Nintendo Switch 2 Allegedly Appears on Black Market with $40,000 Price Tag

A Chinese insider, known for leaking CAD images of the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, has reportedly put a working unit up for sale. The seller, whose identity remains concealed, is allegedly offering this next-gen console to an accessory manufacturer at a price hovering around $39,800, according to discussions on Reddit.

The CAD files in question appear to have played a significant role for companies like Dbrand and others crafting accessories even before the Switch 2 makes its official debut. With the leaked images perfectly aligning with the console’s design showcased in its reveal video, this leaker seems to be a trustworthy source. However, it’s always wise to approach such information with skepticism until official confirmations are made.

Using the Xiaohongshu forums, the leaker shared with a potential buyer the opportunity to test out the Switch 2’s dock, joystick, and tablet. Additionally, the leaker mentioned that Pro controllers might be available the following week, hinting at what could be Nintendo’s next advancement in their Switch Pro line.

In a conversation circulating on Reddit, the Chinese CAD model leaker revealed a screenshot of his direct messages with a black market operative. The discussions touched on the pricing for the Switch 2’s dock, joycons, and tablet, showing an astronomical figure just shy of $39,800.

The big question is whether this buyer will proceed with shelling out such a hefty sum for early access to the Switch 2. The financial benefit could be substantial, especially for companies looking to design accessories that fit perfectly with the new hardware. Those involved in the black market might anticipate a considerable profit, as early interaction with this unreleased hardware could be invaluable.

And let’s not forget the grey area this kind of transaction falls into. On the black market, substantial financial negotiations often accompany deals for coveted tech like this. One can only imagine that a CAD design leaker’s expectations would involve a significant payoff from any unofficial accessory maker eager to get their hands on this precious hardware for development purposes.

Why else would anyone be so keen on owning a pre-release Nintendo Switch 2? Sure, the enhanced games for the Switch 2 might eventually require special updates to unlock their full potential. However, until we edge closer to the console’s launch, Switch 2-compatible games won’t see the light of day. Still, for the tech-savvy, this console offers potential for testing and development long before its official release.

Nintendo fans are eagerly waiting for an official announcement regarding a release date. Yet it would be quite the laugh if this early investment turned out to be pointless because the official launch ended up being distant.

For now, we wait and watch, possibly grabbing some popcorn in anticipation of the next chapter in the Nintendo Switch 2 saga. Meanwhile, it might be worthwhile to stay informed through resources like Tom’s Hardware, which delivers top-tier news and detailed reviews straight to your inbox.