"Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour: A Paid Experience"

Nintendo has unveiled the Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour, an innovative digital game designed to introduce players to the new features and capabilities of the forthcoming Nintendo Switch 2. Contrary to expectations, this game will not be included as a pack-in with the console but will instead be available as a separate, paid digital title on the Nintendo eShop, launching on the same day as the Switch 2.

During the recent Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, the Welcome Tour was described as a "virtual exhibition" that offers an in-depth exploration of the new hardware. Nintendo promises that through tech demos, minigames, and interactive elements, players will gain a comprehensive understanding of the Switch 2, uncovering details they might not have discovered otherwise.

Footage from the Direct showcased a player avatar navigating a larger-than-life representation of the Switch 2, engaging with informative displays about its features. The game resembles a virtual museum but also includes playful minigames such as Speed Golf, Dodge the Spiked Balls, and a Maracas Physics Demo, adding an element of fun to the educational experience.

Nintendo confirmed via stream and press release that the Switch 2 Welcome Tour will be available for purchase on the Nintendo eShop starting on the Switch 2's launch day. While the concept is intriguing, some fans expressed surprise and disappointment that this educational tool is not a free inclusion with the new console. As of now, no specific price has been announced for the Welcome Tour.

In addition to the Welcome Tour, the Nintendo Switch 2 will launch with a robust lineup of games, including Mario Kart World, Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster, and Deltarune Chapters 1 through 4. This diverse selection may compete with the Welcome Tour for consumer spending, especially given the stretched budgets many gamers face.

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

For those who missed the announcements, a comprehensive recap of the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct is available for review, ensuring you stay updated on all the latest news and features of the upcoming console.