Nintendo is reportedly setting ambitious goals for the launch of its new console, the Switch 2. According to early reports, the company is planning for the console to achieve better sales in its first year than the PlayStation 4 (PS4) and PlayStation 5 (PS5), in addition to surpassing its predecessors, the Nintendo Switch and Wii.
Switch 2 Production Goals
Nintendo is allegedly preparing to produce over 20 million Switch 2 units in its first year. This figure, reported by Bloomberg and attributed to Sanford C. Bernstein analyst Robin Zhu, is a significant increase from Nintendo’s initial projections for previous consoles. It also indicates confidence in the new console's potential popularity.
Historical Context
Nintendo's previous consoles have had varying levels of success at launch. For the Wii U, the initial target was 10.5 million units in the first year, which ultimately resulted in a 43% drop in sales compared to the Wii's first-year sales. Conversely, Nintendo was cautious with the Switch's launch, downplaying expectations, which led to it exceeding initial sales estimates, eventually reaching over 28 million units sold in fiscal year 2021.
Comparing with Competitors
If the Switch 2 achieves close to 20 million units sold in its first year, it would not only surpass the Wii and Switch, but also the PS4 and PS5 in their first-year sales. This signals a major competitive stance in the gaming console market.
Supply Chain Preparations
According to reports, Nintendo has already geared its supply chain to prepare for the high demand for the Switch 2 that is expected throughout 2025 and into early 2026. Nintendo has yet to officially confirm the console’s specifications, pricing, release date, or launch titles but more information is expected in April.
Source: Bloomberg
