Hey there, fellow gamers and savvy shoppers! Can you feel that chill in the air? No, it’s not just the start of winter—it’s the glorious, chaotic, and wallet-emptying season of Black Friday! And if you’re anything like me, your eyes are laser-focused on one thing: snagging the absolute best Nintendo Switch Black Friday deals of 2025.
This year is extra special, folks. Why? Because we’re not just talking about the beloved original Nintendo Switch; we’re also diving headfirst into the world of the shiny, new Nintendo Switch 2! It’s a console crossover event, and the deals are looking sweeter than a Super Star. Whether you’re looking to finally jump into the Nintendo ecosystem, upgrade your old console, or just beef up your game library, this is your ultimate, no-fluff, totally honest guide to navigating the Black Friday madness.
So, grab your favorite power-up (mine’s a strong cup of coffee), settle in, and let’s break down everything you need to know to win Black Friday 2025.
1. The Console Conundrum: Switch vs. Switch 2
Let’s get the big question out of the way: Which console should you be hunting for? This year, Nintendo has given us a delightful (and slightly confusing) choice.
The New Kid on the Block: Nintendo Switch 2: The Next-Gen Hunt
This year, the Nintendo Switch 2 is the undisputed heavyweight champion of the holiday season. It’s not just an upgrade; it’s a whole new era for Nintendo gaming. The console boasts superior graphics, faster load times, and a host of quality-of-life improvements that make it a must-have for serious Nintendo fans. However, as with any brand-new, high-demand piece of tech, the Black Friday strategy is less about a straight price cut and more about value-added bundles.
Nintendo is smart. They know you want the console, so instead of slashing the price, they’re sweetening the pot with a game that’s guaranteed to be a system seller: Mario Kart World.
| Console Option | Suggested Retail Price (SRP) | Black Friday Deal | What You Get |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nintendo Switch 2 Console | $449.99 | No Discount | The console, dock, and Joy-Cons. Standard fare. |
| Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle | $499.99 | Value Bundle | Console + a digital copy of the brand-new Mario Kart World. This is the best way to save money on the console itself, as you’re essentially getting a $50 game for free (or heavily discounted). |
My Two Cents (The Conversational Take): Look, if you’re a serious gamer and want the best performance, the Switch 2 is the way to go. The Mario Kart World bundle is a no-brainer. You’re getting the console and a must-have game for just fifty bucks more than the console alone. That’s like finding a secret warp pipe straight to savings! Don’t expect a straight price drop on the console—that’s just not how Nintendo rolls with new hardware. The Mario Kart World bundle is the closest you’ll get to a “deal” on the console itself, and frankly, it’s a fantastic one. Mario Kart is the ultimate party game, and having the latest version bundled with your new console means you can start racing right out of the box. If you were going to buy the game anyway (and let’s be honest, you were), you’re saving money and getting the most essential launch title. Prioritize this bundle if the Switch 2 is on your list.
The Beloved Classic: Nintendo Switch (OLED/Standard)
The original Nintendo Switch and the gorgeous OLED model are still fantastic consoles, especially now that the Switch 2 offers backward compatibility. The deals here are focused on getting the console into new hands.
While the official Nintendo announcement focused heavily on the Switch 2, retailers are the place to watch for the original Switch. Last year’s deals often included a console, a game (like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe), and a 3-month Nintendo Switch Online membership for the standard console price. Keep your eyes peeled for similar bundles this year, especially for the OLED model, which is still a visual treat.
Pro Tip: If you’re on a budget or just want a second console for the kids, the original Switch is a great pick. Check out retailers like Walmart and Target—they often have the most aggressive bundles for the older hardware. The original Switch is still a powerhouse, and with the Switch 2’s backward compatibility, your library will transfer seamlessly. This makes the original Switch a highly viable, budget-friendly option for Black Friday 2025.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is the star of the show this holiday season. It’s faster, prettier, and has all the bells and whistles. But here’s the kicker: it’s new, which means massive discounts are rare. Instead, Nintendo is offering value through bundles.
| Console Option | Suggested Retail Price (SRP) | Black Friday Deal | What You Get |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nintendo Switch 2 Console | $449.99 | No Discount | The console, dock, and Joy-Cons. Standard fare. |
| Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle | $499.99 | Value Bundle | Console + a digital copy of the brand-new Mario Kart World. This is the best way to save money on the console itself, as you’re essentially getting a $50 game for free (or heavily discounted). |
My Two Cents (The Conversational Take): Look, if you’re a serious gamer and want the best performance, the Switch 2 is the way to go. The Mario Kart World bundle is a no-brainer. You’re getting the console and a must-have game for just fifty bucks more than the console alone. That’s like finding a secret warp pipe straight to savings! Don’t expect a straight price drop on the console—that’s just not how Nintendo rolls with new hardware.
The Beloved Classic: Nintendo Switch (OLED/Standard)
The original Nintendo Switch and the gorgeous OLED model are still fantastic consoles, especially now that the Switch 2 offers backward compatibility. The deals here are focused on getting the console into new hands.
While the official Nintendo announcement focused heavily on the Switch 2, retailers are the place to watch for the original Switch. Last year’s deals often included a console, a game (like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe), and a 3-month Nintendo Switch Online membership for the standard console price. Keep your eyes peeled for similar bundles this year, especially for the OLED model, which is still a visual treat.
Pro Tip: If you’re on a budget or just want a second console for the kids, the original Switch is a great pick. Check out retailers like Walmart and Target—they often have the most aggressive bundles for the older hardware.
2. The Game Time Goldmine: Must-Have Titles on Sale
This is where the real savings are, folks. Nintendo is dropping the price on some of its biggest, most essential first-party titles. These games never go on sale this low outside of Black Friday, so now is the time to strike! The deals kick off on November 23rd at select retailers.
The $39.99 Tier: The New Classics
These are the games that were released more recently or are still considered premium titles. Getting them for $20 off is a steal!
| Game Title | Original SRP | Black Friday Price | Why You Need It (The Pitch) |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom | $59.99 | $39.99 | The newest Zelda adventure! Play as Zelda herself and use the power of echoes to save Hyrule. A fresh take on a legendary franchise. |
| Princess Peach: Showtime! | $59.99 | $39.99 | Peach finally gets her spotlight! A charming, theatrical adventure with fun costume changes and unique gameplay mechanics. Perfect for all ages. |
| Donkey Kong Country Returns HD | $59.99 | $39.99 | A stunning HD remaster of a platforming masterpiece. Challenging, gorgeous, and packed with classic Donkey Kong fun. |
| Luigi’s Mansion 3 | $59.99 | $39.99 | Spooky, silly, and full of creative puzzles. Luigi’s ghost-busting adventure is a co-op dream and a visual spectacle. |
| Kirby’s Return to Dream Land Deluxe | $59.99 | $39.99 | A fantastic, colorful platformer with tons of copy abilities and great multiplayer. It’s Kirby—it’s pure joy! |
The $29.99 Tier: The All-Time Essentials
If you haven’t played these, you’ve been living under a rock! These are the foundational Switch games, and at $30, they are an absolute must-buy.
| Game Title | Original SRP | Black Friday Price | Why You Need It (The Pitch) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Super Mario Odyssey | $59.99 | $29.99 | Arguably one of the best Mario games ever made. A creative, globe-trotting adventure that is pure fun from start to finish. |
| Splatoon 3 | $59.99 | $29.99 | The freshest shooter on the market. Ink-splatting fun, deep customization, and addictive online multiplayer. Get ready to get messy! |
| Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door | $59.99 | $29.99 | The highly-anticipated remake of the GameCube classic. A hilarious, charming, and deeply strategic RPG. A must-have for any RPG fan. |
| Nintendo Switch Sports | $49.99 | $29.99 | Get off the couch! A spiritual successor to Wii Sports, perfect for family gatherings and getting a little active. |
The Digital Deals: eShop Cyber Deals
Don’t forget the digital side! The Cyber Deals sale runs from November 20th through December 3rd on the Nintendo eShop. This is where you’ll find discounts on hundreds of games, including third-party titles.
- Up to 50% off on a massive selection of games.
- Keep an eye out for third-party blockbusters like Star Wars Outlaws (mentioned by IGN to be $39.99 on Switch 2, a $20 discount).
- This is the perfect time to grab those indie gems and smaller titles you’ve been eyeing.
My Strategy for Games: Prioritize the $29.99 tier first—Odyssey, Splatoon 3, and Paper Mario are legendary deals. Then, if your budget allows, grab the $39.99 titles. For digital, make a wishlist now and check it on November 20th when the eShop sale goes live.
3. Accessory Arsenal: Powering Up Your Play
A Nintendo Switch is only as good as its accessories. Black Friday is the time to grab the essentials that make your gaming life easier and more fun.
Storage: The MicroSD Card Lifeline
With games getting bigger, storage is non-negotiable. You need a MicroSD card, and this year, the focus is on the new, faster standard for the Switch 2.
| Accessory | Black Friday Deal | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung MicroSD Express Cards | $20 off MSRP (Starting Nov. 30) | This is the recommended, high-speed storage for the Nintendo Switch 2. If you’re buying the new console, this is the card you want. |
| Standard MicroSD Cards | Various Retailer Deals | Look for deals on SanDisk or Samsung standard MicroSD cards (128GB, 256GB, 512GB) for the original Nintendo Switch. These will be heavily discounted at Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart. |
Why the MicroSD Express Card Matters: The Switch 2 utilizes a faster storage technology. While you can use older cards, the Express card will ensure you get the best load times and performance for Switch 2-exclusive titles. Don’t skimp on storage!
amiibo and Controllers: The Essential Gear
A Nintendo Switch is only as good as its accessories. Black Friday is the time to grab the essentials that make your gaming life easier and more fun. Beyond the console and games, you need to think about how you’re going to play.
The Pro Controller: A Must-Have Upgrade
Let’s be real: the Joy-Cons are great for portability and party games, but for serious, long-session gaming, you need a Pro Controller. It offers a more traditional, ergonomic feel, better battery life, and superior buttons. While Nintendo’s official announcement didn’t specify a price drop on the Pro Controller, history tells us that retailers like Amazon and Best Buy will offer a $10 to $20 discount on this essential piece of hardware.
- Official Nintendo Switch Pro Controller: Look for prices around $50 - $55 (down from $69.99). This is a solid investment that will last for years.
- Third-Party Controllers: GamesRadar mentioned Joy-Cons starting from $72. While not a massive discount, any savings on these essential (and sometimes drift-prone) controllers is welcome. Keep an eye out for third-party Pro Controller alternatives, which often see huge price drops. Brands like PowerA and 8BitDo often have excellent, officially licensed controllers that can be snagged for as low as $30 - $40. If you’re on a tight budget, a quality third-party controller is a great way to save.
amiibo: Collectibles and In-Game Bonuses
- amiibo: Select amiibo figures are getting a $10 off MSRP discount. This includes the new The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom Sages amiibo (Tulin, Yunobo, Riju, Sidon) and the STREET FIGHTER 6 figures. If you’re a collector, this is a rare chance to save on these little statues of joy. These figures not only look great on your shelf but also unlock special content, items, or features in compatible games. For the new Zelda amiibo, this is the first time they’ve been discounted, making it a prime opportunity for collectors.
The Cute Factor: Cases and Gear
GamesRadar highlighted a fantastic early deal: the Hello Kitty Sonix Carrying Case for Nintendo Switch 2 for just $9.99 (down from $39.99). That’s a 75% saving! Black Friday is the perfect time to grab fun, licensed gear like cases, skins, and grips at rock-bottom prices. Don’t forget the screen protectors! A tempered glass screen protector is a cheap, essential investment to protect your console’s display. Look for a two-pack for under $10.
- amiibo: Select amiibo figures are getting a $10 off MSRP discount. This includes the new The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom Sages amiibo (Tulin, Yunobo, Riju, Sidon) and the STREET FIGHTER 6 figures. If you’re a collector, this is a rare chance to save on these little statues of joy.
- Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers: GamesRadar mentioned Joy-Cons starting from $72. While not a massive discount, any savings on these essential (and sometimes drift-prone) controllers is welcome. Keep an eye out for third-party Pro Controller alternatives, which often see huge price drops.
The Cute Factor: Cases and Gear
GamesRadar highlighted a fantastic early deal: the Hello Kitty Sonix Carrying Case for Nintendo Switch 2 for just $9.99 (down from $39.99). That’s a 75% saving! Black Friday is the perfect time to grab fun, licensed gear like cases, skins, and grips at rock-bottom prices.
4. Where to Find the Deals: Your Retailer Hit List and Strategy
Black Friday is a race, and you need to know your track. The deals are spread across multiple major retailers, and sometimes one store will have a slightly better bundle or a unique incentive than the others. Knowing the strengths of each retailer is key to maximizing your savings.
| Retailer | Key Focus | Strategy | Unique Incentive |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Digital Games, MicroSD Cards, Accessories | Best for quick, online purchases. They often price-match and have the deepest discounts on storage and third-party accessories. | Lightning Deals (Time-sensitive, deep discounts) |
| Best Buy | Console Bundles, Physical Games | Great for in-store pickup and often features exclusive bundles. They are also hosting in-store demos of Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza on Nov. 15 and Dec. 13. | In-Store Demos and Exclusive Bundles |
| Walmart | Console Bundles, Door-Buster Deals | Known for aggressive, high-volume deals. Watch for their specific console bundles, which can be the best value for the original Switch. They are also part of the GameTruck + Walmart Holiday Tour for demos. | Aggressive Door-Buster Pricing |
| Target | Physical Games, Gift Card Promos | Often offers a gift card with a purchase (e.g., buy a Switch, get a $50 Target gift card). This is a great way to save on future purchases. | Target Circle/Gift Card Promotions |
| My Nintendo Store / eShop | Digital Games, amiibo, Official Merch | The only place for the Cyber Deals sale (Nov. 20 - Dec. 3) and official amiibo discounts. | Exclusive Digital Titles and Merch |
Retailer Deep Dive: Maximize Your Strategy
Target’s Gift Card Strategy: Target is a master of the “Gift Card with Purchase” deal. Instead of a straight discount on a $300 console, they might offer a $50 Target Gift Card with the purchase of a Nintendo Switch. This is a fantastic deal because that $50 can be immediately used to buy one of the $29.99 games on sale, effectively making the game free and giving you change back. Always check the fine print for these promotions!
Walmart’s Door-Buster Focus: Walmart is where you go for the most aggressive, limited-quantity deals. Their focus is often on getting people into the store (or onto their site) with a headline-grabbing price. If you’re hunting for the absolute lowest price on the original Switch console, Walmart is your best bet, but be prepared to act fast, as these deals sell out in minutes.
Amazon’s Convenience and Price Matching: Amazon is the king of convenience. They will almost certainly price-match the physical game deals from other retailers. Their strength lies in accessories and digital codes. Look for their “Lightning Deals” on MicroSD cards and third-party controllers—these are short-lived, deep discounts that can save you a bundle.
Best Buy’s Experience: Best Buy is positioning itself as the place for the full Nintendo experience this Black Friday, with in-store demos. This is great if you want to try out the new Mario Kart World before you commit to the Switch 2 bundle. They also tend to have the best selection of physical games and official accessories.
The Early Bird Gets the Worm: Many retailers start their “Black Friday” sales a week or two early. IGN noted that the sale is now live across all major retailers. Don’t wait until the official date of November 28th! Start checking those links now. The best deals, especially on games, are often available right at the start of the sale period.
5. The “Why Now” Argument: A Historic Black Friday
This isn’t just another Black Friday; this is a historic one for Nintendo fans. Why? Because of the Nintendo Switch 2 launch.
The Console Transition: A Buyer’s Market
In previous years, Black Friday deals were predictable: a standard Switch bundle with a game. This year, the introduction of the Switch 2 creates a unique buyer’s market for both consoles:
- Switch 2: The deals are focused on value (the Mario Kart World bundle), making the entry point to the new generation as appealing as possible.
- Original Switch (OLED/Standard): The market is flooded with the older model, which means retailers are desperate to clear inventory. This translates to the deepest discounts ever on the original Switch and its accessories. If you’ve been holding out, this is the time to buy the original.
The Game Library Sweet Spot
The backward compatibility of the Switch 2 is the secret sauce. It means that the massive, discounted library of original Switch games you buy this Black Friday is future-proof. You can buy Super Mario Odyssey for $29.99 and play it on your brand-new Switch 2 with enhanced performance, thanks to the free update.
This synergy—deep discounts on a massive, compatible library combined with a high-value bundle for the new console—makes Black Friday 2025 the single best time to invest in the Nintendo ecosystem. You are buying into a mature, discounted library that is guaranteed to work on the latest hardware. It’s a win-win scenario that we haven’t seen since the transition from the Wii to the Wii U (though this one is much, much smoother!).
6. Black Friday Survival Guide: Pro Tips to Win the Day
Black Friday can be a chaotic mess, but with a little planning, you can walk away with all the loot and none of the stress.
Tip 1: Make a List and Check It Twice (The Budget)
Before you even look at a deal, decide exactly what you need and what you’re willing to spend.
- Console: Switch 2 Bundle or Original Switch?
- Games: Which 3-5 titles are your absolute must-haves?
- Accessories: Do you need a Pro Controller, a case, or a MicroSD card?
Stick to your list! The shiny, non-discounted Kirby Air Riders can wait.
Tip 2: Price Alerts are Your Best Friend
Use online tools and retailer apps to set price alerts for the specific items you want. Sites like CamelCamelCamel (for Amazon) or the official retailer apps can notify you the second a price drops. Don’t rely on checking the page every five minutes—let the tech do the work!
Tip 3: The “Fake Discount” Trap
Be wary of deals that look too good to be true. Some retailers will inflate the “original price” to make the discount look bigger. This is the “Don’t Fall for Fake Discounts” rule. Always check the historical price of an item before you buy. If a game is always $49.99, a drop to $39.99 is good, but a claim of “75% off” from a fictional $120 price tag is a red flag.
Tip 4: Sign Up for Loyalty Programs
If you’re shopping at Best Buy, Target, or Walmart, make sure you’re signed up for their free loyalty programs (like My Best Buy or Target Circle). You might get early access to deals or earn extra rewards points on your purchases.
Tip 5: The Digital vs. Physical Debate
This is a classic gamer debate. For Black Friday, here’s the breakdown:
- Physical Games: Better for the big, first-party titles (the $29.99 and $39.99 tiers). You can trade them in later or lend them to friends.
- Digital Games (eShop): Better for convenience, smaller indie titles, and the Cyber Deals sale. You can start playing instantly.
I recommend buying the big first-party games physically for the best price and using the eShop sale to fill out your digital library with smaller titles.
7. The Future is Now: Switch 2 Upgrade Packs and New Games
The Black Friday announcements also gave us a peek into the future of the Nintendo ecosystem.
The Upgrade Pack Concept
Nintendo is introducing “upgrade packs” for select original Switch games, allowing you to pay a fee to get enhanced features on the Switch 2. The official announcement mentioned this for games like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.
This is a smart move by Nintendo, allowing them to monetize the new hardware’s capabilities while respecting the original purchase. It’s something to keep in mind if you already own a massive Switch library.
New Titles to Watch
The announcements also highlighted new and upcoming titles that will define the Switch 2’s early life:
- Donkey Kong Bananza
- Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
- Kirby Air Riders (Upcoming)
- Metroid Prime 4: Beyond – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Upcoming)
While these aren’t on sale, they are the reason you’re buying the new console, and the Black Friday deals on accessories and older games will help you save money for these future purchases.
8. Visualizing the Savings: A Markdown Table Summary
To make your shopping list easy to digest, here is a summary of the confirmed, must-have deals. Print this out, save it to your phone, and thank me later!
| Category | Item | Black Friday Price | Savings/Value | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Console | Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle | $499.99 | Free/Discounted Game | Select Retailers |
| Game (Tier 1) | Super Mario Odyssey | $29.99 | $30 Off (50%) | Select Retailers (Physical) |
| Game (Tier 1) | Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door | $29.99 | $30 Off (50%) | Select Retailers (Physical) |
| Game (Tier 2) | The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom | $39.99 | $20 Off (33%) | Select Retailers (Physical) |
| Accessory | Samsung MicroSD Express Card | $20 Off MSRP | Essential for Switch 2 | Select Retailers (Starts Nov. 30) |
| Accessory | Select amiibo Figures | $10 Off MSRP | Great for Collectors | Select Retailers |
| Digital | Star Wars Outlaws (Switch 2) | $39.99 | $20 Off | Nintendo eShop (Nov. 20 - Dec. 3) |
9. Final Thoughts: Get Ready to Game!
Black Friday 2025 is shaping up to be one of the best years yet for Nintendo fans. The combination of the new Switch 2 console, incredible bundles, and deep discounts on the best first-party games makes this a can’t-miss event.
Remember the golden rules: Plan, Prioritize, and Pounce! Don’t get distracted by the noise. Focus on those core deals—the console bundle, the $29.99 games, and the essential storage.
Good luck out there, and may your shopping cart be full and your wallet only slightly empty! Happy gaming!
Black Friday is a race, and you need to know your track. The deals are spread across multiple major retailers, and sometimes one store will have a slightly better bundle than the others.
| Retailer | Key Focus | Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Digital Games, MicroSD Cards, Accessories | Best for quick, online purchases. They often price-match and have the deepest discounts on storage and third-party accessories. |
| Best Buy | Console Bundles, Physical Games | Great for in-store pickup and often features exclusive bundles. They are also hosting in-store demos of Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza on Nov. 15 and Dec. 13. |
| Walmart | Console Bundles, Door-Buster Deals | Known for aggressive, high-volume deals. Watch for their specific console bundles, which can be the best value for the original Switch. They are also part of the GameTruck + Walmart Holiday Tour for demos. |
| Target | Physical Games, Gift Card Promos | Often offers a gift card with a purchase (e.g., buy a Switch, get a $50 Target gift card). This is a great way to save on future purchases. |
| My Nintendo Store / eShop | Digital Games, amiibo, Official Merch | The only place for the Cyber Deals sale (Nov. 20 - Dec. 3) and official amiibo discounts. |
The Early Bird Gets the Worm: Many retailers start their “Black Friday” sales a week or two early. IGN noted that the sale is now live across all major retailers. Don’t wait until the official date of November 28th! Start checking those links now.
5. The Backward Compatibility Bonus: Why Your Old Games Still Matter
One of the coolest things about the Switch 2 is its backward compatibility. This means all those amazing games you bought for your original Switch (or are about to buy in the Black Friday sale) will work on the new console.
But wait, there’s more! Nintendo announced that some of the best original Switch games are getting free Nintendo Switch 2 updates for smoother gameplay and higher resolutions.
- Super Mario Odyssey
- Splatoon 3
- The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
This is a huge win! It means your $29.99 copy of Super Mario Odyssey will look and play even better on your new Switch 2. It’s like getting a free remaster!
6. Black Friday Survival Guide: Pro Tips to Win the Day
Black Friday can be a chaotic mess, but with a little planning, you can walk away with all the loot and none of the stress.
Tip 1: Make a List and Check It Twice (The Budget)
Before you even look at a deal, decide exactly what you need and what you’re willing to spend.
- Console: Switch 2 Bundle or Original Switch?
- Games: Which 3-5 titles are your absolute must-haves?
- Accessories: Do you need a Pro Controller, a case, or a MicroSD card?
Stick to your list! The shiny, non-discounted Kirby Air Riders can wait.
Tip 2: Price Alerts are Your Best Friend
Use online tools and retailer apps to set price alerts for the specific items you want. Sites like CamelCamelCamel (for Amazon) or the official retailer apps can notify you the second a price drops. Don’t rely on checking the page every five minutes—let the tech do the work!
Tip 3: The “Fake Discount” Trap
Be wary of deals that look too good to be true. Some retailers will inflate the “original price” to make the discount look bigger. This is the “Don’t Fall for Fake Discounts” rule. Always check the historical price of an item before you buy. If a game is always $49.99, a drop to $39.99 is good, but a claim of “75% off” from a fictional $120 price tag is a red flag.
Tip 4: Sign Up for Loyalty Programs
If you’re shopping at Best Buy, Target, or Walmart, make sure you’re signed up for their free loyalty programs (like My Best Buy or Target Circle). You might get early access to deals or earn extra rewards points on your purchases.
Tip 5: The Digital vs. Physical Debate
This is a classic gamer debate. For Black Friday, here’s the breakdown:
- Physical Games: Better for the big, first-party titles (the $29.99 and $39.99 tiers). You can trade them in later or lend them to friends.
- Digital Games (eShop): Better for convenience, smaller indie titles, and the Cyber Deals sale. You can start playing instantly.
I recommend buying the big first-party games physically for the best price and using the eShop sale to fill out your digital library with smaller titles.
7. The Future is Now: Switch 2 Upgrade Packs and New Games
The Black Friday announcements also gave us a peek into the future of the Nintendo ecosystem.
The Upgrade Pack Concept
Nintendo is introducing “upgrade packs” for select original Switch games, allowing you to pay a fee to get enhanced features on the Switch 2. The official announcement mentioned this for games like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.
This is a smart move by Nintendo, allowing them to monetize the new hardware’s capabilities while respecting the original purchase. It’s something to keep in mind if you already own a massive Switch library.
New Titles to Watch
The announcements also highlighted new and upcoming titles that will define the Switch 2’s early life:
- Donkey Kong Bananza
- Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
- Kirby Air Riders (Upcoming)
- Metroid Prime 4: Beyond – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Upcoming)
While these aren’t on sale, they are the reason you’re buying the new console, and the Black Friday deals on accessories and older games will help you save money for these future purchases.
8. Visualizing the Savings: A Markdown Table Summary
To make your shopping list easy to digest, here is a summary of the confirmed, must-have deals. Print this out, save it to your phone, and thank me later!
| Category | Item | Black Friday Price | Savings/Value | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Console | Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle | $499.99 | Free/Discounted Game | Select Retailers |
| Game (Tier 1) | Super Mario Odyssey | $29.99 | $30 Off (50%) | Select Retailers (Physical) |
| Game (Tier 1) | Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door | $29.99 | $30 Off (50%) | Select Retailers (Physical) |
| Game (Tier 2) | The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom | $39.99 | $20 Off (33%) | Select Retailers (Physical) |
| Accessory | Samsung MicroSD Express Card | $20 Off MSRP | Essential for Switch 2 | Select Retailers (Starts Nov. 30) |
| Accessory | Select amiibo Figures | $10 Off MSRP | Great for Collectors | Select Retailers |
| Digital | Star Wars Outlaws (Switch 2) | $39.99 | $20 Off | Nintendo eShop (Nov. 20 - Dec. 3) |
9. Final Thoughts: Get Ready to Game!
Black Friday 2025 is shaping up to be one of the best years yet for Nintendo fans. The combination of the new Switch 2 console, incredible bundles, and deep discounts on the best first-party games makes this a can’t-miss event.
Remember the golden rules: Plan, Prioritize, and Pounce! Don’t get distracted by the noise. Focus on those core deals—the console bundle, the $29.99 games, and the essential storage.
Good luck out there, and may your shopping cart be full and your wallet only slightly empty! Happy gaming!
10. The Ultimate Black Friday Checklist (A Quick Recap)
To ensure you don’t miss a beat, here is your final, actionable checklist for Black Friday 2025. Treat this like your treasure map to the best Nintendo deals!
- Set Your Budget: Determine your absolute maximum spend and stick to it.
- Prioritize the Console: If buying the Switch 2, target the Mario Kart World Bundle for the best value. If buying the original Switch, look for retailer-specific bundles (Walmart/Target) for the deepest discounts.
- Game Time: Buy the $29.99 Tier games (Super Mario Odyssey, Paper Mario, Splatoon 3) first. They are the best value and are future-proofed with the Switch 2.
- Storage is Key: If you get the Switch 2, plan to buy the Samsung MicroSD Express Card (on sale Nov. 30). If you get the original, look for a standard 512GB MicroSD card deal.
- Upgrade Your Control: Look for a Pro Controller deal (official or high-quality third-party) to enhance your long-session gaming.
- Retailer Strategy:
- Target: Look for the Gift Card with Purchase deals.
- Walmart: Be ready for the Door-Buster console deals.
- Amazon: Check for Lightning Deals on accessories and price-matching on games.
- Digital Hunt: Check the eShop Cyber Deals starting November 20th for indie games and third-party titles.
- Act Fast: The best deals, especially the physical bundles and door-busters, are limited in quantity. Have your payment information saved and be ready to click “Buy Now.”
11. Final Thoughts: Get Ready to Game!
Black Friday 2025 is shaping up to be one of the best years yet for Nintendo fans. The combination of the new Switch 2 console, incredible bundles, and deep discounts on the best first-party games makes this a can’t-miss event.
Remember the golden rules: Plan, Prioritize, and Pounce! Don’t get distracted by the noise. Focus on those core deals—the csole bundle, the $29.99 games, and the essential storage.
Good luck out there, and may your shopping cart be full and your wallet only slightly empty! Happy gaming!