"Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour: A Paid Experience"

Nintendo has unveiled the "Switch 2 Welcome Tour," an innovative digital game set to launch alongside the eagerly awaited Nintendo Switch 2. Unlike what many might expect, this isn't a complimentary pack-in title but a separate, purchasable digital game. This unique offering was highlighted during the recent Nintendo Switch 2 Direct.

The Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour is designed as a "virtual exhibition" aimed at acquainting players with the new console's features through an engaging mix of tech demos, minigames, and interactive experiences. Nintendo describes it as a way for players to "get to know the new system inside and out in ways they may never have known about otherwise." The Direct showcased a player avatar navigating a gigantic version of the Switch 2, exploring its features and learning about its capabilities. The tour includes mini-games like Speed Golf, Dodge the Spiked Balls, and a Maracas Physics Demo, transforming the experience into a sort of interactive museum.

Nintendo confirmed that the Switch 2 Welcome Tour will be available for purchase from the Nintendo eShop on the Switch 2's launch day. While the concept is intriguing, it has sparked curiosity among fans about why it's a paid digital game rather than a free pack-in with the console. As of now, no specific price has been announced for the tour.

In addition to the Welcome Tour, the Nintendo Switch 2 will launch with other titles such as Mario Kart World, Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster, and Deltarune Chapters 1 through 4. This diverse lineup will give gamers plenty of options, though the additional cost of the Welcome Tour might stretch some budgets on launch day.

The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to hit the market on June 5, 2025, with a price of $449.99 USD, or $499.99 for a bundle that includes Mario Kart World.

To stay updated on all the announcements from today's stream, be sure to check out our comprehensive recap of the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct.