Nintendo denies Amazon withdrawal in seller row

When Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders launched earlier this year, retailers across the US carried console stock – except Amazon.com, the largest online marketplace.

Industry observers repeatedly noted Amazon's puzzling absence from Switch 2 sales channels, though neither company offered explanations. Now Nintendo has directly refuted a Bloomberg report suggesting ongoing tension between the gaming giant and Amazon regarding third-party resellers.

As IGN recently reported, new first-party Nintendo titles have been conspicuously missing from Amazon.com throughout the past year, with only an anomalous Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom listing appearing sporadically. This pattern shifted slightly when Amazon began offering June 17 pre-orders for Switch 2 exclusive Donkey Kong Bananza.

However, the Switch 2 console itself and other anticipated games like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond remain unavailable for purchase or pre-order. Notably, Amazon previously removed its Switch 2 listing entirely, replacing it with a perplexing 404 error page occasionally featuring Bowser the dog.

Bloomberg's report suggested Nintendo intentionally withheld products from Amazon to combat third-party sellers importing cheaper consoles from Southeast Asia. According to sources, Amazon allegedly proposed distinguishing Nintendo-direct sales with authenticity markers – an offer reportedly declined.

Nintendo swiftly denied these claims through official channels. "There is no such fact," a company spokesperson told Tom's Hardware, adding, "We do not disclose details of negotiations or contracts with retailers."

Amazon also contradicted Bloomberg's reporting, calling its characterization of their Nintendo relationship "inaccurate."

"We're pleased to offer Nintendo products directly to customers as part of our commitment to providing exceptional selection," stated an Amazon representative – though conspicuously avoiding explanation for their currently limited Nintendo inventory.

IGN has reached out to Nintendo seeking clarification about their limited Amazon presence.