Nintendo Games Black Friday Deals: What To Expect

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Do Nintendo Games Go on Sale for Black Friday?

Black Friday is just around the corner, and gamers everywhere are eagerly anticipating potential deals on their favorite Nintendo games. Do Nintendo games go on sale for Black Friday? This is the question on everyone's mind. The answer, thankfully, is often yes! However, it's not always as straightforward as other platforms or retailers. Let’s dive into what you can typically expect and how to maximize your chances of snagging some sweet deals.

Historical Trends: Nintendo Black Friday Sales

To get a good idea of what to expect this year, let's look at historical trends. In past Black Friday sales, Nintendo has offered deals in a few different ways. One common approach is to bundle hardware with a popular game. For example, you might find a Nintendo Switch console packaged with a game like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe or Animal Crossing: New Horizons. These bundles often provide significant savings compared to buying the console and game separately. Keep an eye out for these bundles, as they tend to be some of the most attractive deals available.

Another trend we've seen is discounts on select first-party Nintendo games. While Nintendo-published titles don't always see deep discounts, some of the older, yet still incredibly popular, games may have modest price cuts. Games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, various Pokémon titles, and older Super Mario games have been known to get a slight price reduction. These discounts are usually around $10-$20 off the regular price, making it a good opportunity to pick up a game you've been waiting to play.

Third-party Nintendo Switch games also frequently go on sale during Black Friday. Many retailers offer substantial discounts on a wide variety of games from other publishers. You can often find great deals on titles like Minecraft, Just Dance, and various LEGO games. These discounts can sometimes be as high as 50% off, so it's definitely worth checking out the selection.

Keep in mind that stock can be limited, especially for the most popular games and bundles. Black Friday deals often sell out quickly, so it's essential to be prepared and act fast when you see a deal you want. Many retailers start their Black Friday sales early, sometimes even a week or more before the actual day. So, stay vigilant and monitor your favorite stores for early deals.

Where to Find the Best Nintendo Black Friday Deals

Knowing where to look is half the battle. Several major retailers are known for offering Nintendo Black Friday deals. Here are some of the best places to check:

  • Amazon: Amazon is a major player in Black Friday sales and typically offers a wide range of deals on Nintendo games, consoles, and accessories. Keep an eye on their lightning deals and daily deals for limited-time offers.
  • Best Buy: Best Buy is another excellent retailer to watch. They often have competitive prices on Nintendo Switch consoles and games. Check their website and in-store flyers for the latest deals.
  • Walmart: Walmart is known for offering some of the lowest prices on Black Friday. They typically have deals on Nintendo Switch bundles and a selection of discounted games.
  • Target: Target is another great option for Black Friday deals. They often offer Target Gift Card promotions with the purchase of a Nintendo Switch or select games.
  • GameStop: GameStop is a dedicated gaming retailer and usually has a variety of deals on both new and pre-owned Nintendo games and accessories.
  • Nintendo eShop: Don't forget to check the Nintendo eShop for digital game deals. Nintendo often offers discounts on digital versions of their games during Black Friday. This can be a convenient way to snag a deal without having to leave your house.

Tips for Maximizing Your Savings

To make the most of Black Friday and ensure you get the Nintendo deals you want, here are some helpful tips:

  1. Make a List: Before Black Friday arrives, make a list of the games and accessories you want to buy. This will help you stay focused and avoid impulse purchases.
  2. Do Your Research: Research the regular prices of the items on your list. This will help you determine if a Black Friday deal is truly a good value.
  3. Compare Prices: Check prices at multiple retailers to ensure you're getting the best deal. Don't assume that the first price you see is the lowest.
  4. Set a Budget: Determine how much you're willing to spend on Black Friday and stick to your budget. It's easy to get carried away with all the enticing deals.
  5. Be Prepared to Act Fast: Black Friday deals often sell out quickly, so be ready to make a purchase when you see a deal you want. Have your payment information and shipping address ready to go.
  6. Sign Up for Email Newsletters: Subscribe to email newsletters from your favorite retailers. This way, you'll be among the first to know about Black Friday deals and promotions.
  7. Follow Social Media: Follow retailers on social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook. They often announce Black Friday deals and offer exclusive promotions to their followers.
  8. Check for Bundles: As mentioned earlier, Nintendo often offers console and game bundles during Black Friday. These bundles can provide significant savings compared to buying the items separately.
  9. Consider Pre-Owned Games: If you're on a tight budget, consider buying pre-owned games. GameStop and other retailers often offer discounts on used games during Black Friday.
  10. Read the Fine Print: Before making a purchase, be sure to read the fine print. Pay attention to any exclusions, limitations, or return policies.

Specific Games to Watch For

While it's impossible to predict exactly which games will be on sale, here are a few titles that are likely candidates for Black Friday discounts:

  • Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: This is one of the best-selling games on the Nintendo Switch, and it's often included in console bundles. Even if it's not part of a bundle, there's a good chance it will see a slight discount.
  • Animal Crossing: New Horizons: This game was a massive hit during the pandemic, and it's still incredibly popular. It may be included in bundles or offered at a reduced price.
  • The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild: This is one of the most critically acclaimed games of all time, and it's a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner. It's likely to see a discount, especially since its sequel, Tears of the Kingdom, is already out.
  • Super Mario Odyssey: This is another fantastic Mario game that's worth checking out. It may be offered at a reduced price during Black Friday.
  • Pokémon Sword and Shield: These Pokémon games are still popular among fans, and they may be discounted during Black Friday.
  • Luigi's Mansion 3: This spooky and fun adventure game is a great choice for families, and it may be on sale during Black Friday.

Digital vs. Physical: Which is Better for Black Friday?

When it comes to Black Friday deals, you'll typically have the option of buying games either digitally or physically. Each format has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Digital Games:

  • Pros:
    • Convenience: You can download the game directly to your Nintendo Switch without having to leave your house.
    • No physical media: You don't have to worry about losing or damaging the game cartridge.
    • Potential for exclusive deals: Nintendo often offers discounts on digital games in the Nintendo eShop.
  • Cons:
    • Limited storage space: Digital games take up storage space on your Nintendo Switch, so you may need to purchase a microSD card.
    • No resale value: You can't resell digital games like you can with physical copies.
    • Deals may not be as deep: Digital game deals are often not as significant as those on physical games.

Physical Games:

  • Pros:
    • Resale value: You can resell physical games once you're finished playing them.
    • Tangible: Some people prefer to own physical copies of their games.
    • Often deeper discounts: Physical games often have more substantial discounts during Black Friday.
  • Cons:
    • Inconvenience: You have to go to a store or wait for the game to be shipped to you.
    • Risk of loss or damage: Physical game cartridges can be lost or damaged.
    • Takes up physical space: Physical games take up space on your shelves.

Ultimately, the choice between digital and physical games comes down to personal preference. If you value convenience and don't mind sacrificing resale value, digital games may be the way to go. If you prefer owning physical copies and want the option to resell your games, then physical games are a better choice.

Conclusion

So, do Nintendo games go on sale for Black Friday? Absolutely! While the deals may not always be as dramatic as those on other platforms, there are still plenty of opportunities to save money on Nintendo games, consoles, and accessories. By doing your research, comparing prices, and being prepared to act fast, you can snag some fantastic deals and add to your Nintendo collection. Happy shopping, and may the odds be ever in your favor this Black Friday!