Image via The Pokemon Company
Scoring a collector’s edition of a Nintendo console has been a goal for fans of the developer for ages. From the Pikachu Yellow Game Boy Color to the Scarlet & Violet edition of the OLED Nintendo Switch, fans have been chasing these unique consoles for decades. Unfortunately, the Switch 2 era might be a big let down for collectors if recent bundles are any indicator.
The release of a new Pokémon game has typically included a special edition of the current Nintendo console. This has been especially true for games releasing shortly after the drop of a new console. With the Switch 2 only a few months old, it would be the perfect time for it. However, the bundle information for Pokémon Legends: Z-A lacks anything special. Instead of a Lumiose-themed console, or even Joy-Cons sporting Megas, the bundle will only include a standard Switch 2 and a code for the game.
While it is still early in the Switch 2 lifespan, there are a few signs that imply the lack of early special editions could foreshadow something unpleasant for the next era of Nintendo.
Mario and Pokémon Are Release Staples
Nintendo typically releases new consoles alongside powerhouse IP games. In this case, players were able to get Mario Kart World on release day with the Switch 2 console, and Pokémon Legends: Z-A is set to release on October 16, 2025, for the previous generation of Switch and the Switch 2.
When the original Switch launched, a special edition of the Splatoon 2 console and Super Mario Odyssey console were both released shortly after. These were also followed by the Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee! edition. These cute collector items came with special Joy-Cons, etched docks, and decorations on the backplates of the consoles.
These special editions were released within roughly a year of the Switch’s release date on March 2, 2017. The pattern was followed with the Switch Lite and the OLED through the next eight years, offering players a range of special editions to pick from.
By the time Legends: Z-A launches, it will have been almost six months since the Switch 2’s May 5 release date. This seems to indicate that Nintendo may be moving away from exclusive or limited edition embellishments during the era of the Switch 2.
Why Would Nintendo Avoid Special Edition Consoles?
While it might seem strange for a big name like Nintendo to simplify a console release, there are several major reasons why avoiding limited editions could be beneficial.
The first big reason is price. The Switch 2 is already one of the most expensive Nintendo consoles to date. At $449.99 with no bundled codes, this price is very steep for most casual gamers. This makes investing in the new-gen device more of a sacrifice for fans. Nintendo likely has recognized that this cost might make players less interested in trading in a device for another that has the same specs and only special visual embellishments.
It’s no secret that times are tough, and there is less money to go around. The hikes on game prices, consoles, and accessories have many less willing to jump in with both feet. Nintendo may be bracing for this instability by reducing the cost of making special edition consoles. By going all-in on a single model and focusing on pushing a discounted game code, they may have a better chance of enticing players to grab a console and keep playing.
Do Resellers Have Anything to Do With The Lack of Limited Editions
The other major hurdle facing modern gamers is stock issues due to resellers. In recent years, special or limited edition consoles have often been overwhelmingly purchased by resellers looking to mark them up on third-party websites.
While resellers hurt gaming communities by preventing consoles from making it into the hands of consumers playing the games, it’s unlikely that they have had any impact on Nintendo’s lack of Switch 2 special editions.
At the end of the day, as brutal as it is, a sale is a sale. It doesn’t matter who ends up buying the console; Nintendo still gets the money, and the sales still count toward its profit numbers and metrics. In fact, special editions are good for Nintendo, as they bait resellers into purchasing even more to ensure they can mark the consoles up when fans get desperate.
Will Nintendo Avoid Special Editions Entirely?
While Nintendo has said nothing about its plans for special edition consoles specifically, there is a solid chance that the developer will not focus on releasing any sort of special edition options for players during this era.
The Switch 2 is being marketed as a premium device on par with the Steam Deck and other more expensive consoles. While it might release special Joy-Cons for customization, it likely will focus on keeping a sleek, black, “modern” look for the Switch 2 across its lifespan to help it compete.
This is bad news for collectors and for fans who love showing their personality through limited editions. Thankfully, vinyl skins and stickers do offer a level of customization, and there is always the chance that Nintendo will create Switch 2 accessories for favorite franchises that will offer a little flair to these visually bland consoles.
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