Record-breaking launch: Nintendo's Switch 2 sells over 3.5 million units in four days
Nintendo has announced that the Switch 2 has become its fastest-selling console of all time, launching on June 5 to enthusiastic fans who attended midnight events to secure their units. Pre-orders sold out instantly, reflecting high demand for the upgraded, more powerful console.
In just four days, the Switch 2 sold over 3.5 million units globally, making it the fastest-selling Nintendo hardware ever. Doug Bowser, president of Nintendo of America, expressed gratitude for the positive response, stating, “Fans around the world are showing their enthusiasm for Nintendo Switch 2 as an upgraded way to play at home and on the go. We are thankful for their response and happy to see the fun they are already having with Nintendo Switch 2 as they explore new features and games that bring friends and family together in new ways.”
To put this in perspective, the original Nintendo Switch sold 2.7 million units in its first month and went on to become one of the best-selling consoles of all time, with total sales reaching 152 million units. This places it just behind the Nintendo DS and the PlayStation 2, which have sold 154 million and over 160 million units, respectively. Nintendo is aiming for 15 million Switch 2 consoles sold in its first year, a target some analysts deem conservative given the current sales momentum.
The Switch 2 has also set a record as the fastest-selling home console, surpassing the PlayStation 5, which took four weeks to reach 3.4 million units sold. Sales data shows that in the UK, the Switch 2 is the fastest-selling Nintendo console, outselling the original Switch by more than two to one. However, it currently ranks as the fourth best-selling console in the UK, trailing behind the PS4, PS5, and Xbox One.
Historically, the UK market has been challenging for Nintendo. While the Nintendo Wii was the best-selling console globally during its generation, it fell short of the Xbox 360 in the UK. Similarly, despite the Nintendo Switch being the best-selling console worldwide for the past eight years, it has not achieved the same level of success in the UK market compared to the PS4.
Looking ahead, Nintendo has confirmed several exciting titles set to launch on the Switch 2 later this year. Upcoming games include Donkey Kong Bananza on July 17, Pokemon Legends: Z-A on October 16, and highly anticipated titles such as Metroid Prime 4 and a new Splatoon spin-off. Additionally, a range of blockbuster third-party titles are expected, further enhancing the appeal of the Switch 2 to a broad audience.
With its impressive sales and a strong lineup of games, the Switch 2 is poised to make a significant impact in the gaming market.
