If you were hoping to find the Nintendo Switch 2 Mario Kart World bundle under the tree this year, you may need to move fast. According to a leaked internal GameStop memo, Nintendo has officially ended production for the popular bundle just six months after its June 2025 launch.
The memo clarifies that future restocks will focus solely on the $449 base console. While existing stock is still trickling through retailers, once these units are sold, they will not be replaced.
Where to Find the Bundle Now
Despite the production halt, you haven't missed out quite yet. As of late December, the bundle is still appearing at select retailers, often at a significant discount that makes the software practically free.
Best Buy: Currently offering the bundle for $449.99, matching the price of the standalone console. This effectively includes Mario Kart World (an $80 value) for free.
Pokemon Bundle: The Pokemon Legends: Z-A Switch 2 bundle is still available in limited quantities, though it is expected to follow a similar "limited-run" lifecycle.
Standard Units: Moving into 2026, the $449 base unit will become the standard shelf option.
Why Console Prices Might Rise in 2026
Waiting for a price drop in the new year might be a risky strategy. The gaming industry is currently grappling with a massive DRAM shortage driven by the demand for AI data centers.
Memory prices have quadrupled since October 2025, significantly squeezing hardware margins. This follows a trend from earlier this year when Nintendo raised the price of the original Switch from $299 to $339 to offset new tariffs. While Nintendo has kept the Switch 2 at $449 for now, industry analysts warn that a price hike in 2026 is a strong possibility if component costs don't stabilize.
Will the Bundle Ever Return?
History suggests that while this specific launch-window bundle is ending, it might not be gone forever. Nintendo famously made the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe bundle a staple of the original Switch's holiday strategy for seven years. It is highly likely that a similar Mario Kart World offer will resurface during future Black Friday or holiday seasons, though likely at a higher price point once current "introductory" stock is depleted.
Would you like me to track the availability of the Pokemon Legends: Z-A bundle at other major retailers like Target or Amazon?
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