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1. Make Sure Your Pre-Order Is Set
Check your email for a confirmation. Did you order the regular Switch 2 or the Mario Kart bundle? Log in to the store’s website and see if your order is still active. If there’s a tracking number, write it down so you can check it easily.
2. Know Where and When to Get It
Some stores will let you pick it up at midnight. Others open in the morning. Find out what time your store opens and if you need to bring anything with you. If you’re getting your console delivered, make sure to track your package. Turn on shipping alerts so you know when it’s close.
3. Get Your Accessories Ready
Make sure you have all the gear you need:
- Screen Protector (to keep the screen safe) Here’s the one we bought 🔗
- Protective Case (to keep the device scratch-free). Here’s the one we bought 🔗
- Carrying Case (if you’ll take it out of the house)
- MicroSD Express Card (128GB or bigger is best) MAKE SURE IT SAYS EXPRESS, REGULAR MICROSD CARDS DO NOT WORK WITH THE SWITCH 2
- Cloth to Clean the Screen (if you’re a handheld player like me)
Some older gear might not work with the Switch 2, so double-check that too.
4. Make Room for Your Console
Choose a spot for your Switch 2. Is there a plug nearby? Good Wi-Fi? Enough space for your games and accessories? Clean up the area so it’s easy to set up. A neat space helps everything run better.
5. Check Your Nintendo Account
Before your console gets there, log into your Nintendo Account. Make sure:
- You’re logged in on your phone or old Switch
- Your payment info is saved
- You have Nintendo Switch Online if you want online play
- Parental controls are set (if needed)
This way, you’ll be ready to get new games or save your progress to the cloud.
6. Pick Your First Games
What do you want to play first? Mario Kart World? Zelda: Echoes? If you’re going digital, see if you can pre-download games now. That saves time later. If you’re getting physical games, make sure they’ll be ready at the store or arrive with your console.
It helps to write down a short list of games you want to play first. You can even make plans with friends for online play.
7. Set Up Alerts and a Backup Plan
Didn’t get a pre-order? Or want an extra console? Some stores might have more on launch day. Set alerts on apps like HotStock or check store websites. Join Reddit or Discord chats that share restock info. That way, you won’t miss your chance.
Also, make a backup plan. If your main store messes up, where else could you go?
8. Get Ready to Set It Up
When your Switch 2 shows up, you’ll want to:
- Charge it fully
- Connect to Wi-Fi
- Sync your controllers
- Check for updates
- Link your Nintendo Account
Doing these steps early helps you avoid problems and gets you into your games faster.
9. Think About the Future
Protect your Switch for the long run. A case can stop damage if you travel. A screen protector keeps it looking new. A cleaning cloth helps with smudges. If you download a lot of games, you might need more storage.
If your family shares the console, set up controls for screen time. Save the box and extras if you think you’ll trade it later or take it on trips.
Quick Checklist
- ✅ Pre-order confirmed
- ✅ Pickup or delivery info ready
- ✅ Accessories gathered
- ✅ Play area clean
- ✅ Nintendo Account updated
- ✅ First games picked
- ✅ Restock alerts set
- ✅ Setup steps planned
You should be all set for your Switch 2! Are you ready to play on launch day? What game will you play first?
