Nintendo Switch 2 is being sold on the black market for $40,000 ─ the console will be released only in April

It seems that some insiders already have the Nintendo Switch 2 portable game console in their possession before its official release scheduled for later this year.

A Chinese insider who previously leaked CAD images of the Nintendo Switch 2 console claims to have a fully functional device for sale. According to Reddit, the anonymous seller is offering a prototype of the next-generation console to an accessory manufacturer for $39800.

Chinese CAD model leaker shows a screenshot of his DMs with a black market seller, saying the prices for the Switch 2 dock, joycons, and tablet will cost him $39,780
byu/Icy-ConcentrationC inNintendoSwitch2

Earlier, CAD renders of the same console were already used by Dbrand and other Switch 2 accessory manufacturers before the official announcement. Later, the official design of the console in the presentation video completely coincided with these leaks, which confirmed their authenticity. Thus, this insider seems to be the most reliable source of information about Switch 2. However, we should treat all such statements with caution.

An insider who uses Xiaohongshu forums told an interested buyer that he could experiment with the Switch 2 dock, joystick, and tablet part. He also claimed that Pro controllers would be available next week. This could be a new version of the official Nintendo Switch Pro controller.

Will someone pay almost $40,000 for early access to the Nintendo Switch 2? It may depend on the earning opportunities on it. Early access to hardware will give an advantage to manufacturers of cases, gamepads, and other accessories. Both official and unofficial companies that want to get a head start before the release.

Of course, if the console really hit the black market, we can assume that the seller will demand significant amounts not only from manufacturers of official accessories, but also from those who work on cartridges for pirated games or other illegal devices.

The only practical sense in purchasing a Nintendo Switch 2 before its official release is to analyze the system for potential hacking or to develop accessories. Games for Nintendo Switch 2 have not yet been released, and those that will receive graphical improvements will most likely require special patches. Therefore, without official software, users will not be able to experience the full potential of the console.

However, the device’s operating system itself can be valuable for developers. If the Switch 2 comes with the same firmware as the current version, access to it even before the release opens up opportunities for exploitation and modification.