Nintendo has moved to slow down scalpers targeting the Switch 2, introducing tougher purchase rules for the multi-language version sold through its official Japanese store.

The company temporarily suspended sales of the multi-language Switch 2 after identifying multiple orders it suspected were linked to resale activity.

When sales resume, buyers will need to meet new account-based conditions designed to block bulk buyers and newly created accounts.

Under the new rules, customers must have logged at least 50 hours of playtime on the original Nintendo Switch by the end of the month. Demo software and free-to-play titles will not count toward the total.

Nintendo is also limiting purchases to one console per Nintendo Account.

The restrictions apply only to the multi-language Switch 2 sold in Japan, which has become attractive to resellers because of regional pricing differences and the weaker yen.

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Scalpers have reportedly been buying Japanese stock and reselling units overseas at higher prices while supply remains tight in other markets.

The Japan-only version of the Switch 2, which supports Japanese text and characters only, is not affected by the new requirements.

That model is less appealing to international resellers because of its limited language support.

Nintendo’s approach mirrors earlier anti-scalping measures used by other gaming companies, including account history checks and one-unit purchase limits to stop fresh accounts being used for bulk orders.

The crackdown comes as Nintendo prepares for higher Switch 2 pricing in several Western markets, including the US.

The company has previously blamed rising component costs, currency shifts and broader market conditions for hardware price increases.

Nintendo has not confirmed when the multi-language Switch 2 will return to sale on its Japanese store.