Nintendo has unveiled the Switch 2 Welcome Tour, an innovative game set to launch alongside the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2. This unique offering, however, comes with a twist—it's not a complimentary pack-in but a separate, paid digital game available on the Nintendo eShop.
During the recent Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, the Switch 2 Welcome Tour was introduced as a "virtual exhibition" designed to familiarize players with the new hardware. According to Nintendo, "through tech demos, minigames, and other interactions, players will get to know the new system inside and out in ways they may never have known about otherwise." The Direct showcased a player avatar navigating a larger-than-life Switch 2, exploring its features and learning about its capabilities. The game functions as a virtual museum, complete with engaging minigames such as Speed Golf, Dodge the Spiked Balls, and a Maracas Physics Demo.
Nintendo confirmed via their stream and a press release that the Switch 2 Welcome Tour will be available for purchase on the Nintendo eShop starting on the Switch 2's launch day. While this tool is undoubtedly intriguing, fans have expressed curiosity and some disappointment over its status as a paid digital-only game rather than a free console pack-in. As of now, no specific price has been announced.
In addition to the Switch 2 Welcome Tour, the Nintendo Switch 2 will launch with a robust lineup of games including Mario Kart World, Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster, and Deltarune Chapters 1 through 4. With such a competitive launch slate, the Switch 2 Welcome Tour will need to stand out to justify its cost to consumers.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to hit the market on June 5, 2025, with a price tag of $449.99 USD, or $499.99 for the bundle that includes Mario Kart World.
For a comprehensive overview of all the announcements from today's Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, be sure to check out our detailed recap.
