Nintendo Switch 2: Reports of Screen Damage Due to...

The global launch of the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 on Thursday (5th) was met with widespread excitement. However, for some customers, the occasion was marred by reports of screen damage caused by mishandling during the retail process, particularly at GameStop locations.

According to a report by IGN and firsthand accounts shared on social media, the issue arose when GameStop employees stapled receipts directly onto the console’s packaging. A user identified as Oadhan on platform X (formerly Twitter) stated that the staple pierced the box and damaged the screen of his new Nintendo Switch 2. Although GameStop agreed to replace the unit, the console is currently out of stock, and the user will have to wait three months for a replacement.

@gamestop stapled the receipt for me and my friends Switch 2s to the box.

FML.#nintendo #switch2 #gamestop pic.twitter.com/AXtrgr7y0P

— Oadhan Lynch (@Oadhan) June 5, 2025

Oadhan’s photos show that the damage was not only visible on the packaging but had also penetrated the screen itself. Fortunately, the console remained operational, suggesting that the damage might be limited to the outer layer of the display.

Other users reported similar issues. A Reddit user named Konflick and another X user, Rudeboy__NYC, both claimed that their consoles suffered the same type of screen damage due to stapled receipts. These cases suggest a broader pattern of improper handling at various GameStop locations.

@gamestop Helo ! My switch 2 has staple holes in the screen. They stapled the receipt to the box at 1756 Forest Ave, Staten Island, NY 10303 and it damaged the screen. @NintendoAmerica pic.twitter.com/aqxPtRgNEs

— Rudeboy (@Rudeboy__NYC) June 5, 2025

While GameStop employees are being blamed for the mishap, criticism has also been directed at Nintendo for the design of the Switch 2’s packaging. User AncientArgonaut pointed out that the console is positioned with its screen facing upward at the top of the box, protected only by a thin layer of cardboard. This design choice makes the device more vulnerable to external pressure or accidental damage during transport and handling.

I knew this would happen – it was a weird decision by Nintendo to have the screen sit face-side-up at the very top of the box with only the thin cardboard to protect it.

You’re going to hear about a few damaged screens in the coming days. They are at risk just being stacked in… pic.twitter.com/0l9Bo7GfWR

— Jason (@AncientArgonaut) June 5, 2025

AncientArgonaut warned that more cases may emerge in the coming days, especially as boxes are often stacked for shipping or storage. The incident has sparked a conversation about retail training, product packaging, and responsibility between manufacturers and sellers.

As the Switch 2 rollout continues, both Nintendo and retailers like GameStop may face increasing pressure to address packaging vulnerabilities and implement stricter handling protocols to prevent similar issues in the future.

Filed in Gaming. Read more about Nintendo Switch.