Nintendo Projects Switch 2 to Match Original Console’s Success with 15 Million Sales

Nintendo has set ambitious sales targets for its upcoming Switch 2 console, aiming to sell 15 million units by the end of March 2026. This projection aligns closely with the original Switch’s first-year sales performance, despite the new console's significantly higher retail price of $449.99.

The Switch 2 is scheduled for launch on June 5, 2025, giving it approximately 10 months on the market to meet Nintendo’s sales forecast. Alongside hardware sales, Nintendo expects to sell 45 million Switch 2 games during this period, indicating strong anticipated demand for software as well.

Despite a recent downturn in both hardware and software sales reported in Nintendo’s latest earnings, the company remains optimistic about the Switch 2’s market performance. It also plans to continue selling the original Switch console, forecasting 4.5 million units and over 100 million games in the upcoming year, though these figures represent a decline from previous years.

The original Switch, launched in March 2017, sold 17.79 million units worldwide in its first 13 months, surpassing Nintendo’s initial expectations. Over its lifetime, the Switch has sold more than 150 million units and is nearing the milestone of becoming Nintendo’s best-selling console, surpassing the DS.

Nintendo’s sales forecast for the Switch 2 may be conservative due to external factors such as tariffs affecting the US market. Despite the relatively high price, demand has been robust, with US preorders selling out quickly and Japan receiving 2.2 million preorder applications, far exceeding expectations.

Broader Significance and Industry Impact

Nintendo’s confidence in the Switch 2’s success highlights the enduring strength of hybrid gaming consoles in a competitive market. The company’s ability to forecast and meet consumer demand despite pricing challenges and geopolitical uncertainties demonstrates strategic resilience. For developers and businesses in the gaming ecosystem, this underscores the importance of aligning product innovation with market trends and consumer expectations.

Moreover, the strong preorder numbers suggest that brand loyalty and anticipation remain high, offering opportunities for game developers and accessory makers to capitalize on the new console’s launch. Monitoring such market signals can inform targeted marketing strategies and product development cycles.

In summary, Nintendo’s Switch 2 launch is poised to be a pivotal event in the gaming industry, with significant implications for hardware sales, game development, and consumer engagement. Staying informed on these developments enables stakeholders to make data-driven decisions and leverage emerging opportunities effectively.