Nintendo Switch 2's New Pokémon Bundle Isn't The Deal You Think It Is

Yesterday, Nintendo announced a new Nintendo Switch 2 bundle, set to arrive this fall. The game included this time is Pokémon Legends: Z-A, with the individual game and bundle releasing simultaneously on October 16. The bundle, much like the previous one with Mario Kart World, is priced at $499.99. While this is good news for prospective buyers, the console prices won’t be increasing yet—the monetary value of this new bundle is questionable.

Despite all the Switch 2’s controversies, such as the use of Game-Key Cards instead of full game cartridges and the generally higher-than-expected price tag, the device is the fastest-selling console of all time. That being said, this new Pokémon Legends: Z-A bundle is not a great deal, at least when compared to the Mario Kart World bundle.

Nintendo Switch 2’s Second Bundle Is Less Value For Money

Slightly Less Bang For Your Buck

The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition of Pokémon Legends: Z-A is priced at $69.99, while the Switch 1 version is $59.99 for fans who haven’t yet gotten a Switch 2 or have minimal interest in it right now. Mario Kart World is priced at $79.99, which caused a lot of outrage and an ineffective “drop the price” digital protest. With the upcoming Pokémon Legends: Z-A bundle also priced at $499.99, the money saved by getting the bundle is less than that of Mario Kart.

I Was Excited For Switch 2, But I’m Not Sure The Hype Can Survive A Price Hike

My excitement for the Switch 2 was already somewhat dampened by its price tag, and now it looks like it’s going to become even more expensive.

If purchased separately from the Switch 2, the total cost for the console and Mario Kart World is $579.98. This means that buying the bundle saves approximately $30, as the price difference between the Switch 2 and the bundle is $50. For Pokémon Legends: Z-A, the amount saved will be only $20, since the game itself is priced $10 cheaper. The bundled game is also a download code, so there is no physical copy for resale or trading.

Should You Buy Nintendo Switch 2’s Pokémon Bundle?

It Depends

Pokemon Legends Z-A trainer holding up their wrist to activate a Mega evolution wristband

If you plan on buying Pokémon Legends: Z-A anyway and do not currently own a Switch 2, there is little reason not to buy the new bundle in October. Just save $20. But if the Mario Kart World bundle is still available at that point, and you want that game as well, it makes more financial sense to purchase the bundle with Mario Kart World and then just buy Legends Z-A as an additional separate game, to get the most bang for your buck.

Either way, the price discrepancies between the two bundles and their overall value are relatively minor. However, in today’s world, saving just a few dollars can make all the difference. Both bundles are limited-time, and with the console shattering records, the Nintendo Switch 2 may be difficult to get this fall and into the holiday season.