Nintendo Switch 2 Announcement Leaves Original Console’s Sales Unaffected

Nintendo doesn’t seem to think that the buzz around the Nintendo Switch 2 has had much of an effect on the sales of the original Switch. This topic came up when a shareholder asked why Nintendo revised their financial forecast downward for the year, lowering both their hardware and software sales projections.

In response, Nintendo’s president, Shuntaro Furukawa, explained, “After assessing third-quarter sales and looking ahead to the rest of the year, we adjusted our sales forecasts for the Nintendo Switch.” He went on to mention that they also changed their exchange rate assumptions. These evaluations and a few other factors prompted the company to lower its annual financial forecast. Hardware and software projections took a hit, with reductions of 1.5 million units and 10 million units respectively, largely due to holiday sales trends. Nintendo also changed its currency exchange projection from 140 yen to 150 yen per US dollar for the end of the fiscal year.

Furukawa highlighted that the Nintendo Switch had already surpassed 150 million units sold, establishing a strong user base. Heading into the fiscal year, the company felt confident. They planned to release several exciting new titles, supported by a wide array of evergreen games and a user base exceeding 100 million annually, which led them to set ambitious goals.

During the holiday season, titles like Super Mario Party Jamboree sold well globally. In regions outside Japan, bundles with games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe also saw strong sales. Yet, despite steady performance in its eighth year, the sales didn’t quite hit the lofty targets they had set.

Furukawa noted that while some might have delayed purchases in anticipation of the Switch 2, plenty of new consumers worldwide bought the Nintendo Switch, along with many opting for replacement or additional systems. As for the drop in software sales, he believes that the anticipation for Switch 2 didn’t significantly deter buyers, partly because current Switch games will be compatible with the new console.

The revised forecast for software sales also stems from the absence of a blockbuster title like last year’s The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom or Super Mario Bros. Wonder, which drives momentum and excitement across the board.

For those eager to learn more about what’s next, Nintendo will reveal more in a special Nintendo Direct presentation for the Switch 2. It will be broadcast on April 2nd at 6 am PT / 9 am ET / 2 pm BST / 3 pm CEST.

The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch worldwide in 2025, though the exact date hasn’t been announced yet.