Gamestop mishandles Nintendo Switch 2 first day preorders

GameStop's mishaps lead to chaos over the Nintendo Switch 2 launch.

: Amid high demand, GameStop’s site struggled on April 24, 2025, during Switch 2 preorders, hitting users with errors and delays. Many hopeful buyers faced 'Not Available' alerts or unconfirmed orders, despite seemingly successful transactions. Alternatives like in-store purchases became necessary due to online shortcomings, but faced their own issues like long lines. Nintendo President apologized as demand outstripped supply, compelling GameStop to combat bot orders.

On April 24, 2025, GameStop mishandled the launch of Nintendo Switch 2 preorders, resulting in an online debacle for eager customers. At the crucial time, the retailer's website and app became immediately overwhelmed by high traffic. Many users, including Gizmodo staff, encountered a 502 error for a bad gateway, leaving GameStop's listing to display the console as 'Not Available.' This frustrating experience echoed across major retailers like Walmart, Best Buy, and Target, who had already sold out their stocks before GameStop's preorders went live.

Despite the website chaos, some individuals reported temporary success when a red 'Not Available' sticker allowed them to proceed to a purchase page. However, this potential triumph was short-lived for many, as confirmation emails were delayed or never arrived, order numbers didn't always reflect in accounts, and credit cards remained uncharged. GameStop later communicated that emails confirming orders would soon reach customers, striving to reassure the anxious audience that the preorders would be caught up within an hour.

In a statement on X, GameStop described their ongoing efforts to combat bot and duplicate orders to reopen inventory, but with the Switch 2 now officially sold out online, attention shifted to in-store purchases. Despite such alternatives requiring patient queuing at various GameStop outlets, the report indicated some lucky customers succeeded in obtaining preorder receipts after hours of waiting. Stores varied in stock availability, with reports of up to 50 units per location generating a desperate rush.

Meanwhile, Nintendo's side highlights the vast demand for the Switch 2, as President Shuntaro Furukawa issued an apology following preorder shortages through My Nintendo Store in Japan. The company promised email notifications by May 8 to those ordering directly, though it warned delivery by the June 5 launch was not guaranteed. The excitement over the console, exemplified by its expanded offerings, including the console-only model at $450 and a $500 bundle with Mario Kart World, further intensified consumer anticipation.

As the situation evolved, prospective buyers found themselves faced with the choice to wait for restocks or potentially head to stores hoping to procure any leftover consoles. The experience underscored the challenges of major tech launches, the necessity for efficient online handling, and customer frustration amid vast market demand. The initial launch hiccup invites reflection on technological preparedness and measures necessary to meet global consumer appetite in future launches.

Sources: Gizmodo, GameStop, Nintendo, X