The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition Switch 2 features multiple exclusive color schemes, but its original appearance may not be preserved after repairs. Japanese product packaging includes a warning stating that these products use special specifications and may be repaired using parts from standard-colored models.
Detailed report from foreign media:
The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition Switch 2 console and accessories feature unique designs. Unfortunately, Nintendo will not supply identical replacement parts indefinitely. Joy-Con 2 controllers, the dock, and the Pro Controller are more prone to damage than screens and batteries in other versions.
Although the release date has passed, many fans still haven't been able to purchase the 40th Anniversary Edition Zelda Switch 2 console. Those who have bought this console may not have considered future repair issues. Nintendo warns that this device and its accessories feature special designs, and replacement parts matching the original colors may become increasingly scarce.
Nintendo Patents Watch shared a warning found on the Japanese packaging for the Zelda Switch 2 console and Pro Controller. Nintendo stated that both products are "limited-edition items with special specifications." If repairs are needed, Nintendo may use parts from standard-colored models.
This warning does not appear to be present on North American or European packaging. The account suggests this may simply be due to lack of space on the packaging. However, this is not a new policy. Nintendo's factory repair service terms for US customers include a similar disclaimer. The page explicitly states that refurbished replacement parts "may be assembled with new housings."
The green and gold Joy-Con 2 controllers included in the bundle are among the components more prone to reliability issues. Nintendo does not sell these special-colored controllers separately, so if replacements are needed, the original color scheme may not be preserved. Issues like stick drift, while less common than in the previous generation, may result in users having to accept replacements in different colors if the controllers are severely damaged and unrepairable.
The 40th Anniversary Edition Pro Controller, available in three colors, and the black-and-gold dock face the same issue. If special-colored parts are insufficient, repairs may use standard-colored replacements. As for internal components like screens, cooling fans, and batteries, these are not unique to this anniversary edition Zelda Switch 2 console.
In the EU, this Zelda Switch 2 console lacks an advantage found in recently revised models. To comply with right-to-repair regulations, standard consoles now feature batteries that are easier to replace. Nintendo previously warned that this limited-edition hardware would not adopt this design. However, some retailers have listed updated versions with product information inconsistent with Nintendo's statements.
How long Nintendo continues to produce these commemorative devices will directly impact future repair availability. The Tears of the Kingdom Edition Switch OLED was first released in April 2023 and remained in stock until 2024. It is likely no longer in production, but due to its long sales period, Nintendo had the opportunity to stockpile a certain number of replacement parts.