Controversy Didn’t Slow It Down – Nintendo’s New Console Is Breaking Records
Nintendo faced one of the toughest moments in its history, yet it still managed to outdo itself. The Nintendo Switch 2 has become a complete success despite the debates that surrounded its launch. The new system is now the fastest-selling console the company has ever released.
Forecasting the commercial trajectory of the Nintendo Switch 2 was close to impossible. The system launched as the successor to one of the most successful machines in gaming history, which gave it a strong head start. At the same time, it debuted amid pricing controversies tied to both the hardware and its games, and with a launch lineup that wasn’t entirely aimed at the broadest audience. Even so, it’s now clear that the risk paid off significantly for Nintendo. In its most recent financial report, the company confirmed that it had never sold a new console this quickly before.
By the end of last December, the Nintendo Switch 2 had reached 17.37 million units sold. That number marks a major milestone for the Japanese company. Notably, it allows the new hardware to overtake the Wii U, and more importantly, to outpace the launch performance of the original Switch. This was far from easy. Beyond the previously mentioned challenges, some of last year’s key system sellers, such as Metroid Prime 4 and Pokémon Legends: Arsenicum, launched as cross-generation releases instead of full exclusives.
Looking at the latest quarter, it’s also striking that the original Nintendo Switch moved another 1.36 million units. That is an extraordinary figure considering its successor is widely available. This performance has turned the console into Nintendo’s best-selling system ever, surpassing the iconic DS. At this pace, the Switch could realistically challenge the PlayStation 2 in the race to become the most successful console of all time. If achieved, it would break a record that has stood for two decades.
Nintendo Will Soon Face Another Major Test
There are still valid concerns about the future of the Switch 2, and this time they have little to do with Nintendo’s own strategy. A RAM shortage could drive up production costs, potentially slowing sales if price increases are introduced. Even company president Shuntaro Furukawa addressed the issue. He reassured stakeholders that there is no immediate danger, but admitted the situation is being “closely monitored.” Additionally, in markets like the United States, the company is dealing with complications related to tariffs.
“This is a crucial phase for our business, as we promote the adoption of new hardware while trying to sustain the momentum of our platforms. We are proceeding while carefully evaluating the situation,” said the president of Nintendo. In that sense, the excitement surrounding the latest results is tempered by a challenging global context. It would be particularly unfortunate if this environment ultimately led to a price increase for the Nintendo Switch 2, especially for users who are still waiting to purchase the console.
Source: 3djuegos
