If you think the Switch 2 stock situation is bad, this essential accessory is proving to be the real white whale for gamers

The stock levels for the Nintendo Switch 2 were always going to be a problem. With all the hype Nintendo drummed up around its new portable console, it was inevitable that stores would see block-long queues and sold-out preorders when the console finally released. As such, when the console finally came out and stores were putting up "sold out" signs, it was a shame, sure, but it was also pretty inevitable.

Once people had gotten through the gauntlet of securing their Switch 2, it turns out they had only just gotten started. After all, with that precious new console in your hands, you'll want something to keep it safe, right? So, naturally, as one might expect, your first thought drifts to purchasing the Nintendo Switch 2 official carry case. But therein lies the game.

People are reporting empty shelves when trying to purchase the Nintendo Switch 2 carry case

As reported by our delightful sister website TheGamer, Switch 2 fans have been looking for the official carry case to store their shiny new console in. The only problem is, they're proving to be a tricky accessory to grab. In a thread titled "This has been more elusive than the console itself," Redditor SeaworthinessFit1924 shares an image of the official Nintendo Switch 2 case with its $39.99 price tag.

Other Nintendo fans flocked to the thread to offer their experiences and advice on picking up a case for themselves. Some arrived to tell others about which stores they found the most stock in...

...while other people entered the thread to tell people that those same stores have barren shelves for Nintendo Switch 2 accessories.

Others still took to the comments to warn others that the case is probably not worth the $39.99 price tag, and perhaps grabbing a cheaper, better-made third-party case is the way to go.

If you, too, are on the hunt for a Nintendo Switch 2 case but you can't seem to find an official one anywhere, now might be the perfect time to check out the competition instead. Our resident Nintendo enthusiast, João Carrasqueira, has been on the prowl to protect his little digital pride and joy the best way he could, and he even compiled a list of the best Nintendo Switch 2 cases out there. His personal pick is almost half the price of the official case, so it's well worth seeing what third-party retailers are doing and keeping an eye out for specific features in your new Switch 2 case.