Nintendo Affirms Ongoing Support for Nintendo Switch as Switch 2 Becomes Primary Focus

Nintendo Affirms Ongoing Support for Nintendo Switch as Switch 2 Becomes Primary Focus In a strategic move that underscores its commitment to a robust hardware ecosystem, Nintendo has confirmed ongoing support and sales for the original Nintendo Switch, even as the company’s attention turns to the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.

This confirmation came directly from Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa during the company’s latest financial results briefing, offering further guidance for existing Switch users and the broader gaming industry. The Nintendo Switch first launched in March 2017 and has since established itself as one of the best-selling gaming consoles of all time.

Boasting a diverse lineup of first-party and third-party titles, as well as innovative hybrid hardware design, the Switch has achieved remarkable commercial success, shipping over 140 million units worldwide as of early 2024.

This momentum has been sustained by regular content updates via Nintendo Direct presentations and continuous expansions to the Nintendo eShop library. With the reveal and eventual launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, industry observers anticipated a natural transition away from its predecessor.

However, during the latest fiscal briefing, Furukawa emphasized that the original Nintendo Switch will remain available so long as there is market demand.

According to Furukawa, while the company’s primary business focus is shifting toward the Nintendo Switch 2, the original Switch "has maintained a steady sales pace even after the June launch of its successor." He added, "While considering consumer demand and the broader business environment, we will continue selling Nintendo Switch hardware." This approach demonstrates Nintendo’s measured strategy in supporting multiple generations of hardware simultaneously, echoing similar transitions in the company's history.

The continued availability of the original Nintendo Switch ensures that a broad and price-sensitive audience retains access to the platform, while the Nintendo Switch 2 introduces the promise of advanced features for core and early-adopter audiences. Nintendo’s latest financial results also detailed cumulative sales figures for both the original Switch and its soon-to-be flagship successor.

As the Nintendo Switch 2 takes center stage, the company’s transparent communication and responsive supply strategies underscore its intent to balance innovation with accessibility for its expansive user base. For Nintendo enthusiasts and industry analysts alike, this commitment signals an ongoing investment in the current generation, ensuring a smooth transition period and a sustained marketplace for both hardware and software via the Nintendo eShop and physical retailers.

As the gaming landscape evolves, Nintendo’s dual support strategy is poised to maximize engagement across its popular platform lineup.

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