Walmart Promises $519 Gift Cards to Zelda Switch 2 Buyers After Preorder Cancellations, With Some Offered a Second Chance

Walmart is reportedly offering $519 gift cards to customers affected by its last-minute cancellations of the limited-edition Zelda Nintendo Switch 2 console preorders. The move follows widespread frustration among buyers who lost their reservations shortly before the console’s October 29, 2026, release.

Some affected customers have also reportedly received a second opportunity to purchase the console through restored reservations. However, it remains unclear whether Walmart will provide both forms of compensation to every customer whose preorder was canceled.

The situation highlights the challenges surrounding the limited availability of the Zelda-themed Nintendo Switch 2, with demand exceeding the supply available at several retailers.

Walmart’s $519 Gift Card Offer Follows Preorder Mistake

According to screenshots shared by gaming deals tracker Wario64 on Bluesky, Walmart has sent separate emails to customers whose Zelda Switch 2 preorders were canceled. One message reportedly acknowledges the error and explains how eligible buyers can reclaim their reservations.

The restored reservation, listed as “Exclusive Reservation,” should appear in the customer’s Walmart shopping cart. Recipients have 48 hours to complete checkout, with purchases limited to one console per customer.

Other customers have reportedly received emails promising a $519 Walmart eGift card as compensation. However, the offers appear to vary, and some buyers have reported receiving only one of the two offers. Walmart has not publicly clarified whether every affected customer will qualify for both.

The console’s US retail price was $519.99, meaning the gift card would fall just short of the original price before taxes. The offer could nevertheless cover most of the purchase cost if the customer receives the promised credit.

Limited Zelda Switch 2 Console Faces Supply Challenges

The preorder cancellations have added to the difficulties fans have encountered trying to secure the anniversary console. Reports of limited stock at multiple retailers have made finding the special edition particularly challenging around launch.

Nintendo officially announced the console on September 8, confirming its October 29 release date. The special edition features a black-and-gold dock with the iconic Triforce symbol and green-and-gold Joy-Con 2 controllers.

The launch also precedes the November 5 release of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time for Nintendo Switch 2, adding to interest in the franchise’s anniversary celebrations. For customers affected by Walmart’s cancellations, the immediate priority is checking the email address associated with the original order and reviewing their Walmart accounts. Anyone who receives an Exclusive Reservation should pay particular attention to the 48-hour deadline.

For now, the compensation remains based on reported customer emails. The number of eligible buyers and the final distribution of gift cards have not been established publicly.