Nintendo stock sinks in Japan, with concerns over lackluster Switch 2 games and price increase
Donkey Kong shown in front of falling Nintendo stock ticker (Image source: Nintendo of America with edits)
Earlier in 2025, Nintendo stock seemed like a safe holding for investors. It’s now fallen by more than 30% from its yearly high, making traders less optimistic about 2026. A consultant highlights anxiety over a potential Switch 2 price increase and underwhelming first-party games as factors.
Following blistering Switch 2 sales on the console’s release date, Nintendo stock surged. However, as adoption of the new handheld has dwindled, investors are showing caution. In Japan, after peaking at 14,795 yen in August, the stock is now trading at 9,950 yen. Facing a 33% drop, an industry consultant blames fears of possible price increases and a lack of exciting first-party Switch 2 games.
Dr. Serkan Toto offered his insight on social media, also noting a lack of seasonal discounts. The trend has prompted some analysts to wonder whether 2026 will be a down year for the gaming giant. Looking ahead, there is reason to worry that the company will struggle to find new buyers.
Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa recently spoke with Kyoto Shimbun about several concerns. The executive downplayed the likelihood that high memory costs would impact profits in the near term. Even though laptop makers are scrambling, the manufacturer indicated that it has prepared for the shortage. Nevertheless, with tariffs still a factor, Furukawa didn’t confirm or deny an eventual Switch 2 price increase.
No new Switch 2 games are causing soaring demand
Fans are also becoming increasingly critical of Nintendo’s upcoming lineup of titles. Former PR managers at the company, Kit & Krysta, discussed an approach that’s focused on quantity over quality. While the next year should see nine or more first-party Switch 2 games, most may not reach console seller status. Many buyers are waiting for exciting new Mario or Zelda entries to upgrade.
November and December are normally when consoles fly off shelves, but that wasn’t the case in 2025. Both the PS5 and Switch 2 experienced declines compared to past seasons. The handheld also fell behind the holiday pace of its predecessor, set in 2017. A challenging economy influenced performance, but a blockbuster release could have bolstered Nintendo.
Discounts often convince buyers to allocate precious funds to gaming hardware. Reductions so far have been rare on the Switch 2, which isn’t unusual for a new system. Even a cheaper region-free option and more resilient sales in Japan haven’t been enough to stabilize Nintendo stock.
Adam Corsetti - Tech Writer - 930 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2025
I became interested in technology at a young age and enjoyed discovering the latest innovations. While earning college degrees in publishing, I created several PC hardware and gaming websites. My passion has always been to guide readers on what products can truly improve their lives. After many years as a Tech Writer for Game Rant, I'm anxious to share my knowledge with a new audience at Notebookcheck.
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