Switch 2 back in stock as shoppers weigh upgrade costs

Nintendo's Switch 2 is back in stock at major retailers after an initial sellout, and shoppers are weighing the cost of stepping into the new system's ecosystem. The hybrid console is being offered at about $449 for the standalone unit, with a bundle that includes Mario Kart World available for roughly $499. Retail listings show availability through stores including Walmart and other national retailers, with in-store pickup offered where stocks remain.

The Switch 2 ships with a larger 7.9 inch LCD display, native 1080p handheld output with support for up to 120 frames per second, and HDR support. When docked to a compatible 4K television it can output at up to 4K Ultra HD. Nintendo built in 256 gigabytes of internal storage, a substantial increase over the first-generation Switch, and introduced new JoyCon 2 controllers with magnetic attachments, larger triggers and action buttons, and updated Pro Controller features such as remappable GLGR buttons, a C Button tied to a GameChat menu, improved haptics and an audio jack.

A wave of exclusive and high-profile third-party games accompanies the launch. Mario Kart World arrived with the console, and other titles listed for the system...