Nintendo Switch 2 Billboard Spotted in Osaka: Mario Kart Promotion Fuels Anticipation Ahead of Launch

Nintendo is intensifying its marketing campaign for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, as evidenced by a newly unveiled billboard at JR Osaka station in Osaka, Japan.

The prominent display features the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 console alongside an image of Mario behind the wheel in Mario Kart World, a striking visual that underscores Nintendo's ongoing commitment to its iconic franchises. Witnesses in Osaka first reported the billboard’s appearance around April 15, 2025, aligning with the ramp-up period ahead of the official Nintendo Switch 2 launch.

The unveiling at JR Osaka station—a major transportation hub with high daily foot traffic—signals Nintendo's strategy to create maximum visibility for its next-generation hardware in one of Japan’s busiest urban centers. Alongside the headline-grabbing Nintendo Switch 2 billboard, commuters noted several other marketing materials for established Nintendo Switch titles.

These included extensive advertisements for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Nintendo’s best-selling title on the current platform, continuing to enjoy robust sales and active support on the Nintendo Switch eShop.

Such visibility for both upcoming hardware and beloved games demonstrates Nintendo’s dual strategy: celebrate past successes while building excitement for its future releases. A spokesperson from Nintendo Japan, addressing the campaign’s visibility, emphasized the significance of engaging fans across major public spaces ahead of major launches.

"We aim to connect with longtime fans and new players alike through direct and energetic presentations of our latest innovations and beloved IP," the spokesperson noted, reinforcing the company’s focus on broad community outreach. The Nintendo Switch 2, set for global release on June 5, 2025, is poised to continue Nintendo’s legacy of hardware innovation following the exceptional commercial performance of the original Nintendo Switch.

Since its debut in 2017, the Nintendo Switch has sold over 130 million units worldwide, cementing its status as one of the top-selling consoles in gaming history.

The promotion at JR Osaka station suggests that Nintendo is planning a full-scale marketing blitz in the months leading up to release, with additional billboards expected to appear at other major train stations across Japan. As the launch date approaches, fans can anticipate increased promotional activities, potentially including information-rich Nintendo Direct presentations and expanded coverage on the Nintendo Switch eShop.

These efforts collectively underscore Nintendo’s intent to build momentum and community engagement well ahead of the Nintendo Switch 2’s market debut. Stay tuned for more updates on Nintendo Switch 2 news and upcoming titles as Nintendo continues its high-profile rollout of the next era in gaming hardware.

Nintendo Switch 2 Mario Kart Nintendo Switch Mario Kart World Nintendo JR Osaka station Osaka Mario Switch 2 Switch Kart