Fake Switch 2 Auctions Flood eBay, Targeting Scalpers

Nintendo fans are taking a stand against scalpers by flooding auction sites with fake listings for the eagerly awaited Nintendo Switch 2. This clever tactic aims to drown out the scalpers' overpriced pre-orders, which have been popping up on platforms like eBay, ranging from $500 to a staggering $2,000.

With the Nintendo Switch 2 set to launch on June 5, and only 40 days left until the big day, scalpers are exploiting the situation by listing pre-orders that promise delivery within 40 business days of purchase. In response, dedicated Nintendo fans are posting their own listings at or below the expected retail price of $449.99, effectively pushing the scalpers' auctions down the search results.

Consider this example: A listing titled "Nintendo Switch v2 video games console PREORDER" is listed at $450. At first glance, it seems like a decent deal. However, the description reveals the true nature of the auction: "PRE-ORDER SCREENSHOT Please note: You are ordering a picture of the Nintendo Switch 2. This listing is to combat bots and scalpers. No refunds. No cancels. > You will receive an png image of a switch 2. No console." These listings often include "read description" in the title, making it clear that they're part of the fan-led initiative against scalpers.

Another listing priced at $550 humorously warns potential buyers: "Do not, I repeat DO NOT BUY this unless you are a bot or just wish to donate $550 to me. I will be shipping a laser-printed image of the Switch 2 Mario Kart World bundle and that will be all you get. NO REFUNDS. NO. REFUNDS. NO REFUNDS. You will NOT BE REFUNDED you will be receiving the picture whether you like it or not."

A third listing for $499.99 states: "This listing is for a printed picture of my Nintendo Switch 2 console confirmed preorder. You will receive a printed picture, folded, and sent in a standard letter envelope. This is NOT for the console itself. No refunds, No returns. F the bots."

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The Nintendo Switch 2 was initially slated for a June 5, 2025 release, with prices starting at $449.99. However, pre-orders faced delays in the U.S. due to import tariffs enacted by President Trump, which caused financial market turbulence. Pre-orders eventually went live on April 24 at the same price, and as expected, they sold out quickly. For more information, check out IGN's comprehensive Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order guide.

In other news, Nintendo recently addressed compatibility issues with its new GameCube controller, noting that there might be "issues" when using it to play modern Nintendo Switch games.