Nintendo reinforced its industry dominance in 2025 with a string of pivotal announcements including the highly anticipated introduction of the Nintendo Switch 2, the arrival of GameCube classics on Nintendo Switch Online (now called Nintendo Classics), and several major first-party releases, solidifying its presence in both hardware and software markets.
2025 began with considerable anticipation, particularly among dedicated fans and industry observers, as Nintendo signaled a new era with its successor to the immensely popular Nintendo Switch.
The company did not disappoint: the Nintendo Switch 2 was officially unveiled and released within the year, maintaining the brand clarity by going with the straightforward title 'Nintendo Switch 2.' While many predicted a launch price of $399, unforeseen trade tariffs led to an adjusted retail price of $449, as confirmed by company financial releases. A milestone achievement saw GameCube titles finally added to the Nintendo Switch Online service, now rebranded as 'Nintendo Classics.' This expansion answered years of fan requests and was hailed by the public and press alike as a key move in Nintendo's preservation and accessibility strategy.
The addition of these beloved classics was paired with other service enhancements, though subscription pricing remained unchanged at the time of reporting. First-party software saw significant developments.
The launch and immediate success of 'Mario Kart World' highlighted Nintendo’s ability to both innovate and build upon its foundational franchises.
In a statement reflecting the sentiment of many, a company representative noted that “delivering new experiences with established series remains central to Nintendo’s philosophy.” Pokémon fans were treated to the release of 'Pokémon Legends Z-A' in 2025, alongside a teaser for the upcoming title 'Pokopia.' Kirby enthusiasts were delighted by both a Switch 2 Edition for 'Kirby and the Forgotten Land' and a surprise announcement of 'Kirby Air Riders.' Donkey Kong returned to the 3D platformer arena with 'Donkey Kong Bananza' serving as the flagship launch platformer for the Switch 2, while a new 3D Mario title remained in the pipeline. On the hardware front, Nintendo confirmed ongoing support for the original Switch with competitive pricing and continued retail presence, attributing robust sales to the value proposition of the previous-generation system versus the new model.
As of the end of fiscal Q3, the original Switch had sold 154.01 million units, nearing the milestone set by Nintendo DS and PlayStation 2, positioning it as the best-selling home console to date. Third-party support surged, with EA's 'Madden' franchise officially returning to Nintendo platforms for the first time since the Wii U.
Nintendo also partnered with Microsoft, further expanding the range of titles available on Switch 2. Other notable events included the premiere of 'The Super Mario Galaxy Movie,' new Zelda and Metroid amiibo launches, and substantial content updates for existing franchises.
Ported titles like 'Super Mario Galaxy 1 + 2' and continued enhancements to classic games highlighted Nintendo’s dual focus on heritage and innovation. Looking ahead to 2026, expectations are high: the 30th anniversary of Pokémon, a potential new Animal Crossing announcement to mark its 25th anniversary, and further expansions of both the Nintendo Classics lineup and cross-platform support seem poised to continue Nintendo’s momentum.
The company’s consistent delivery of fan-requested features and strong sales performance sets a roadmap for success as it enters its next chapter. Stay tuned for further updates following the next Nintendo Direct and hardware sales reports as Nintendo charts its course through another landmark year.
The company did not disappoint: the Nintendo Switch 2 was officially unveiled and released within the year, maintaining the brand clarity by going with the straightforward title 'Nintendo Switch 2.' While many predicted a launch price of $399, unforeseen trade tariffs led to an adjusted retail price of $449, as confirmed by company financial releases. A milestone achievement saw GameCube titles finally added to the Nintendo Switch Online service, now rebranded as 'Nintendo Classics.' This expansion answered years of fan requests and was hailed by the public and press alike as a key move in Nintendo's preservation and accessibility strategy.
The addition of these beloved classics was paired with other service enhancements, though subscription pricing remained unchanged at the time of reporting. First-party software saw significant developments.
The launch and immediate success of 'Mario Kart World' highlighted Nintendo’s ability to both innovate and build upon its foundational franchises.
In a statement reflecting the sentiment of many, a company representative noted that “delivering new experiences with established series remains central to Nintendo’s philosophy.” Pokémon fans were treated to the release of 'Pokémon Legends Z-A' in 2025, alongside a teaser for the upcoming title 'Pokopia.' Kirby enthusiasts were delighted by both a Switch 2 Edition for 'Kirby and the Forgotten Land' and a surprise announcement of 'Kirby Air Riders.' Donkey Kong returned to the 3D platformer arena with 'Donkey Kong Bananza' serving as the flagship launch platformer for the Switch 2, while a new 3D Mario title remained in the pipeline. On the hardware front, Nintendo confirmed ongoing support for the original Switch with competitive pricing and continued retail presence, attributing robust sales to the value proposition of the previous-generation system versus the new model.
As of the end of fiscal Q3, the original Switch had sold 154.01 million units, nearing the milestone set by Nintendo DS and PlayStation 2, positioning it as the best-selling home console to date. Third-party support surged, with EA's 'Madden' franchise officially returning to Nintendo platforms for the first time since the Wii U.
Nintendo also partnered with Microsoft, further expanding the range of titles available on Switch 2. Other notable events included the premiere of 'The Super Mario Galaxy Movie,' new Zelda and Metroid amiibo launches, and substantial content updates for existing franchises.
Ported titles like 'Super Mario Galaxy 1 + 2' and continued enhancements to classic games highlighted Nintendo’s dual focus on heritage and innovation. Looking ahead to 2026, expectations are high: the 30th anniversary of Pokémon, a potential new Animal Crossing announcement to mark its 25th anniversary, and further expansions of both the Nintendo Classics lineup and cross-platform support seem poised to continue Nintendo’s momentum.
The company’s consistent delivery of fan-requested features and strong sales performance sets a roadmap for success as it enters its next chapter. Stay tuned for further updates following the next Nintendo Direct and hardware sales reports as Nintendo charts its course through another landmark year.
