orders.  

Early in the afternoon in the Eastern Time Zone, the special-edition black, green, and gold system surfaced. Redditors explained how the hardware remained available for anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour. Still, during that window, it went in and out of stock. Checkout errors added to the uncertainty and frustration.

Success rates were mixed, with some posters finally securing the $519.99 Zelda Switch 2 console. Unsuccessful gamers blamed scalpers for the ongoing shortage. Since pre-orders opened on September 8th, eBay sellers have preyed on the handheld as well as the matching Pro Controller.

Subtle signs suggest supply is beginning to catch up with demand. Amazon, Best Buy, and Target have occasionally replenished the popular target. eBay sales had been closing for as high as $800-$900 but have recently settled at less inflated prices. If profits aren’t massive once paying fees, it pressures these individuals to acquire higher volumes.

Patience is a virtue

Experienced buyers who lived through past launches warn against paying above retail price. Nintendo manufactured the Tears of the Kingdom Switch OLED more than a year after its 2023 debut. That said, it’s unclear how long the company will produce the Zelda 40th Anniversary Switch 2 console.

Many Zelda game enthusiasts are intent on pre-ordering the console before the November 5th Ocarina of Time remake release date. For impatient gamers, using trackers like HotStock can be worthwhile. Their alert systems are often faster and more reliable than retailer notifications. It’s also wise to log in to the sites in advance and have multiple payment methods on file.