Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller Box Contains Old Model in Scam
▼ Summary
– A buyer reported receiving an original Switch Pro Controller inside a Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller box purchased from Amazon.
– Evidence suggests the item was a processed return, indicating a previous customer may have swapped the controllers.
– The buyer was able to return the item and receive a refund from Amazon.
– This incident highlights a known returns scam in online retail, where expensive tech items are vulnerable to substitution.
– While the controllers look similar, the Switch 2 model is more expensive and includes exclusive features like remappable rear buttons.
Online shoppers looking for the new Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller should exercise caution. A recent report from a buyer alleges they received an older model inside the sealed box, highlighting a potential risk with certain online purchases. The customer detailed their experience on Reddit, explaining they purchased what was advertised as a new controller from Amazon, only for the recipient to discover an original Nitch Switch Pro Controller inside the packaging.
The user, posting under the name ‘OutcastKatarn02’, included photographic evidence showing the Switch 2 Pro Controller box alongside the older controller found within. A key detail lending credibility to the claim is a white ‘LPN’ sticker visible on the box, which is commonly used by the retailer to mark processed returns. This suggests the item was previously sent back to the warehouse after a customer swapped the new controller for the old one.
This type of returns scam is an unfortunate reality in e-commerce, particularly with high-value electronics where components can look similar. The two Nintendo controllers share a nearly identical design, making such a substitution difficult to spot during a routine returns inspection. Other companies, like Corsair, have redesigned packaging with tamper-evident labels specifically to combat this fraudulent practice.
While the exterior designs are alike, the Switch 2 Pro Controller commands a higher price, retailing at $84.99, and includes several next-generation features. These upgrades include remappable rear inputs, a dedicated GameChat button, and a built-in 3.5mm headphone jack, none of which are available on the original model.
In this specific case, the buyer reported a positive resolution, stating that Amazon accepted the return and issued a full refund. It is crucial to note, however, that this appears to be an isolated incident rather than evidence of a widespread trend. No further credible reports have surfaced linking this to a larger scam operation.
For consumers purchasing this or any premium tech product online, it is wise to thoroughly inspect the item upon arrival. Checking for any signs of resealing or verifying the contents against the product description can help ensure you receive the genuine article you paid for.
(Source: TechRadar)
