Xbox fans, I wasn’t ready for $80 games, but Nintendo Switch 2’s Mario Kart World just set the tone

If you missed waking up this morning, Nintendo hosted a special Nintendo Direct event focusing on the eagerly anticipated next-generation Nintendo Switch console. This event unveiled several details, including technical specifications and a variety of upcoming games. One such game is an open-world style Mario Kart title called Mario Kart World.

Following the presentation, it was revealed that the price for Mario Kart World would be quite steep, with a hardcover edition priced at $80 USD.

For the first time in the U.S gaming industry, a significant shift has occurred regarding the standard price for major new game releases. Previously, there had been hesitation and indecision for quite some time, but now it seems that $70 has been agreed upon as the usual cost, such as in the case of PlayStation’s Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 or Activision’s Call of Duty series.

It’s important to mention that not every new Nintendo first-party game costs $80. For instance, Donkey Kong Bananza, a 3D platformer focusing on physics and environmental damage, has been announced at a retail price of $70.

It’s worth noting that prices can differ slightly. In many countries, digital Nintendo Switch games tend to be less expensive than their U.S. counterparts. Therefore, it’s plausible that similar price reductions could occur in the U.S. as well.

To conclude, it’s important to note that for some time now, gaming publishers have been prompting players to invest more in higher game tiers. This approach seems to follow a pattern where “Premium Editions” are released initially, offering a few days of early access before the official game launch to the general public.

Despite this, it’s clear as day: This is the initial version of the game priced at this level, but there will be more to come at similar pricing.

Other publishing companies might keep a keen eye, and it’s possible that they could introduce their premier games with a $80 price tag initially, even without any discount on the digital edition.

The negative impact is further aggravated as the U.S. maintains its ambiguous approach towards international tariff policies, while the unpredictable on-off pattern of these strategies can create chaos in global supply networks.

As a tech enthusiast, I must admit that not every highly anticipated game will top the charts, but there are a few exceptions worth mentioning: Grand Theft Auto 6, Marvel’s Wolverine, and Perfect Dark. I can’t help but feel that these games might come with price tags higher than what we’re accustomed to. I wouldn’t be surprised if they do.

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2025-04-02 18:39