‘18 hours in line’: Eager B.C. fans snap up Nintendo’s latest gaming console

Nintendo’s Switch 2 has arrived, and many eager gamers were lined up for hours to get their hands on one.

The buzz around the latest gaming console reached a peak Thursday as fans around the world, including in Metro Vancouver, got their hands on the long-awaited Nintendo Switch 2.

From Tokyo to Tallahassee, from Manhattan to Metrotown, shops worldwide planned midnight launch parties.

“Eighteen hours in line, no regrets,” said two local fans as they eagerly waited at Burnaby’s Metropolis at Metrotown mall on Wednesday night.

Nintendo is aiming for a blockbuster launch, even with a price tag starting at $629.99, plus the added cost of games and accessories.

“The last one came out so long ago; it’s just exciting,” said another customer waiting in line.

Many of the gaming enthusiasts who spoke to CTV News had already pre-ordered their consoles, but lined-up to get them even sooner.

The Switch 2 includes significant upgrades, including improved graphics, a sharper screen and more robust online capabilities.

Nintendo says one of the standout features is the ability to connect and interact with friends more seamlessly in-game.

“They’re actually seeing each other on screen and talking through the console,” said Andrew Collins of Nintendo Canada.

“It really creates a more immersive experience, which is what we strive for at Nintendo.”

Early reviews have been positive. The challenge now for Nintendo is convincing those who are skeptical about the price and are not swayed by the hype.