Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition targeted by scammer selling a photo for $400

Some people will do anything when they’re desperate, but in the panic of racing to get their hands on Nintendo's limited-edition 40th-anniversary Zelda-themed Switch 2, gamers are warned to check the small print.

Scalpers quickly swooped in on the September 8 launch like Ocarina of Time's annoying owl, and with the console flying off virtual shelves before it even hit them, hunting for one now is harder than completing the Water Temple.

Originally launching at $520 in the USA, Nintendo has been clever by releasing this variant as a The Legend of Zelda anniversary Switch 2 rather than one tied to the upcoming Ocarina of Time remake. While undoubtedly beautiful, it means the gaming giant doesn't need to include the Ocarina remake for that lofty $520.

Scalper is selling a $400 picture of the Zelda Switch 2

We previously covered how scalpers were making the most of our desperation, and in minutes of sales going live (and selling out just as quickly), eBay listings had promises that you could own the limited edition console...but for a considerable markup. These have reached upwards of $1,200, with us feeling like we need to tell you that no one should be paying that for something that originally cost half that price.

Even as the dust has settled on the 40th anniversary Zelda console, what few retailers who hadn't yet released their stock have slowly dried up, and by all accounts, all of them are out there in the wild.

Scalpers are set to continue profiting off desires to hold that sparkling green console in our hands, and on eBay, one listing is seemingly charging $400 for a mere picture of a console.

Reminding us why we should always check the small print, a viral post points to a listing that includes a general pre-order photo of the console. As it's not due to be released until October 29, this is what the majority of eBay listings include because even scalpers don't physically have one in their hands.

READ MORE: Nintendo's Zelda 40th anniversary limited-edition Switch 2 sells out as resellers list for $1,200

$400 for the Zelda Switch 2 seems like a bargain, but scrolling to the description, it reads: "Important: This listing is for a photograph/image only. You will not receive a Nintendo Switch 2 console, game, or any physical electronic product."

We're told that the $400 is for a 'novelty' image of the listing, with repeated warnings that this isn't a Switch 2 console.

When the listing was shared on X, people couldn't believe that anyone would fall for this, let alone that eBay would allow it.

One sceptic chuckled: "If someone falls for that, it’s their fault tbh."

Another added: "This should be considered fraud, because the intent is to mislead the customer. The disclaimer is to save face and evade liability."

A third said: "The classic eBay scam that is older than most of the people in the replies."

Others said this backs up the Dead Internet Theory, with claims that the listing is there to catch bots that scrape auction sites and look for bargain listings to resell at higher prices.

Are more Zelda Switch 2 consoles coming?

If you didn't get your shiny Zelda Switch 2 in the first run, fear not. Leave the scalpers fighting among each other because an official banner on the Nintendo Store states: "The Legend of Zelda 40th anniversary collection is currently sold out. We will announce when stock is replenished via the Nintendo Store app."

You can expect the next lot to similarly sell like hotcakes, so we'd advise getting one while you can.

After all, like we saw with the limited run of Super Mario 3D All-Stars, there isn't an infinite supply.

Your best bet is to download the Nintendo Store app, where alerts will be pushed through when more become available to order.

Zelda fans can also check physical storefronts, as GameStop is allocating pre-orders in person. Finally, the likes of Amazon and Walmart are known for brief flash restocks, meaning you'd be wise to allow the wishlist or email alert functions to ensure you're the first to know when more become available.

Have faith that the 40th-anniversary Switch 2 will soon be yours without having to bend to the scalpers.

GAMINGbible has reached out to eBay for comment.