The gaming industry’s worst-kept secret may soon be confirmed: your next console could cost significantly more, and not even Nintendo might be able to avoid the trend.

If you’ve been saving up for a Nintendo Switch 2, you might want to start setting aside a few extra dollars. According to a new industry analysis, the popular console could be the next hardware casualty of a global economic squeeze, following price increases from Sony and Microsoft. Research firm Niko Partners has predicted a “global price hike” for the Switch 2 in 2026, driven by tariffs, skyrocketing memory costs, and broader financial pressures.

While Nintendo has yet to make any official announcement, the prediction suggests the company may soon have to make a tough choice between absorbing losses or passing costs onto consumers.

The Prediction: A Heavier Price Tag on the Horizon

In its latest 2026 predictions, the video game business intelligence firm Niko Partners outlined a challenging scenario for Nintendo. The core of their analysis points to unavoidable external pressures:

“We believe the Switch 2 is set to follow in Sony and Microsoft’s footsteps with its own price hike driven by the impact from tariffs, increased memory costs, and broader macroeconomic conditions,” the firm stated.

The report speculates on how Nintendo might implement this increase. One possibility is that the company could discontinue the current $449 base model SKU. In its place, Nintendo might only sell a $499 or higher-priced bundle, effectively raising the entry-level cost for new buyers.

Why Would Nintendo Raise the Price?

The reasoning behind the prediction isn’t mere speculation; it’s rooted in concrete global supply chain issues:

• Tariffs: Production costs have been impacted by tariffs on goods manufactured in China, Japan, and Vietnam.
• The Memory Cost Crisis: A massive surge in demand for AI data centers has created a shortage, dramatically pushing up the prices of RAM and storage—key components in any gaming console.
• Macroeconomic Conditions: Broader inflation and logistical costs continue to affect manufacturing and distribution worldwide.

Nintendo managed to hold the line on its $449 launch price throughout 2025 despite these headwinds. However, analysts believe the continued pressure may force their hand in the coming year.

Nintendo’s Official Stance: A Careful “No Comment”

When asked directly about a potential price increase during a recent financial briefing, Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa was cautious. He declined to comment on “hypotheticals” but acknowledged the reality of rising memory prices.

Furukawa noted that these costs had no “immediate” impact on Nintendo’s financials, but he emphasized that the company would “continue to monitor the situation closely.” This careful language is typical of corporate communications but leaves the door open for future action if conditions worsen.

The Console Pricing Pressure Cooker

A Delicate Balance for Nintendo

For Nintendo, pricing is a critical part of its strategy. The company has historically prioritized accessibility and a wide install base over competing on raw hardware power. A price increase risks disrupting this balance, especially in a cost-conscious economic climate.

The suggested move to a bundled $499 SKU could be a strategic compromise. By offering a game or extra accessories, Nintendo could soften the blow of a higher price point, providing perceived added value to the consumer.

What This Means for You

If you’re planning to buy a Switch 2:

• Current owners: You’re in the clear. Console price hikes almost never apply retroactively.
• Potential buyers: If the prediction holds true, purchasing sooner rather than later could save you money. Keep an eye on official Nintendo channels for any announcements.

The video game industry isn’t immune to the world’s economic fluctuations. While fans hope Nintendo finds a way to maintain its current pricing, the combined weight of global factors may make a price hike an unfortunate inevitability.

What do you think? Is a $50+ price increase enough to change your purchase plans, or would the value of a new bundle justify the cost? Let us know in the comments.