Nintendo Black Friday Deals: What To Expect

Hey everyone! The holiday season is fast approaching, and for gamers, that means one thing: Black Friday deals! If you're a Nintendo fan, you're probably wondering, "Do Nintendo games actually go on sale during Black Friday?" The short answer is: Yes, absolutely! But, like everything else in the world of Black Friday, there's a bit more to it than meets the eye. You've got to know where to look, what to expect, and how to snag those deals before they disappear. So, let’s dive deep into the world of Nintendo Black Friday sales, shall we?

Understanding Nintendo's Black Friday Strategy

Okay, so Nintendo is a bit…unique when it comes to sales. Unlike some other companies that slash prices left and right, Nintendo tends to be a little more strategic. They're like the cool kid who doesn't need to shout to get attention. Their games and consoles are just that popular. Because of this popularity, you might not see the crazy deep discounts you find on other platforms. Don't be disheartened! Nintendo's approach often involves bundling deals and special editions that can offer fantastic value.

Bundles are your best friend. Nintendo often releases special bundles for Black Friday that include a console (like the Switch) along with a popular game or two, and maybe even a subscription to Nintendo Switch Online. These bundles are an excellent way to get everything you need in one fell swoop while saving some cash. Keep an eye out for these – they tend to be the hottest items and sell out quickly.

Digital vs. Physical: Another thing to consider is whether you prefer digital or physical games. While physical games can often be found at discounted prices at retailers like Best Buy, Target, and Walmart, the Nintendo eShop also participates in Black Friday with digital sales. Sometimes, you can find some surprisingly good deals on digital titles, especially indie games. However, first-party Nintendo titles (like Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon) tend to see smaller discounts, whether physical or digital. So, manage your expectations accordingly!

First-Party vs. Third-Party: Speaking of first-party titles, it’s crucial to understand the difference between those and third-party games. First-party games are made by Nintendo themselves, while third-party games are made by other developers for the Nintendo platform. Generally, you'll see steeper discounts on third-party games during Black Friday. If you're looking to expand your game library without breaking the bank, focusing on third-party titles is a smart move. Games like Assassin's Creed, LEGO games, and Minecraft often see significant price drops.

Where to Find the Best Nintendo Black Friday Deals

Alright, now that you know what to expect, let's talk about where to find these elusive deals. Black Friday is like a treasure hunt – you need to know where to dig!

Major Retailers: Your first stop should be the usual suspects: Best Buy, Target, and Walmart. These retailers are known for offering some of the best Black Friday deals on Nintendo products. They usually release their Black Friday ads weeks in advance, so keep an eye out for those. Scour those ads like you're searching for hidden treasure! Look for deals on consoles, games, and accessories. Remember, these deals are often limited-time offers and available while supplies last, so plan your shopping strategy accordingly.

Amazon: Ah, Amazon, the king of online shopping. Amazon is another excellent place to find Nintendo Black Friday deals. They often match the prices of other major retailers and sometimes even offer exclusive deals of their own. Plus, shopping from the comfort of your couch in your pajamas? Yes, please! Keep an eye on Amazon's Lightning Deals, which are limited-time offers that can pop up unexpectedly. However, be quick – they disappear in a flash!

Nintendo eShop: Don't forget about the Nintendo eShop! As mentioned earlier, the eShop participates in Black Friday with digital sales. While you might not see huge discounts on first-party titles, you can often find some great deals on indie games and older titles. Plus, the convenience of downloading games directly to your Switch is a major bonus. Check the eShop regularly leading up to Black Friday to see what deals are on offer.

GameStop: If you're a fan of pre-owned games, GameStop is worth checking out. They often have Black Friday deals on used games and consoles, which can be a great way to save money. Plus, GameStop sometimes offers trade-in deals, allowing you to trade in your old games and consoles for credit towards new purchases. It's like turning your old stuff into new treasures!

Other Retailers: Don't limit yourself to just the big names! Keep an eye on other retailers like Costco, Sam's Club, and even smaller local game stores. Sometimes, these smaller retailers offer unexpected deals that can be even better than what you find at the major chains. It pays to do your research and explore all your options.

Tips for Snagging the Best Deals

Okay, you know where to look, but how do you actually get those sweet, sweet deals? Black Friday shopping can be a competitive sport, but with a little planning and strategy, you can come out on top.

Do Your Research: Before Black Friday even arrives, do your research. Know which games and consoles you want, and track their prices in the weeks leading up to Black Friday. This will help you identify which deals are actually good and which are just marketing hype. Use price tracking websites and apps to monitor prices and get alerts when they drop.

Make a List: Create a list of the items you want to buy and prioritize them. This will help you stay focused and avoid impulse purchases. Black Friday is filled with tempting deals, but it's easy to get sidetracked and end up buying things you don't really need. Stick to your list and avoid those impulse buys!

Shop Early: Many retailers start their Black Friday sales early, sometimes even weeks before the actual day. Keep an eye out for these early deals and take advantage of them while you can. The earlier you start shopping, the better your chances of snagging the items you want before they sell out.

Shop Online: Shopping online is often easier and less stressful than battling the crowds in physical stores. Plus, many online retailers offer the same deals as their brick-and-mortar counterparts. However, be sure to check shipping costs and delivery times before making a purchase. Sometimes, the shipping costs can negate the savings from the deal.

Be Prepared to Act Fast: Black Friday deals often sell out quickly, so you need to be prepared to act fast. Have your credit card information saved on your computer or phone, and be ready to click that "buy" button as soon as you see a deal you want. Hesitation can be costly!

Follow Social Media: Follow your favorite retailers on social media. They often announce exclusive deals and promotions on their social media channels. Plus, you can sometimes find out about deals before they're officially announced. Social media is your friend!

What Nintendo Products to Look Out For

So, what specific Nintendo products should you be on the lookout for during Black Friday? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Nintendo Switch Bundles: As mentioned earlier, Nintendo Switch bundles are always a hot item during Black Friday. Look for bundles that include a console along with a popular game or two, and maybe even a subscription to Nintendo Switch Online. These bundles offer excellent value and are a great way to get everything you need in one package.

Popular First-Party Games: While first-party Nintendo games don't usually see huge discounts, you can sometimes find deals on older titles or games that have been out for a while. Keep an eye out for deals on games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.

Third-Party Games: Third-party games often see significant discounts during Black Friday. Look for deals on games like Assassin's Creed, LEGO games, Minecraft, and other popular titles. These games can be a great way to expand your game library without breaking the bank.

Accessories: Don't forget about accessories! Black Friday is a great time to stock up on extra controllers, memory cards, carrying cases, and other accessories for your Nintendo Switch. These items often see significant discounts during Black Friday, so take advantage of the savings.

Black Friday is Your Friend!

So, do Nintendo games go on sale for Black Friday? Absolutely! With a little planning and strategy, you can snag some amazing deals on Nintendo consoles, games, and accessories. Remember to do your research, shop early, and be prepared to act fast. And don't forget to have fun! Black Friday shopping can be stressful, but it can also be exciting and rewarding. So, grab your shopping list, charge up your devices, and get ready to score some amazing Nintendo deals! Happy hunting, gamers!