Nintendo Switch 2 Won’t Be the Only Thing in Gaming Affected by Price Hikes – ESA

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As a gaming enthusiast, I can’t help but feel the ripple effects of Nintendo postponing the pre-order date for the Switch 2 due to the recent tariff decisions by the US government. Aubrey Quinn, the spokesperson for the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), shares this concern, expressing a belief that these tariffs could potentially bring a wave of adversity across the gaming industry at large.

To IGN Africa, Quinn commented that the ESA (Entertainment Software Association) is closely monitoring the current state of affairs. Furthermore, the association anticipates significant developments related to tariffs, such as possible retaliatory tariffs imposed by nations like China.

In simpler terms, Quinn stated that they are carefully observing recent developments in the USA without rushing to judgement because they believe this week’s announcement is not the final chapter. However, the tariffs as suggested will likely cause significant harm to the gaming industry and hundreds of millions of American gamers. Therefore, their aim is to collaborate with the administration and other officials to seek a solution that protects U.S. industries, businesses, and most importantly, American gamers and families.

As a follower of Quinn’s insights, I can share that according to him, the repercussions of tariffs extend beyond just an increase in console and game prices. He expresses concern about potential job losses, as tariffs might compel companies to either hike their prices or find alternative methods to compensate for their dwindling revenues. Quinn finds it challenging to envision a scenario where such tariffs wouldn’t influence pricing in some way.

As a gamer, I’m clear on who we need to talk to, and I’m actively working on establishing connections with them. I want them to know that we’re eager to collaborate with them in finding solutions. This isn’t just about government or corporate talks; it’s a dialogue between the public and private sectors. We aim to show them the potential impact, risks, and implications for businesses, consumers, and everything within the US borders.

To aid in achieving their objective of connecting with the appropriate official, the European Space Agency (ESA) has joined forces with a group of other trade organizations to engage with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. When queried about the effectiveness of this strategy for the ESA, Quinn confirmed that it has indeed been successful.

She went on to explain that “I can disclose that discussions are taking place with… However, I wouldn’t claim they happen at every level.” She added, “We’ve had meetings with staff at the White House and the USTR [the United States Trade Representative], so yes, there are indeed conversations happening. Moreover, these dialogues are being facilitated by other associations as well to ensure that… This matter doesn’t pertain exclusively to video games. As a representative of the video game industry, I am acutely aware of the implications for our sector, potential and actual, but it transcends the video game industry. The consequences will stretch across various consumer goods, impacting sectors such as food, fashion, and electronics.

Quinn thinks that the timing of the Nintendo Switch 2‘s pricing was just bad luck, as it resulted in increased media attention on the console’s expensive hardware and game prices, along with the U.S. government’s announcement of tariffs.

Quinn commented that the simultaneous announcement of the Switch [2 reveal] and tariffs on goods has created an interesting situation in media coverage around video games. Unfortunately, the timing was merely coincidental. Video games can be played on a variety of devices, including other consoles, VR headsets, smartphones, and PCs. If we only focus on the Switch, then we’re underestimating the issue at hand as this will undoubtedly have an impact across all these platforms.

She added, “Even companies based in America require items for their console and game production that must pass through U.S. borders. Consequently, there will be a significant influence on the industry as a whole, regardless of the specific company. This is not just about individual businesses; it affects the entire gaming industry.

Last week, it was revealed that the Switch 2 will be priced at $449.99 and will launch on June 5th. Additionally, the company has confirmed that the digital version of the launch title “Mario Kart World” will cost $79.99, while a physical copy will retail for $89.99.

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2025-04-07 15:11