HORI’s Piranha Plant Camera Becomes Amazon Japan’s Top Nintendo Switch 2 Product

5 May 2025
Nintendo Switch 2
5 min.
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HORI’s Piranha Plant Camera Becomes Amazon Japan’s Top Nintendo Switch 2 Product

Summary:

Amazon Japan’s video game bestseller list took an unexpected twist this week. With Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders recently launching, most expected games or the console itself to shoot to the top. Instead, HORI’s quirky and colorful Piranha Plant Camera has taken the No. 1 spot. Even more surprising? There are no Nintendo Switch 2 games in the top 10. Instead, officially licensed accessories have dominated, while games like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza struggle to break the top 30. This development raises eyebrows and questions about consumer behavior, product availability, and Nintendo’s strategic use of a lottery-based hardware release. The accessory surge may signal changing purchase priorities—or just brilliant design and timing. With several Switch 2 editions of current games still pending, there’s still time for the rankings to evolve. But for now, the unexpected reign of the Piranha Plant Camera shows just how unpredictable a console launch can be.

Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders create major buzz

The gaming world lit up the moment Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders went live on Amazon Japan. Gamers flooded the site, eager to secure their piece of Nintendo’s next-generation magic. Yet despite this overwhelming interest, the console itself remains notably absent from the top rankings. Why? Nintendo’s unique decision to distribute the Switch 2 hardware through a lottery and invitation system is reshaping how this launch unfolds. It’s no longer about who clicks first—it’s about who gets lucky. This move has shifted immediate consumer attention toward what they can actually buy right now: accessories.

A surprise bestseller emerges on Amazon Japan

Among all the early-release products tied to the Switch 2, one item soared above the rest—and it wasn’t what anyone expected. HORI’s Piranha Plant Camera, a quirky piece of gear shaped like the iconic Mario enemy, has become the bestselling video game product on Amazon Japan as of April 26, 2025. It’s eye-catching, fun, and surprisingly functional. The whimsical design taps into nostalgia while offering something practical for the new console, making it an irresistible choice for fans eager to accessorize while they wait for their console orders to come through.

Why accessories dominate over Switch 2 games

The absence of Nintendo Switch 2 games in the top 10 might seem baffling at first, especially during the early hype of a new console cycle. But the explanation is fairly straightforward: timing and accessibility. While accessories are readily available and shipping now, most Switch 2 games haven’t officially launched or are being reserved for bundle deals and special releases. Moreover, many players are holding off on buying software until they know exactly when their hardware will arrive. That leaves a gap—one that accessories are more than happy to fill.

The success of HORI’s Piranha Plant Camera

What makes HORI’s camera such a runaway hit? For starters, the design is undeniably charming. It blends form and function, giving fans something that feels fun but also adds practical value. It’s not just a collectible—it’s a real tool. On top of that, HORI is a trusted name in accessories, with a long-standing relationship with Nintendo. Their reputation for quality gave consumers confidence. Add to that the novelty factor of a Piranha Plant-themed camera, and you’ve got a recipe for viral success.

Top 10 video game products on Amazon Japan

Here’s how the current rankings play out on Amazon Japan:

  1. HORI Piranha Plant Camera (NS2)
  2. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 (PS5)
  3. Keys Factory SCREEN GUARD (NS2)
  4. Tamagotchi Plaza (Switch)
  5. Nintendo Switch 2 Camera (NS2)
  6. Switch 2 Carrying Case + Screen Protector (NS2)
  7. HUNDRED LINE (Switch)
  8. Super Mario Party Jamboree (Switch)
  9. Minecraft (Switch)
  10. HORI Easy-to-Paste Screen Protector (NS2)

This eclectic mix showcases not only strong brand loyalties but also how preparation for a console launch often favors accessories and existing IPs.

Where are the Nintendo Switch 2 games?

Oddly enough, not a single Nintendo Switch 2-specific game made it into the top 10 list. That’s not because they’re unpopular—it’s more about availability. Many games haven’t officially launched or aren’t available for direct sale due to bundling strategies. For example, the anticipated title Mario Kart World is only included in certain hardware packages, making it less visible in standalone sales charts. This tactic may encourage larger purchases but temporarily reduces chart visibility for individual game SKUs.

High-ranking Switch 2 accessories explained

Beyond the camera, several other accessories have cracked the top 10. Items like screen guards and carrying cases offer quick, low-cost ways to invest in the Switch 2 experience while waiting for the system itself. These accessories also tend to be evergreen—they’re just as relevant today as they will be in a year. For many customers, it’s a low-risk way to join the excitement of the launch season without committing to a full hardware purchase right away.

Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza rankings

Mario Kart World currently sits at No. 36 in the top 100 bestsellers, while Donkey Kong Bananza lands at No. 55. Both titles are Switch 2 exclusives (or bundled options) that fans have been eagerly awaiting. Their relatively low positions could be misleading. Bundled sales don’t always show up on individual product rankings, and many gamers are waiting to grab these titles alongside their console once the hardware becomes readily available. So don’t count them out just yet.

Understanding Nintendo’s lottery system for Switch 2

Instead of the traditional pre-order chaos, Nintendo has opted for a more controlled approach. Through a lottery and invitation-based process, they’re managing demand and reducing scalping risks. While this makes the product rollout more fair, it also means fewer immediate hardware sales—and by extension, fewer game purchases. Gamers are cautious. They want to ensure they’ll actually receive the console before investing in software they might not be able to use right away.

What this means for Nintendo’s product strategy

Nintendo’s unconventional release strategy seems to be paying off—at least in terms of engagement and conversation. Accessories are flying off the shelves, brand loyalty is peaking, and even though game sales are lagging on the charts, anticipation remains high. The buzz surrounding the Piranha Plant Camera proves that creative design and good timing can sometimes matter more than the product itself. While the Switch 2 console and its full lineup of titles are still ramping up, the early indicators suggest a strong and steady launch ahead.

Conclusion

The dominance of accessories like HORI’s Piranha Plant Camera in the early stages of the Nintendo Switch 2 release tells a fascinating story. It’s not just about what sells—it’s about when, how, and why. Nintendo’s decision to limit console access via a lottery system has completely reshaped consumer behavior, pushing fans toward available peripherals. While some might see this as a hiccup in traditional launch cycles, it’s actually a clever way to build momentum and manage expectations. And if the charts are any indication, fans are more than willing to buy in—literally—while they wait for their turn in line.

FAQs
  • Why is the HORI Piranha Plant Camera so popular?
    • Its fun design, functional use, and timing with the Switch 2 pre-orders make it an appealing choice.
  • Why aren’t Switch 2 games ranking higher on Amazon Japan?
    • Most Switch 2 games are either not released yet or are only available via console bundles.
  • How is the Nintendo Switch 2 being distributed?
    • Through a lottery or invitation system, limiting availability and preventing bulk orders.
  • Which accessories are leading in Switch 2 sales?
    • Top sellers include the HORI camera, screen protectors, and carrying cases.
  • Are games like Mario Kart World still expected to do well?
    • Yes, despite lower rankings now, these titles are anticipated to climb once consoles ship.
Sources
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