Nintendo Switch 2 launch draws massive line to Union Square
Nintendo Switch 2 mania takes over San Franciscos Union Square
Hundreds of fans lined up outside Union Squares Nintendo store for the long-awaited launch of the Switch 2. The $450 console is Nintendo’s most advanced yet, and for many, the release felt more like a celebration than a purchase.
SAN FRANCISCO - Fans lined up outside the Union Square Nintendo Store on Wednesday, eager for the chance to get their hands on the Nintendo Switch 2, the newest system from the gaming giant.
Sales started at 9 p.m. on Wednesday night, but that didn't stop dozens of enthusiasts from showing up early for a pre-launch event that included a preview of the new system.
"This is our number one hobby. This is what we live for. It provides entertainment and fun for friends and family," one fan told KTVU on Wednesday afternoon. "I have the fondest memories of my 30-year-old life playing Nintendo with friends and family."
Fans prepare for Nintendo Switch 2
Nintendo Switch 2 goes on sale Wednesday, fans lined up for a first look
Just before 11 p.m., the final customer walked out of the Nintendo store with the console, marking the end of an electric launch event.
Fifteen-year-old Dean, the first customer in line, said he had been planning this purchase for months.
"I made friends with everyone who was with me at the front of the line - like probably 10 people," he said. "I even got some of them on Nintendo Switch, so now I can play this with them."
Dean added that the purchase came with some trade-offs.
"I sacrificed next year’s birthday and Christmas presents. So I am in debt," he said with a laugh.
Annie Noriega flew in from Mexico City for the event and dressed as Princess Peach.
"I came to San Francisco three days ago," she said. "I love it, and I spent five months planning this."
Fans gather for the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2
Fans lined up outside the Nintendo store in Union Square, waiting for the chance to get their hands on the latest system from the gaming giant.
Upgrades
What we know:
The new system retails for $449.99, but gamers say it's worth the price.
The system, at first glance, isn't all that different from its predecessor. Both are tablets with detachable controllers and a dock that lets users play the device as a handheld system or as a home console connected to a TV.
The Switch 2, however, has a larger screen and more storage space. The system's controllers have optical sensors that allow them to double as computer mice, which will be usable in compatible games.
One of the biggest updates is a voice chat feature that lets players communicate in-game with friends and fellow players.
Nintendo store opens in SF Union Square
New Nintendo store opens its doors in San Francisco's Union Square
Brick and mortar
Local perspective:
The Union Square store opened in May of this year. It's the second such location in the United States, and city officials at the time pointed to the business as a sign of Union Square regaining its reputation as a shopping destination.
"I know that this store is going to bring locals," Lurie said at the opening on May 15. "But, it's going to draw visitors from across California, across the country, and across the world."
Nintendo's other brick-and-mortar location in the U.S. is in New York, near Rockefeller Plaza.
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