Industry Analyst Claims Nintendo Switch 2 Meets Expectations, But May Fall Short of Original’s Sales

The Nintendo Switch has enjoyed remarkable success, yet not everyone is convinced that the anticipated Switch 2 will replicate such achievements.

As things stand, the original Nintendo Switch has sold approximately 146 million units. This makes it the third-best-selling console ever, trailing just eight million units behind the Nintendo DS and 14 million behind the reigning champion, the PS2. With the official announcement of the Switch 2, the original model likely won’t snatch the top rank. Nevertheless, it has undeniably secured its place as one of the leading consoles in sales, even if there’s a slight dip in its position. Understandably, expectations are high for its successor. However, one analyst predicts the Switch 2 might not quite match its predecessor’s success.

Sharing insights with GamesRadar, Mat Piscatella from the market research firm Circana expressed confidence that “the Switch 2 can (and I expect it to) be a significant hit. But I also don’t anticipate it reaching Switch levels. Predicting an outlier is tricky. While it’s possible, it’s not likely.” Piscatella further emphasized that while it’s “excellent that it seems a larger, more robust Switch,” it primarily appears to mirror its predecessor, which might not entice those beyond the original Switch’s fanbase.

The initial Switch 2 trailer primarily highlights its larger size and a new Mario Kart, both appealing features, though neither alone might skyrocket console sales. As Piscatella pointed out, “There could be surprises that remain undisclosed and haven’t surfaced in leaks. We’ll have to await further updates during the Direct.”

Regardless of whether the Switch 2 can echo the first Switch’s sales figures, it’s bound to perform admirably, particularly because Nintendo exclusives remain playable solely on Nintendo devices. All eyes are now on the upcoming Direct to reveal what’s next on the horizon.