Nintendo Switch 2 Initial Shipment May Outpace Previous Console Launches
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Published on: November 20, 2024
Description
Nintendo is preparing for a significant hardware launch with its upcoming console, widely referred to as the "Switch 2." According to verified reports circulating among industry insiders and gaming forums, Nintendo's internal targets for initial shipments could set a new benchmark for console rollouts.
This development is particularly significant for Nintendo Switch fans, retailers, and the broader video game market eager to see how the company follows up its record-setting Nintendo Switch platform.
The information, first shared on Famiboards and amplified by reputable gaming communities, points to Nintendo planning to manufacture approximately 7 million units of the Switch 2 for its global launch.
This manufacturing target is around 2.5 times the number of Nintendo Switch consoles shipped at its debut in March 2017.
Nintendo confirmed that, by the end of March 2017, 2.74 million original Switch units were sold, and early shortages made it difficult for many consumers to secure a system.
This new, higher shipment goal suggests Nintendo aims to better match intense launch demand and avoid the widespread scarcity and scalping seen during previous launches.
For context within the industry, the PlayStation 4 reached 2.1 million units sold in its first two weeks on the market, while Sony's PlayStation 5 set new speed records for the company by selling 10 million units within 249 days of release—a feat that the original Switch took 282 days to reach.
PS5 buyers, however, often struggled to find available units in stores for well over a year after launch, further highlighting the importance of maintaining adequate supply chains for popular hardware.
Nintendo’s current goal to ship nearly 7 million Switch 2 units demonstrates an intent to avoid such shortages and ensure the broad availability of its next-generation console.
This strategic move could pave the way for one of the biggest console launches in the company’s history, reinforcing Nintendo's position as a leading force in the gaming hardware market.
As of now, Nintendo has not announced an official release date for the Switch 2.
However, the company has confirmed that it plans to unveil the new system before the end of March 2025.
In a recent announcement, Nintendo also clarified that the Switch successor will be backwards compatible, allowing players to enjoy existing Nintendo Switch software on the redesigned hardware—a move expected to be well received by long-time fans and the development community alike.
In summary, Nintendo’s ambitious shipment targets indicate their commitment to a smooth and accessible Switch 2 launch, potentially setting a new industry standard for day-one console availability.
Gamers and industry observers can expect more official news from Nintendo through future Nintendo Direct presentations and updates on the eShop as the highly anticipated hardware reveal approaches.
