Fans who pre-ordered the special Triforce-adorned Legend of Zelda Switch 2 consoles from Walmart have encountered further complications, with the retailer reportedly withholding stock from sale until next week. This situation escalates a pre-order saga that has already seen many customers receive cancellations just before the consoles were expected to arrive.
An internal memo circulating among Walmart employees indicates that some stores may not receive the special edition Switch 2 consoles on time due to a "supply chain delay." Workers are advised to maintain "consistent communication" with affected customers regarding the hold-up. Furthermore, systems that have reached some store locations are reportedly blocked at the point of sale, a restriction that is not expected to be lifted until November 6, a full week after the console's original launch date. This measure is intended to ensure that existing pre-orders are eventually fulfilled.
Reports from customers suggest the issues are widespread. One Reddit user described an experience where, despite consoles being in stock at their local Walmart, employees were unable to scan them. After consulting an internal memo, it was revealed that a point-of-sale block was in effect. This user also noted similar issues potentially occurring at other retailers like Target.
Adding to the confusion, some customers who pre-ordered from Walmart are still receiving cancellation notices even on the console's launch day. While some were initially told by customer service that their orders were canceled due to a "store issue," a few have subsequently received calls from Walmart's online delivery department stating that their Switch 2 orders have been secured for pickup. It remains uncertain if these customers will face the same in-store scanning and availability problems as others.
The special edition console, coinciding with the upcoming remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, has seen significant demand, exacerbating the impact of these logistical problems for eager fans. The continued delays and stock management issues at Walmart cast a shadow over the launch for many who had secured their pre-orders.