The Launch of the Nintendo Switch: How Much Did it Cost When it First Came Out?
On March 3, 2017, Nintendo launched the Switch, a revolutionary gaming console that has captured the hearts of gamers worldwide. But, how much did it cost when it first came out? Let’s take a trip down memory lane and find out.
How Much was Nintendo Switch when it First Came Out?
The Nintendo Switch was released in three configurations, each with its own unique price tag.
- Nintendo Switch Console: $299.99 USD
- Nintendo Switch Console with Gray Joy-Con Controllers: $299.99 USD
- Nintendo Switch Limited Edition Console with Neon Red and Neon Blue Joy-Con Controllers: $299.99 USD
The prices listed above are for the launch date prices in the United States. The prices varied slightly depending on the region, with the European launch prices being €279.99 (approximately $317 USD) for the standard console, and €329.99 (approximately $381 USD) for the limited edition console.
Nintendo Switch Bundle
For an additional $100 (approximately £75 or €90), Nintendo offered a bundle that included the Switch console, a copy of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, and the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller. This bundle was a great option for gamers who wanted to dive straight into the Switch’s impressive library of games.
Nintendo Switch Price Adjustments
In September 2017, Nintendo announced a price cut for the Switch console, reducing its price from $299.99 to $279.99 in the United States. This price adjustment was aimed at boosting sales and making the console more competitive in the market.
Nintendo Switch Price Over Time
Since its release, the Nintendo Switch has undergone several price changes. Here’s a brief summary:
| Price Change | Date | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Price | March 2017 | $299.99 |
| Price Cut | September 2017 | $279.99 |
| Holiday Price | November 2017 | $249.99 |
| Ongoing Price | February 2023 | $299.99 |
As you can see, the Nintendo Switch’s price has fluctuated over time, with occasional price drops and promotions. It’s essential to research and compare prices to get the best deal for your gaming needs.
Nintendo Switch Price Comparison with Other Consoles
The Nintendo Switch’s original price was competitive with other gaming consoles at the time of its release.
- PS4 Pro: $399.99
- Xbox One S: $299.99
- PlayStation 3: $249.99
- Xbox 360: $249.99
Why was Nintendo Switch so Expensive?
Despite being priced slightly higher than the Xbox One S and PlayStation 3 at launch, the Nintendo Switch offered something unique: portability. The console’s hybrid design allowed gamers to play on the go, which was a game-changer in the industry. Nintendo’s innovative design, high-quality games, and intuitive interface contributed to the Switch’s higher price tag.
Conclusion
The Nintendo Switch’s launch price was $299.99, making it a premium gaming console experience. While it was a significant investment, the Switch’s unique features and addictive games made it an instant success. As the console’s popularity continued to grow, Nintendo implemented price adjustments to make it more accessible to gamers. Today, the Switch remains one of the most popular gaming consoles on the market.