The Switch 2 was just released in a midnight launch

Eight years after the launch of the original, the Nintendo Switch 2 is finally being released in midnight launch events around the country. At the same time, gamers around the United States are checking retailers like Walmart, Target, Best Buy, GameStop, and even Costco in search of the next-generation console.

On social media platforms like X, Reddit, and YouTube, gamers are sharing photos and videos of long lines and excited crowds outside stores like GameStop and Target. And some lucky gamers are already showing off their successful purchases.

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While there are dozens of Switch 2 games and accessories available for purchase, gamers looking for the console itself have two options: Get the base Switch 2 console for $449.99 or opt for the Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle for $499.99. Of course, both are in short supply, even as Nintendo forecasts selling 20 million units in the next 12 months.

The first customers to get their hands on Switch 2 consoles were the lucky players who placed a preorder through GameStop or Best Buy. Both retailers hosted midnight ET launch events around the country, which gave people the chance to pick up their preorders in person. In addition, these retailers will be selling limited supplies of consoles on a first-come, first-served basis, according to their websites. Mashable recently received a Switch 2 review unit, and we'll be sharing more first impressions soon.

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However, even though the Switch 2 has been officially released, that doesn't mean online inventory will be available right away. Nintendo is only allowing purchases for customers with active, paid Switch Online memberships. And Target previously announced that it wouldn't start selling the console online until Friday (June 6). However, retailers like Best Buy and Walmart promised to start selling the console online promptly at midnight.

When preorders officially went live on April 24, gamers promptly crashed retailer websites, and history may repeat itself for launch day. But if you want to try your luck at placing an online order, head to the retailers and start smashing that refresh button like you're playing Super Smash Bros.

You can check the latest Switch 2 stock at the following online stores:

• Nintendo

• Target

• Walmart

• GameStop

• Best Buy

• Costco

If those links don't work, you can also look for the Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle at Walmart, GameStop, Best Buy, Costco, and Staples.