Nintendo has no plans to abandon its original Nintendo Switch console even with the imminent arrival of its successor, the Nintendo Switch 2. During a recent investors' meeting, Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa affirmed the hybrid console will continue to receive support post-launch of the new console, contingent upon audience demand. This strategy aims to extend the life of the immensely popular Nintendo Switch, which has already surpassed 150 million units sold, solidifying its status as one of the most successful consoles ever.
Despite recent drops in hardware sales, the original Nintendo Switch remains vibrant within the current market. Furukawa expressed confidence, stating during the investor call, reported by Sankei, "We will continue to support the original Switch as long as consumers desire it." His assurance suggests Nintendo intends to release new titles, both from the company and developed by third-party studios, to keep the console relevant.
The announcement also follows concerns about the potential impact of the Switch 2 on sales of the original device, particularly considering the original Switch recorded a 30% decline in sales over the past year. Observers note the upcoming reveal of the Switch 2, expected to take place in April, will likely not cause significant disruption to existing Switch sales, at least for the immediate future.
According to Furukawa, the generational leap to Switch 2 will be gradual, allowing for many players to transition over time. That said, the new console aims to be backward compatible, ensuring users won't lose access to their existing game libraries. This strategy may also bolster the current Switch's relevance as Nintendo prepares for its next big push.
The staggering sales figures of the Nintendo Switch highlight its prevailing popularity even nearly eight years after its debut. During the recent holiday season, the console sold 4.82 million units alone, and since April 2024, it has accumulated sales totaling 9.54 million. This brings the all-time sales total to approximately 150.86 million units, just shy of the Nintendo DS and PlayStation 2 sales records of 154 million and 160 million, respectively.
Industry analysts suggest the compatibility of the Switch 2 with the original Switch games will likely promote sales of the new platform. This could lead to even slower sales for the current model, which is where Nintendo's upcoming new releases, like Xenoblade Chronicles X, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, and Pokémon Legends Z-A, will play pivotal roles, potentially attracting new players to the Switch ecosystem.
Overall, Nintendo's commitment to its original platform showcases the company's strategy to adapt and thrive amid the ever-evolving gaming market. The continuing demand for the Nintendo Switch hints at its lasting legacy, even as anticipation builds for what the Switch 2 will bring to gamers worldwide.