Recent reports indicate a potential April 2025 launch for Nintendo's Switch 2, while Nintendo maintains its focus on maximizing sales of the current Switch model.
Next Year Could Bring a "Summer of Switch 2"
Developers Eyeing an April/May 2025 Launch
Industry whispers suggest the Switch 2 won't arrive before April 2025. GamesIndustry.biz podcast host Chris Dring, citing developer sources, stated that developers have been advised to not expect a launch within the current fiscal year (ending March 2025). Many hope for an April or May launch, avoiding a potential clash with other major releases.
One possible reason for this timing is to avoid competing with highly anticipated titles like Rockstar Games' "GTA 6," speculated for a Fall 2025 release. Adding to the speculation, journalist Pedro Henrique Lutti Lippe hinted at a pre-August announcement, as reported by BGR. This aligns with Nintendo's stated intention to announce the Switch 2 before the end of its fiscal year (March 31, 2025). However, these reports remain unconfirmed.
Nintendo's Stock and Switch Sales Take a Dip
Despite the Decline, Switch Sales Remain Strong Year-on-Year
image via Google Finance Nintendo's stock experienced a slight dip following a report of declining Switch sales. While Q1 FY2025 saw a significant year-on-year sales decrease (-46.4%), the company sold 2.1 million Switch units during the quarter. This follows strong overall sales of 15.7 million units for the year ending March 2024, exceeding initial forecasts.
Further Insights into Nintendo's Switch Strategy
Nintendo emphasized that over 128 million accounts actively used Switch software in the past year, showcasing continued engagement despite the console's age. The company reiterated its commitment to maximizing both hardware and software sales for the current Switch, projecting 13.5 million units for FY2025, even with the Switch 2 on the horizon.