There was once a time in life when people would spend literal hours camped out on the streets just for the chance to nab themselves a brand-new PS2. With the rise in popularity of digital games, high-speed Wi-Fi, and online shopping, the tradition has died, somewhat. Now, Nintendo is bringing it back with the release of the Switch 2.
Burning the midnight oil
What if you could have the Nintendo Switch 2 in your hands the very moment the clock strikes twelve? That’s the idea behind this midnight launch. Whether you’ve pre-ordered the new console or not, just about anyone in Joburg on the evening of Wednesday, 4 June, can make their way to the Nintendo Store in Sandton City to take part in the festivities.
Customers who have pre-ordered the Nintendo Switch 2 through Nintendo Distributor SA began receiving their invites to the launch event this week, which promises special gifts, prizes, midnight deals, and, if you’re still saving up to afford the R12,500 price tag, the opportunity to pick up a console right then and there.
“Come hang out with Nintendo community for a night of shared memories and new beginnings! Let’s celebrate the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 – all together! Exclusive gifts, midnight-only deals and prizes await attendees—so join us and don’t miss out!” the invite reads.
“Pre-ordered at the Nintendo Branded Store? Come collect your console at midnight. Haven’t pre-ordered? No problem – you will be able to purchase on the night.”
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It’s recommended that customers arrive at the store a little early – as early as 23h00 on the evening of Wednesday, 4 June – to take part in a competitive trivia quiz before the doors officially open, and snag yourself an ‘exclusive gift’ (Nintendo says these are dished out on a first-come-first-served basis, so the earlier the better).
Sandton City can prove to be a maze at the best of times, and adding a midnight launch into the mix is bound to add some confusion. Nintendo’s invite mentions that attendees should make use of the mall’s ‘Entrance 5’ on the night, likely to avoid meeting any closed gates elsewhere. That’s on the corner of 5th Street and Maude Street when you’re loading it into Google Maps later.
