Summary

• Shawn Layden, the ex-PlayStation head, voiced his opinions on the price surge for Nintendo Switch 2 games.
• Titles like Mario Kart World are expected to cost significantly more than their predecessors on the original Switch.
• Gamers continue to debate whether such price hikes are justified or simply a cash grab.

Former PlayStation chief Shawn Layden recently shared his thoughts on the expected costs associated with the Nintendo Switch 2 and its exclusive titles from Nintendo’s rich portfolio. While the gaming console landscape is dominated by major competitors, pricing remains a critical factor for gamers when selecting a platform, and it appears that Switch 2 games are poised to become heftier financial commitments.

As the launch of the Switch 2 approaches on June 5, 2025, concerns surrounding game pricing are becoming increasingly prevalent. Notably, classics like Mario Kart will carry more expensive price tags than their original versions.

In a discussion with PlayerDriven on YouTube, Layden underscored the increased price associated with Mario Kart World, which is set at $80 for the digital edition and $90 for the physical copy, marking a price jump of $20 to $30 compared to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. While the developers think this price increase is valid, many fans feel it resembles a blatant money grab.

Layden suggests that the expansive and well-loved collection of franchises will motivate players to invest in these games, despite the steep entry fees.