Nintendo Declares War on Switch 2 Scalpers: Major Japanese Marketplaces Team Up to Ban Resales & Protect Fans!
Great news for gamers eagerly awaiting the Nintendo Switch 2! Recognizing the immense hype and the inevitable threat of scalpers, Nintendo is taking decisive action. The gaming giant has announced a powerful collaboration with three of Japan’s biggest online marketplaces – Mercari, Yahoo, and Rakuten – to combat price-gouging and fraudulent resales of its upcoming console.
With demand already skyrocketing (over 2.2 million people entered the first Japanese lottery for a launch-day console!), Nintendo is proactively working to ensure more fans can get their hands on the Switch 2 at a fair price. This partnership targets Mercari, Yahoo Auctions/Yahoo Flea Market, and Rakuten Rakuma, the primary platforms for second-hand sales in Japan.
The crackdown varies, but the message is clear: scalpers are not welcome. Yahoo is taking the most aggressive stance, announcing a complete ban on all Switch 2 console listings across both Yahoo Auctions and Yahoo Flea Market, starting from the console’s June 5th release date. This bold move aims to curb “confusion-causing behaviors” like stock hoarding and exorbitant pricing, with violators facing listing deletions and even account suspensions.
Rakuten Rakuma is focusing on pre-launch shenanigans, prohibiting any listings for the Switch 2 before its official release. They’re reminding users that selling items you don’t physically possess is against their rules, a direct hit against speculative pre-orders.
Mercari is bolstering its defenses by strengthening its partnership with Nintendo, promising to share information and swiftly remove listings that violate its guidelines. They’ll also leverage their existing ID verification system, introduced in March 2025, requiring sellers listing high-value items – including the Switch 2 – to prove their identity, adding another layer of security.
This welcome initiative comes as Nintendo has already warned fans about fake lottery-winner emails designed to steal money and personal information. By teaming up with these marketplace giants, Nintendo is sending a strong signal: they are committed to fighting back against scalpers and scammers, striving to make the Switch 2 launch a fairer and more positive experience for their dedicated fanbase.
