Nintendo is preparing a new Nintendo Switch bundle that pairs the original console with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe for just $199.99, according to the company's official store. The move signals that Nintendo isn't ready to retire its first-generation hardware even as the Switch 2 continues to build momentum with exclusive and third-party titles.
The bundle is expected to launch soon and includes the game in physical format, a detail that sets it apart from many current console offerings. For budget-conscious gamers, this could be one of the most attractive entry points into the Switch ecosystem this year.
Why Nintendo Is Releasing a Budget Switch Bundle Now
Nintendo's decision to launch a new bundle for the original Switch appears to be a strategic move to clear remaining inventory. The company has reportedly decided not to produce a model with a removable battery for the first-generation Switch, aligning with European regulations. That leaves existing stock that needs to move, and bundling it with a system-selling game is a proven way to do it.

The timing also makes sense given the current console landscape. Sony's PlayStation has seen a shift away from physical media, which has frustrated some players. By including Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on a cartridge, Nintendo is appealing directly to gamers who still value owning a physical copy they can share, resell, or simply display on a shelf.
What You Get in the Bundle
The package includes the standard Nintendo Switch console—the original model, not the OLED or Lite versions—and a physical copy of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. That game has been a staple of the Switch library since 2017 and remains one of the platform's best-selling titles, thanks to its accessible racing mechanics and robust multiplayer modes.
At $199.99, the bundle undercuts the typical standalone price of the console and effectively gives buyers the game at a significant discount. For families looking to add a second console for multiplayer sessions, or for newcomers who have never owned a Switch, this is a low-risk way to jump in.
- Console: Original Nintendo Switch (first generation)
- Game: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe in physical format
- Price: $199.99
- Availability: Expected soon via Nintendo's official store
- Target audience: Budget shoppers, families, and physical-media fans
How the Bundle Compares to Other Switch Options
Nintendo now offers several ways to buy into the Switch family, and the new bundle sits at the value end of the spectrum. The table below compares the key options based on current market positioning and features.
| Option | Approx. Price | Included Game | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Switch bundle (original) | $199.99 | Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (physical) | Lowest entry price with a top game |
| Standalone Switch (original) | ~$299.99 | None | Console only |
| Switch OLED | ~$349.99 | None | Larger, brighter screen |
| Switch Lite | ~$199.99 | None | Handheld-only design |
The bundle's main competition is the Switch Lite, which is also priced around $199.99 but lacks TV output and doesn't include a game. For anyone who wants to play on a big screen and get a flagship title in the box, the new bundle is the clearer value.
Who Should Consider This Bundle
This bundle is ideal for gamers who have been waiting for a price drop before buying a Switch. It's also a strong option for parents who want a ready-to-play gift that includes a game everyone in the family can enjoy. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe supports up to four players locally and eight online, making it a natural fit for group settings. Context on how this played out before sits in How to Edit Photos for Free in Google Gemini Using Nano Banana.
Collectors who prefer physical media will appreciate that the game comes on a cartridge rather than a download code. That means it can be lent out, traded in, or kept as part of a permanent library—a small but meaningful advantage in an increasingly digital market. The background to this story is set out in MediaMarkt Outlet Sale: Nintendo Switch 2 and PS Portal Deals. A related thread runs through MediaMarkt Outlet Deals: Nintendo Switch 2 and OLED From €184.
What to Watch Next
Nintendo hasn't announced an exact release date for the bundle, but it's listed as "coming soon" on the official store. Availability may vary by region, and stock could be limited given that the bundle seems designed to move existing inventory. Interested buyers should keep an eye on Nintendo's store and major retailers. Earlier coverage in Nintendo Switch 2 Deals: 300 Euro MediaMarkt Outlet and AliExpress Offer shows how the argument developed. A closer look at the same subject appears in Nintendo Switch 2 Deal: Save €100 Off New €499.99 Price on AliExpress.
Looking ahead, the bigger question is how long Nintendo will continue to support the original Switch with new bundles and first-party accessories. The company has a history of long tails for its handhelds, and with a massive installed base, there's still money to be made. For now, this bundle is a straightforward win for budget shoppers. Anyone following the wider picture can start with AliExpress Gaming Sale: Nintendo Switch 2 and More Deals. The same theme surfaces in Nintendo Profit Spike 53% from Trump Tariff Refund, which takes a different angle.
FAQ
What is included in the new Nintendo Switch bundle?
The bundle includes the original Nintendo Switch console and a physical copy of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. It does not include extra controllers or accessories beyond what normally ships with the console.
Is the game a physical cartridge or a download code?
According to the source, the bundle includes the game in physical format. That means you get a cartridge you can insert, lend, or resell, rather than a one-time download code.
When will the bundle be available and where can I buy it?
Nintendo's official store lists the bundle as "coming soon," but no exact release date has been announced. It will likely be sold through Nintendo's store and major retailers, though availability may vary by region.
Why is Nintendo releasing a bundle for the original Switch instead of the Switch 2?
Nintendo appears to be clearing remaining stock of the first-generation Switch, especially since it has decided not to produce a model with a removable battery for that generation. Bundling with a popular game helps move inventory while offering value to consumers.