Switch 2 Set for Release with High Expectations

Nintendo is gearing up for the highly anticipated launch of its next-generation console, the Switch 2, on Thursday. The company hopes to match—or even surpass—the phenomenal success of its predecessor, the original Switch, which has sold 152 million units since its 2017 debut, making it the third best-selling console of all time.

Despite early excitement and strong pre-order demand, Nintendo faces challenges, including higher pricing and potential trade tariff uncertainties in key markets like the U.S.

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Upgrades & Pricing: A Premium Experience

The Switch 2 boasts several key improvements over the original model:

• Larger, higher-resolution screen

• Enhanced processing power (reportedly 8x more memory)

• Magnetic controllers that can double as a desktop mouse

• New online features, including in-game chat and temporary game sharing

However, these upgrades come at a cost. The U.S. price is set at $449.99, over 35% more than the original Switch’s launch price. In Japan, a cheaper version is available for ¥49,980 ($350).

Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa acknowledged the higher price point in a May earnings briefing, stating:

“The Switch 2 is priced relatively high, so even if there is momentum around the launch, we know it will not be easy to keep that momentum going over the long term.”

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Game Pricing & Backward Compatibility

New Switch 2-exclusive titles, such as “Donkey Kong Bonanza” and “Mario Kart World”, will retail for $80, a significant jump from standard Switch game prices.

However, the console maintains backward compatibility, allowing most original Switch games to be played on the new system. Some fan favorites, like “Zelda: Breath of the Wild”, will receive enhanced editions optimized for the Switch 2.

Fan Reactions: Excitement with Some Concerns

Krysta Yang, co-host of the Nintendo-focused Kit & Krysta Podcast, noted:

“People were a bit shocked by the price of ‘Mario Kart World’—the first $80 game we’ve ever seen. Nintendo will have to convince casual gamers that the upgrade is worth it, but fans are super excited.”

David Gibson of MST Financial believes the new online features could be a major selling point:

“It’s a way to appeal to an audience used to streaming and watching games, not just playing them. The Switch 2 could break early sales records.”

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Nintendo’s Business Reliance on the Switch 2

Despite ventures into theme parks and movies (like the Super Mario Bros. film), 90% of Nintendo’s revenue still comes from its gaming division. A strong Switch 2 launch is critical for the company’s financial health.

Nintendo forecasts selling 15 million units in the current fiscal year—similar to the original Switch’s first-year performance.

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Potential Tariff Troubles

The U.S. trade war has introduced uncertainty. Nintendo delayed U.S. pre-orders by two weeks while assessing potential tariffs under the Trump administration’s policies.

Furukawa explained:

“Our financial projections assume a 10% tariff on products from Japan, Vietnam, and Cambodia, and 145% on China. Hardware for North America is mainly produced in Vietnam.”

While Vietnam’s 46% tariff is on hold and China’s rates have been reduced, lingering concerns might actually boost early sales, as consumers fear future price hikes.

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Retailers Report Record Demand

Charlotte Massicault, Multimedia & Gaming Director at Fnac Darty, told AFP:

“Pre-sale demand has been well above what we imagined. This will be a record in terms of first-day sales for a games console.”

She added that the Switch 2 is targeting core gamers more than families, marking a strategic shift from the original Switch’s broader appeal.

Final Thoughts: Will the Switch 2 Succeed?

With strong pre-orders, enhanced hardware, and blockbuster game support, the Switch 2 is poised for a strong launch. However, long-term success depends on whether Nintendo can justify its higher price and navigate economic uncertainties.

For now, fans and analysts alike are watching closely—will the Switch 2 become Nintendo’s next big hit? Only time will tell.