Published on: November 06, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Sales and Leadership: Miyamoto Reflects on Hiroshi Yamauchi’s Advice
Nintendo has once again demonstrated its dominance in the video game industry with the remarkable performance of its latest hardware, the Nintendo Switch 2.
At a recent investor Q&A, the conversation turned towards the legacy of former Nintendo president Hiroshi Yamauchi and how he might respond to Nintendo’s continued success.
The exchange provided rare insight into the company’s cultural values and the humility that guides its leadership today.
Background on Nintendo and Switch 2 Performance
Having launched the original Nintendo Switch in March 2017, Nintendo captured a global audience with its hybrid console.
The platform’s innovative design and robust software library drove sales to over 125 million units worldwide, placing it among the best-selling consoles in history.
The Nintendo Switch 2, a highly anticipated follow-up, continues this success with strong early sales numbers, according to data released during the firm’s latest financial briefing.
Nintendo’s presence on digital platforms like the Nintendo eShop and its recurring Nintendo Direct presentations have further solidified its reputation for sustained engagement and software innovation.
Miyamoto on Yamauchi’s Enduring Influence
During the investor meeting, Shigeru Miyamoto—Nintendo’s iconic designer behind franchises like Super Mario and The Legend of Zelda—was asked an unexpected yet poignant question: How would former president Hiroshi Yamauchi evaluate the Switch 2’s success if he were still overseeing the company?
Miyamoto responded thoughtfully, expressing that Yamauchi might feel a degree of envy given that current sales figures have surpassed the achievements from his own tenure.
However, Miyamoto emphasized that Yamauchi’s core advice would also carry through: to remain humble, not let success lead to overconfidence, and to continue focusing diligently on progress.
“Mr.
Yamauchi would likely feel a bit envious,” Miyamoto conveyed, “but above all, his guidance would be to keep a level head, avoid arrogance, and strive to do our best.”
Honoring Nintendo’s Legacy Through Steady Leadership
Yamauchi’s influence remains deeply ingrained in Nintendo’s approach to development and business strategy.
His tenure, which spanned from 1949 to 2002, transformed Nintendo from a modest playing card company into a global entertainment leader.
Under his leadership, Nintendo introduced historic products like the NES, Game Boy, and Nintendo 64—systems that shaped generations of gamers.
Nintendo continues to uphold Yamauchi’s philosophy of innovation grounded in humility and perseverance.
As the company charts its path with the Nintendo Switch 2 and anticipates future milestones, Miyamoto’s words serve as a reminder that past wisdom remains a vital part of Nintendo’s DNA.
For more news on Nintendo Switch 2 sales, development updates, and insights from industry legends like Shigeru Miyamoto, stay tuned to our ongoing Nintendo coverage.
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