Nintendo Gaming in 2026: Should You Buy Switch, Switch 2, or Wait?
April 2026 brings a genuine decision point for Nintendo fans. The original Switch is still selling, the Switch 2 just landed, and you've got LEGO Mario tie-ins flooding retail. Let's cut through the noise.
The Switch 2 Reality Check
Nintendo's new console launched at $449.99 at Target. Expect stock issues for another month or two—that's normal for Nintendo hardware. The Switch 2 offers better processing power, improved controllers, and a sharper screen. If you play anything beyond indie titles or emulated NES games, the upgraded hardware matters.
The honest catch: you're paying $450 for what essentially amounts to a mid-cycle refresh. It's not a generation leap in the PlayStation/Xbox sense. If the original Switch still satisfies you, dropping $450 isn't urgent. If you want cleaner visuals in ports or faster loading times, it's worth the money.
The Original Switch at $59.99 Is Misleading
Target's $59.99 price for the base Switch sounds incredible until you remember this is likely an older revision or heavy discount on remaining stock. Check the listing carefully for bundle inclusions. The Switch 2's release has made original hardware cheap, but verify what you're actually getting. At this price, it's a solid way into Nintendo's library if you've never owned one—just know the hardware is six years old now.
Game Value: Galaxy Bundle at $69.99
Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 bundled at $69.99 from Target is straightforward math. Both games regularly cost $30-40 each. You're getting two legitimately excellent 3D platformers for under $70. These aren't new releases, but they're not outdated either. Galaxy 2 especially remains one of Nintendo's best. This is a real value play if you own or plan to own a Switch.
Skip the LEGO Mario at $129.99
The LEGO Super Mario World set at $129.99 (Best Buy) is where I need to be direct: LEGO Nintendo sets are overpriced character licensing. You get a 1,500-piece set with Mario and Yoshi figures for $130. Compare that to standard LEGO sets where you get 1,500 pieces for $90-110. The Mario tax is real. If collecting Mario merchandise matters to you, fine. If you want LEGO value, buy something else.
What Actually Makes Sense Right Now
If you don't own a Switch and play games casually—indie titles, party games, older ports—grab the original Switch at $59.99 and the Galaxy bundle. You're in for roughly $130 total with two excellent games included.
If you game regularly or want current-generation ports running smoothly, the $449.99 Switch 2 is the right move despite the premium.
Skip the LEGO set unless you're a collector. The build is fine, the price isn't.
Don't panic about stock shortages. Nintendo always restocks. Wait a month if you're flexible and want the Switch 2 at a reasonable price.