Nintendo promises to produce enough Switch 2 to avoid a launch shortage
Nintendo is setting the stage for the highly anticipated release of its next-generation console, the Switch 2, slated for a 2025 launch. Company President Shuntaro Furukawa revealed in a recent earnings Q&A — shared via machine translation — that Nintendo is taking bold production risks to meet what it expects will be substantial demand.
We are taking risks in production in order to meet as much demand as possible - Shuntaro Furukawa
This approach follows the immensely successful launch of the original Nintendo Switch in 2017, which faced production challenges. The initial rollout saw supply constraints that prevented the console from reaching all eager fans immediately—an issue the company aims to avoid with the Switch 2.
While specific details about Switch 2 production will not be disclosed until Nintendo announces its next financial year’s business plan in April, Furukawa stated that the company will assess consumer interest following the Switch 2-themed Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2.
Like with the Nintendo Switch, we believe it will not be easy to rapidly increase production capacity, but based on our past experience, we will make preparations to respond as quickly as possible - Shuntaro Furukawa
The Q&A also provided insights into the software strategy for the new console. Furukawa highlighted the importance of “dedicated software” at launch, suggesting that Nintendo might not release a large number of new games simultaneously for both the original Switch and the Switch 2. However, the backward compatibility of Switch games with the new console could help ease the transition for users. The only confirmed title for the Switch 2 so far appears to be a new iteration of Mario Kart, though it remains unclear whether this game will also be available on the current Switch.
The cost of the Switch 2 will be revealed at the upcoming Switch 2 Direct event. Additionally, there are no plans to adjust the price of the original Switch “at this time.” Despite a general pullback on mobile apps in recent years, Nintendo continues to develop new game apps and explore innovative ways to integrate smartphones with its gaming ecosystem.
Amidst the buzz surrounding the new console, Nintendo also celebrated a major milestone during its earnings call. The original Nintendo Switch has now surpassed 150 million units sold, edging closer to surpassing the legendary Nintendo DS in total sales.
