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What Next: TBD | Tech, power, and the future

Trump Tariffs Hit Mushroom Kingdom

Apr 11, 2025
Jason Koebler, co-founder of 404 Media, discusses the intertwining fate of gaming and politics as President Trump's tariffs complicate Nintendo's launch of the Switch 2. He delves into the potential financial strain on gamers due to increased console prices and the strategic shifts in Nintendo's manufacturing from China to Vietnam and Cambodia. Koebler also touches on the broader implications of reshoring electronics manufacturing in the U.S. and highlights how these economic changes impact both major corporations and smaller firms in the tech landscape.
27:06

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Nintendo's pricing strategy for the Switch 2 has caused significant backlash among gamers, reflecting a disconnect with consumer expectations on costs.
  • The impact of Trump's global tariff policies has compelled Nintendo to alter its manufacturing strategy, highlighting challenges for companies in navigating trade environments.

Deep dives

The Excitement and Concerns Surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2 Release

Gamers are eagerly anticipating the release of the Nintendo Switch 2, but they are expressing concerns about its pricing. The official announcement set the cost at $449, significantly higher than the original Switch's price of $299, which has led to mixed reactions among the gaming community. Many fans took to social media during a live stream following the announcement, voicing their dissatisfaction with the price through comments such as 'lower the price' and 'it's too expensive.' This feedback highlights a disconnect between consumer expectations and Nintendo's pricing strategy, especially given the excitement generated by the product's announcement.

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