The Nintendo Switch continues to defy expectations and solidify its position as one of the most successful gaming consoles of all time. Despite a slight slowdown in sales, the Switch is on track to break a longstanding record. According to Nintendo’s latest financial report for the three months ending December 31, 2023, the company sold an impressive 13.74 million units, bringing the console’s lifetime sales total to a staggering 139.36 million. This achievement is further highlighted by the fact that the Switch has officially outsold the highly popular Nintendo DS in Japan, with 33.34 million lifetime sales to date.
Looking ahead, Nintendo projects that global lifetime sales of the Switch (including the OLED, regular, and Lite models) will reach an incredible 141.12 million units sold by March 2024. To support this forecast, the company has revised its sales forecast for the current financial year, expecting a slight increase from 15 million to 15.5 million unit sales. These figures place the Switch in a comfortable position as the third-best-selling console of all time. If Nintendo’s predictions hold true, the console could potentially surpass the global lifetime sales of the Nintendo DS, which currently stands at 154 million units. This would bring the Switch within spitting distance of dethroning the long-reigning champion, the PlayStation 2, which has sold an impressive 155 million units over its lifetime.
A Bright Future Ahead
Nintendo is not resting on its laurels and has an exciting lineup of games planned for the future. In the first half of the year, players can expect the release of much-anticipated titles such as Princess Peach: Showtime and Mario vs. Donkey Kong. Additionally, Splatoon 3 will receive new Expansion Pass content, while other highly anticipated games for the system include Unicorn Overlord, Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD, and Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door. With a roster of such engaging and popular titles, the Switch is sure to maintain its momentum and keep players captivated.
While many are eagerly awaiting news about the next iteration of Nintendo’s gaming consoles, the Switch 2, the company remains tight-lipped. During the recent financial briefing, Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa emphasized that the current Switch family of consoles will continue to be the company’s “main business” as they head towards 2024. This suggests that there are no immediate plans for a successor to the Switch, leaving fans to eagerly speculate about what lies beyond.
The Nintendo Switch’s remarkable sales performance and projected growth demonstrate its undeniable success in the gaming industry. With the potential to surpass the lifetime sales of iconic consoles such as the Nintendo DS and the PlayStation 2, the Switch is carving its own path to greatness. Coupled with an exciting lineup of upcoming games, the future looks promising for Nintendo and its loyal fanbase. As gamers eagerly await news of the elusive Switch 2, it is clear that the Switch has firmly cemented its place in gaming history.
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