In what may appear to be an unexpected move for Nintendo, the company has now launched a new Switch package in Japan which removes one of the biggest selling points of the console.
The new Nintendo Switch set includes only the console, the two Joy-Con, and their respective straps. The dock and HDMI cable used to connect to the TV are notably absent, as is the Joy-Con grip, more commonly used for playing in TV mode. More importantly, the AC adapter is also not included in the package.
The Japanese market tends to favor handheld gaming devices over ones that are connected to a TV, so it"s not entirely surprising to see a cheaper set that focuses on the mobility of the Switch. What"s harder to comprehend is the absence of the AC adapter, which will most likely force users to buy a separate one to charge the console.
The new set is only available through Nintendo"s online store in Japan and is priced at 24,980 yen, which is significantly less than the 29,980 yen price of the regular Switch package. It should be noted that the current Switch model sells for $299.99 in the U.S., and by that pricing logic, the new package should cost about $249.99. However, no announcements have been made concerning an international release.
Nintendo has been having a good run with its hybrid console in markets all over the world, so it will be interesting to see if the new set will be able to improve upon those results.
Source: Nintendo via Nintendo Everything