Nintendo's Switch 2 Livestream Overwhelmed by "DROP the PRICE" Chants

Nintendo's first post-Switch 2 Nintendo Direct Treehouse livestream is facing a barrage of negative feedback, with viewers overwhelmingly demanding that the company "DROP THE PRICE." A quick scan of the YouTube chat during the stream reveals a flood of complaints about the pricing of Nintendo's next-generation console, the Switch 2, set at $449.99, and the particularly controversial $79.99 price tag for Mario Kart World.

While the Nintendo Switch 2 system itself will retail for $449.99, a bundle option is available that includes Mario Kart World for $499.99, offering a $30 savings on the game. However, the high cost of Mario Kart World isn't an isolated case; other Switch 2 titles, such as The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, are also priced at $79.99.

Nintendo has also faced criticism for charging for the Switch 2 tutorial video game, Welcome Tour, which fans argue should be a complimentary pack-in. For comparison, Astro's Playroom comes pre-installed on every PlayStation 5 console, serving as a free tech demo for the DualSense controller.

The Nintendo Switch 2 package includes:

• Nintendo Switch 2 console
• Joy-Con 2 controllers (L+R)
• Joy-Con 2 Grip
• Joy-Con 2 Straps
• Nintendo Switch 2 Dock
• Ultra High-Speed HDMI Cable
• Nintendo Switch 2 AC Adapter
• USB-C Charging Cable

The outcry over Nintendo's pricing strategy has spilled over into the Treehouse livestream, though the presenters have so far chosen to ignore the chat. It appears that Nintendo may continue to face similar backlash from the gaming community, increasing the pressure on the company to respond to these concerns.

For further insights, check out IGN's article on what the experts have to say about Nintendo's Switch 2 and Mario Kart World pricing. And, if you missed any announcements, catch up with all the news from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct.