Tag: Nintendo

  • Nintendo Denies AI Images in Mario Kart After Billboard Claims

    Nintendo Denies AI Images in Mario Kart After Billboard Claims

    Key Takeaways

    1. AI-generated images in Mario Kart World raised questions among gamers due to their unusual designs, despite a Nintendo spokesperson clarifying that AI artwork is not involved in the game.

    2. The game’s vast open-world tracks present a challenge for detailed design, making AI appear to be an attractive option, but Nintendo is cautious about its use.

    3. Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa acknowledged the potential of AI for enhancing character behavior but expressed concerns over legal issues related to AI-generated images.

    4. Shigeru Miyamoto, a key figure at Nintendo, has shown reluctance to adopt AI technologies, preferring not to follow competitors like Sony, which has patented AI tools for game asset creation.

    5. While gamers accept AI for improving gameplay dynamics, there is significant resistance to the idea of AI-generated visuals in premium games like Mario Kart World, reflecting broader concerns within the gaming community.

    The use of AI in video games has stirred up a lot of debate. In a recent Nintendo Treehouse event, spectators spotted odd billboards on the Mario Kart World tracks. These AI-generated images showcased recognizable items, but their designs were quite unusual. A Nintendo spokesperson clarified to Eurogamer that AI artwork doesn’t play a part in Mario Kart World.

    Skepticism Among Gamers

    After looking closely at the Mario Kart World footage, many players questioned the presence of AI images. However, a few billboards did raise eyebrows. For instance, there was a construction advertisement for a bridge, where certain elements of the design felt out of place. Nearby was an image of a skyscraper that didn’t match any real-life buildings. Additionally, one billboard featured a car with windows that were strangely tall. Many current AI tools simply don’t have the finesse or training to produce realistic designs.

    Ambition and Caution

    Mario Kart World stands as the most ambitious installment in the series, showcasing vast open-world tracks. With the challenge of populating these areas with intricate details, using AI might seem like an attractive shortcut. Nevertheless, key figures at Nintendo have been slow to adopt generative AI. Last July, Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa mentioned that while AI could enhance the behavior of “opponent characters,” he was cautious about the legal implications surrounding images created by machines.

    Resistance to Change

    Shigeru Miyamoto, the renowned game director, designer, and producer at Nintendo, also expressed reluctance towards recent AI advancements. In a September 2024 interview, he indicated that the company would not imitate some of its rivals. For instance, Sony has secured a patent for AI technology that assists artists in crafting game assets.

    Most gamers are fine with developers utilizing AI to make enemies act more authentically. However, the idea of $80 games like Mario Kart World incorporating AI images would change the conversation. The backlash from the Ark: Survival Evolved trailer serves as a cautionary tale for the gaming industry.

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  • Nintendo Aims to Boost Switch 2 Popularity Amid Price Concerns

    Nintendo Aims to Boost Switch 2 Popularity Amid Price Concerns

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo’s FY25 financial results showed declines in both hardware and software sales, despite growth from new game launches.
    2. The anticipated Switch 2 is expected to boost sales and profit for FY26, with a target of 15 million units sold.
    3. Pricing for the Switch 2 could be adjusted based on potential new tariffs, which might affect demand.
    4. Pre-orders for the Switch 2 in Japan have reached 2.2 million, indicating strong initial interest.
    5. FY25 saw a significant decline in hardware (31.2%) and software sales (22.2%), influenced by strong sales in the previous year.

    This is the time of year when companies share their financial results, and Nintendo, like EA, has revealed its yearly data. The overall performance for FY25 wasn’t very strong for Nintendo, with declines in both hardware and software sales. However, the business from the games launched during the fiscal year showed consistent growth. The anticipated Switch 2 is projected to bring notable increases for the upcoming fiscal year, but the company is keeping a close eye on the tariff situation. While the console’s pricing remains stable for the moment, it could be subject to change later.

    Pricing Adjustments Ahead

    As stated in a report by Reuters, Nintendo’s President Shuntaro Furukawa mentioned during the earnings call that the pricing for Switch 2 could be modified if new tariffs are introduced. This could potentially decrease demand for the console. For now, the goal is to rapidly enhance the console’s popularity around the world. Nintendo aims to sell 15 million units of the Switch 2, hoping for a 13% increase in operating profit for FY26. The pre-order lottery in Japan has already collected 2.2 million orders, suggesting that 15 million units might be a more cautious target.

    Pre-Order Strategy

    In the US and Canada, Nintendo chose to delay pre-orders to evaluate the effects of tariffs, but the company maintained the original pricing for the consoles; however, accessory prices have risen. It appears that Nintendo is carefully watching the situation. Although they are eager to get the Switch 2 into the hands of many consumers, the console’s price is still influenced by the potential severity of the tariffs imposed.

    Sales Trends

    The FY25 report indicates that hardware sales declined by 31.2% compared to the previous year, while software sales fell by 22.2% year-on-year. A contributing factor to this decline was the strong sales from the previous fiscal year, driven by titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, released in May 2023, and Super Mario Bros. Wonder, which came out in October 2023. Considering that the original Switch is now entering its ninth year, these sales figures can be seen as relatively steady.

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  • Nintendo Begins Sending Switch 2 Pre-Order Invitations to U.S. Gamers

    Nintendo Begins Sending Switch 2 Pre-Order Invitations to U.S. Gamers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo is sending out pre-order invitation emails to select gamers, but timing and availability remain unclear.
    2. Only a small number of players have reported receiving emails, indicating limited console availability ahead of the June 5th launch.
    3. Eligible buyers include Nintendo Switch Online subscribers with over 12 months of membership and 50+ hours of gameplay, but invitations are not guaranteed.
    4. Gamers who receive invitations have a 72-hour window to complete their purchases on Nintendo’s Store.
    5. Delivery options may lead to delays, with standard shipping taking 3-9 business days and expedited options still possibly arriving after the Switch 2’s release date.

    U.S. gamers were aware that Nintendo would dispatch emails to chosen players on May 8th, but the specific time for pre-ordering the Switch 2 was still unclear. Now, it seems that invitation emails are beginning to reach select gamers. Nevertheless, as has been the case during the pre-order phase, there is still a lot of confusion regarding the availability and shipping methods.

    Select Emails Rolling Out

    Currently, only a small group of users on the ResetEra forums and various subreddits have reported receiving an email. This pattern might suggest that Nintendo plans to keep sending invitations throughout the day, or it could mean that the number of consoles available is even lower than anticipated. Nintendo has already mentioned that there might not be enough handheld devices for every player by the Switch 2 launch on June 5th.

    Invited Buyers Share Their Emails

    Lucky participants who received invites from Nintendo have shared the content of their emails. There’s nothing particularly surprising in the communication, as gamers have a window of 72 hours to complete their purchases. Before the pre-order period kicked off, Nintendo made it clear which buyers would be eligible. The company favors Nintendo Switch Online subscribers who have been registered for over 12 months and logged 50+ hours of gameplay. However, even those who meet these criteria are not guaranteed an invitation to purchase the console from Nintendo’s Store.

    Delivery Options and Expectations

    On social media, retail tracker Wario64 suggested that gamers waiting for their emails should visit Nintendo’s website. Any gamer who gets selected by Nintendo might be able to finalize their order right away.

    An unexpected downside for buyers relates to the delivery choices. The standard free shipping option estimates delivery in 3-9 business days. Depending on when the order is dispatched, the console might not arrive until after the Switch 2 release date. Even the expedited shipping options provide estimated delivery times of 2-3 days. While the Switch 2 pre-order frenzy has caused issues for retailers like Best Buy and GameStop, players still hope to receive their consoles on June 5th.

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    Nintendo Begins Sending Switch 2 Pre-Order Invitations to U.S. GamersNintendo Begins Sending Switch 2 Pre-Order Invitations to U.S. Gamers

     

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 May Record GameChat Audio and Video for Safety

    Nintendo Switch 2 May Record GameChat Audio and Video for Safety

    Key Takeaways

    1. Starting March 2026, a Nintendo Switch Online subscription will be required to use the new GameChat features.
    2. Nintendo’s updated privacy policy allows the company to collect, monitor, and record audio and video from GameChat sessions for safety purposes.
    3. The Switch 2 aims to appeal to both long-time fans and teenagers, despite concerns about privacy regarding recorded chat sessions.
    4. GameChat features safety measures, requiring friends-only connections, text message verification, and parental approval for users under 16.
    5. Unlike Microsoft and Sony, who do not continuously record chats, Nintendo is openly monitoring online interactions with GameChat.

    Gamers seem to be a bit unsure about the new GameChat features in Nintendo’s Switch 2. Starting March 2026, you will need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to use this feature. Additionally, screen-shared videos might not run as smoothly due to lower frame rates. Recently, Nintendo also announced it might record both audio and video from GameChat to ensure that online gaming remains safe for everyone involved.

    Privacy Policy Changes

    Keen-eyed users on Reddit discovered that Nintendo has updated the privacy policy on their website. The new language indicates that the company “may collect, monitor and record audio and video of your chat sessions with other users to provide a safe and secure environment for certain of our services.” The detailed text makes it clear that Nintendo could keep track of shared content, which includes “text, images, audio, video, your nickname and user icon.”

    Audience and Concerns

    Despite the fact that long-time fans of classic Nintendo games have grown older, the Switch remains a favorite console among teenagers. With the improved specifications of the Switch 2, it can now hold its own against advanced portable computers. However, Nintendo does not expect a major shift in its target audience. Given this demographic, many Reddit users feel there’s a valid reason for recording GameChat sessions. On the flip side, some players are vowing to steer clear of this feature because of privacy worries.

    Multiplayer Safety Measures

    Nintendo has already set up some measures to protect players in Switch 2’s multiplayer mode. For one, GameChat can only be initiated with people on a gamer’s friend list. Additionally, there’s a system that requires text message verification during the setup process. Lastly, parents need to give their approval for kids under 16 to use GameChat with other players.

    In contrast, both Microsoft and Sony assert that they do not record chats continuously on their Xbox and PlayStation consoles. Gamers, however, have the option to report clips if they encounter any bad behavior. Discussions are also ongoing on Discord about how the service manages archived messages. With the introduction of Switch 2 GameChat, it seems Nintendo is just being more open about its monitoring of online interactions.

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    Nintendo Switch 2 May Record GameChat Audio and Video for Safety
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  • EA Will Keep Game Prices Steady Despite Industry Trends

    EA Will Keep Game Prices Steady Despite Industry Trends

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tariffs have increased prices for consoles and games from major companies like Nintendo, Sony, and Xbox.
    2. EA is maintaining its current game pricing, showing confidence in its business growth.
    3. EA reported strong Q4 performance, with broad-based momentum across its portfolio.
    4. Notable sales include The Sims with double-digit growth and the American Football franchise exceeding $1 billion in net bookings.
    5. EA is optimistic for FY26 with upcoming titles like Battlefield and Skate, but acknowledges potential challenges from existing games and recent layoffs.

    The uncertainty around tariffs has had an effect on the gaming sector, leading to increased prices for consoles and games from major players like Nintendo, Sony, and Xbox. Meanwhile, EA appears to be maintaining its current pricing for games, showing confidence in its expanding business, at least for the time being. This information was shared during the company’s latest earnings call, where executives discussed various reports and the results for Q4.

    Strong Performance in Q4

    Stuart Canfield, the CFO of Electronic Arts, mentioned that the company finished FY25 on a high note, with Q4 demonstrating “broad-based momentum across the portfolio positioning the business for accelerated growth.” During the earnings call, a query regarding price hikes for games was posed, referring to Nintendo and Xbox. Canfield responded by saying that there will be no alterations to the current strategy for now.

    Impressive Sales Figures

    Highlights from the call reveal that The Sims achieved double-digit growth in the quarter, while Split Fiction has sold nearly 4 million units since its launch in March. In addition, EA’s American Football franchise surpassed $1 billion in net bookings for FY25.

    Looking Ahead to FY26

    As for FY26, EA is optimistic that the upcoming next Battlefield game, along with Skate, The Sims, and the EA Sports portfolio, will contribute to year-over-year growth in net bookings. However, it does recognize that the growth in net bookings and live services may be countered by Apex Legends and potential challenges from their catalog. This could relate to the recent layoffs at EA affecting the Apex Legends and Star Wars Jedi teams.

    In good news for EA fans, they can be assured that prices for their beloved franchises will stay the same, at least for now. Moreover, the next Battlefield game is set to be revealed this summer and will be released by March 2026.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Leak: Joy-Cons Could Be More Customizable

    Nintendo Switch 2 Leak: Joy-Cons Could Be More Customizable

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Switch 2 features a mainly black color design, contrasting with the original’s bright neon colors.
    2. New colored Joy-Con 2 strips are being offered by retailers, allowing some customization with orange and blue attachments.
    3. Customization options for the Switch 2 controllers are limited, primarily keeping a standard black appearance with some color hints.
    4. The Switch 2’s performance may rival or exceed that of the Steam Deck, but its design is still a point of contention among fans.
    5. Nintendo may introduce additional color options for Switch 2 Joy-Cons, but first-generation controllers will have compatibility limitations.

    While the specifications of the Switch 2 show clear improvements compared to the earlier handheld, there are gamers who wish it was more vibrant. The new console is set to debut with a mainly black color design. In contrast, the original model came with bright neon blue and red Joy-Cons at its release. Nintendo eventually broadened the variety of styles available for the Switch controllers. Thankfully, a recent leak suggests that the Joy-Cons for the Switch 2 might feature customizable side panels to inject some color.

    New Accessories for Joy-Cons

    Centro Leaks shared on social media that certain retailers have started offering colored Joy-Con 2 strips. The listings display orange and blue plastic attachments that fit onto the sides of the controllers. There’s also a tool included that could simplify the process of changing these panels.

    Customization Limitations

    The ability to customize the Switch 2 controllers might not satisfy the pickiest of gamers. Much of the accessories’ outer shell remains a standard black with hints of blue and orange. Users won’t be able to change the console’s appearance, unlike the PS5’s cover plates. Nevertheless, these side panels could be sufficient for distinguishing separate controllers in a household with multiple consoles.

    Performance and Design Comparison

    With its enhanced specifications, the Switch 2 is capable of matching, if not surpassing, the performance level of the Steam Deck. Its design also bears more resemblance to the Linux-based handheld than the original Switch. Still, some fans of Nintendo are hoping the new device would have a look that’s closer to the first console. Others argue that the colored Joy-Cons might make the $450 system appear too much like a toy.

    If the option to replace side panels seems restrictive, it’s likely that Nintendo will soon introduce Switch 2 Joy-Cons in additional colors. The first-generation Switch controllers will be compatible with some limitations, but they won’t attach magnetically. There are also third-party alternatives to consider, although accessory manufacturers are feeling anxious following Nintendo’s lawsuit against Genki.

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  • Nintendo Sues Genki Over Trademark Violations for Switch 2 Accessory

    Nintendo Sues Genki Over Trademark Violations for Switch 2 Accessory

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo is actively suing Genki for trademark infringement and false advertising related to their accessories for the Switch 2.
    2. Genki claimed insider knowledge of Switch 2 specifications and showcased prototypes at CES 2025, which frustrated Nintendo.
    3. Nintendo clarified that Genki’s products were not official and questioned how they obtained their design information.
    4. The lawsuit may be challenging for Genki, as their advertising could damage Nintendo’s reputation, and they might need to stop selling their products.
    5. Genki could face penalties, including destroying trademarked accessories and forfeiting profits made from their sales.

    Nintendo has actively taken action against people or businesses for violating its trademarks. The latest lawsuit against Nintendo follows the actions of an accessory maker for the Switch 2, which showcased its products at CES 2025. As is often the case, it took several months for this legal action to be revealed. A complaint was filed in a California court on May 2nd, alleging that Genki committed trademark infringements and engaged in false advertising.

    Genki’s Bold Claims at CES

    At the event in January, Genki attracted attention by asserting they had insider knowledge of Switch 2 specifications. Leveraging this information, they produced 3D-printed prototypes. Genki created accessories that were supposedly ready for the release date of the Switch 2. This move frustrated Nintendo even more, as Genki gave interviews to various journalists and showcased its products on social media. On April 1st, they even conducted a presentation that imitated the style of a Nintendo Direct.

    Nintendo’s Response

    During CES 2025, Nintendo closely monitored Genki’s actions. The company issued a statement making it clear that the accessories for the Switch 2 were not official. They denied supplying Genki with any specifications for the Switch 2 and raised questions about how Genki obtained that information. Eventually, Genki conceded that their designs were based on rumors and leaks, many of which speculated on the dimensions of the handheld device. Given the situation, a lawsuit from Nintendo seemed inevitable after their lawyers visited Genki’s booth.

    Legal Consequences

    In the ongoing lawsuit, Genki might find it hard to defend its use of Nintendo’s name and logo in its advertising. The court documents indicate that offering incompatible products could have tarnished Nintendo’s image. As a form of restitution, Nintendo wants Genki to stop marketing and selling anything related to the console. Additionally, Genki may need to destroy any accessories that feature trademarked logos and could face penalties for any profits made.

    Having early access to consoles gives manufacturers a significant advantage. With Nintendo increasing the prices of Switch 2 accessories, alternatives from third-party manufacturers have become even more sought after.

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  • Virtual Game Cards in Nintendo Switch 20.0.0 Update: How to Use

    Virtual Game Cards in Nintendo Switch 20.0.0 Update: How to Use

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo introduced the Virtual Game Card feature alongside the GameShare function in the 20.0.0 update, ahead of the Switch 2 launch in June.
    2. Game sharing is currently limited to Nintendo family group members, with only one game able to be borrowed at a time for up to two weeks.
    3. Users can only link two consoles for Virtual Game Card sharing, and only one can load the game at a time.
    4. Once linked, consoles can access Virtual Game Cards without being in close range, but a game must be “ejected” online for the other console to use it.
    5. The new system aims to resolve issues of simultaneous gameplay on different consoles using the same account.

    On April 29th, we were just a day away from Nintendo’s initial promise of the Virtual Game Card being released in April. Many Nintendo enthusiasts were waiting eagerly, hoping for updates at any moment in the last week (I admit, I was one of them). Unexpectedly, alongside the Virtual Game Card, Nintendo introduced GameShare in the 20.0.0 update, likely aiming to fix any remaining bugs and ensure the Switch 2’s launch in June goes as smoothly as possible. In this article, we’ll explore how to utilize the Virtual Game Card feature and discuss some of its limitations.

    Game Sharing Within Family Groups

    To kick things off, if you’re part of a Nintendo family group, sharing games over the internet isn’t possible at the moment. I attempted to test this with my siblings and mom via phone, but unfortunately, it didn’t work, which might disappoint some users. While I couldn’t capture many screenshots of this process, the steps are straightforward. You’ll both access the Virtual Game Card menu (which has an icon reminiscent of the old physical Game cards). The person lending the game will need to select a few additional options. After you open the menu, choose a game, then tap “Lend to Family Group Member.” Once that’s done, both Switch consoles will search for a connection. Provided you have internet and the consoles are close together, you can share your Virtual Game Card with your family member (or anyone in your Family Group). Just remember, you can only borrow one Game Card at a time, and members of a Nintendo Family Group can borrow for up to two weeks before the game is automatically returned.

    Testing the Virtual Game Card Sharing

    Next, I wanted to test the Virtual Game Card sharing between two devices (since I didn’t own two, I used the Switch and Switch Lite from my household). There are two crucial points to remember: you can’t link more than two systems you own at the same time, and only one system can load the game at any given moment. Discovering this made me realize that Nintendo might have indirectly addressed a problem: having your account on someone else’s Switch could let both the primary and secondary users play the same game or similar games simultaneously online. This new system might satisfy both consumers and Nintendo by eliminating that issue.

    Linking and Using Virtual Game Cards

    It’s worth mentioning that once these consoles are linked for the first time, they can “load” and “eject” the Virtual Game Cards without needing to be in close range again. However, if one console has a game loaded, the other can’t access it until it’s “ejected” online, which releases the Virtual Game Card for use. After the initial linking, all you need is an internet connection to freely use the loaded Virtual Game Cards. (Refer to the images below for guidance on linking the consoles.)

    In conclusion, this addition appears to be significant for the Nintendo Switch, especially with the upcoming launch of the Nintendo Switch 2. If you have any queries that this article doesn’t address, I suggest checking out Nintendo’s official website, watching the video below, or leaving a comment if you have a specific question.

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    Virtual Game Cards in Nintendo Switch 20.0.0 Update: How to UseVirtual Game Cards in Nintendo Switch 20.0.0 Update: How to UseVirtual Game Cards in Nintendo Switch 20.0.0 Update: How to UseVirtual Game Cards in Nintendo Switch 20.0.0 Update: How to UseVirtual Game Cards in Nintendo Switch 20.0.0 Update: How to Use

     

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  • Is the Nintendo Switch Losing the Charm of Past Consoles?

    Is the Nintendo Switch Losing the Charm of Past Consoles?

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo has a long history of creating memorable consoles with unique charm and character, as seen in systems like the NES and Wii.
    2. The Nintendo Switch introduces innovative features but lacks the warmth and nostalgia found in earlier consoles.
    3. Fans miss classic features like themes, memorable tunes, and Mii characters, which contribute to the console’s personality.
    4. The eShop’s lack of background music and the decreased use of Mii characters raise concerns about Nintendo’s direction and identity.
    5. There is hope that Nintendo will address these issues and revive the beloved character in the upcoming Switch 2.

    Nintendo has been a top player in the gaming industry for many years, creating consoles and games that have shaped the market. Starting with the NES, the company has delivered some of the most memorable consoles in gaming history. A big part of their success comes from the unique charm and character that Nintendo infuses into each generation of consoles. This was especially clear with the Wii, where the classic Nintendo essence was evident in every aspect of their devices. From the familiar sound when you turn on the console to the catchy music of the Mii Channel, Nintendo’s devices often evoke a strong sense of nostalgia.

    The Switch’s Innovations

    The Nintendo Switch is certainly creative, just like its forerunners, but it seems to lack the same warmth and character that previous systems had. The home screen is quite basic and the game startup is even more simplistic. Unlike the 3DS or Wii, it doesn’t have those memorable tunes, although the charming sound of the Joy-Con flipping during game loading is a small nod to that charm.

    Missing the Nostalgia

    As much as I enjoy the Switch’s new features, like the cool Joy-Con options and its hybrid nature, I find myself longing for the personality that was present in earlier versions. Features like StreetPass, different system themes, and the quirks of system transfers are some things I feel are absent. Adding to this, a recent interview with Polygon revealed that the eShop lacks any background music. Early looks at the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 suggest it may have a similarly plain home menu.

    Nintendo also seems a bit out of touch with what fans want in terms of menu themes and profile features. They have made a bit of progress by adding rotating profile icons in the Nintendo Switch Online app, but many of those options vanish without a trace, leaving much still desired. There’s a lot that feels like it’s missing from Nintendo’s latest console, and it looks like the same trend might continue with the next one.

    A Concern for the Future

    One small detail that many in the gaming community have noticed is the noticeable drop in the use of Mii characters in games. Since the Wii, Miis were a central part of the gaming experience, but their presence seems to have decreased on the Switch. The Mii Maker is still available, but it’s tucked away in the profile settings. This raises concerns that Nintendo might be drifting away from its original identity, and that the unique flair in even the user interface might be lost for good.

    In conclusion, I really appreciated the advancements Nintendo made with the Switch, and considering it was released quickly, some leniency is warranted. However, Nintendo has had eight years to refine and bring back the character in the anticipated Switch 2. While some of these issues are troubling, there’s a hope that Nintendo has reflected on what made their previous consoles so beloved by players.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders Surpass PS4 and PS5 Launch Projections

    Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders Surpass PS4 and PS5 Launch Projections

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Switch 2 has received 2.2 million lottery requests in Japan, indicating strong interest and potential for record-breaking sales.
    2. Pre-orders began on April 24th in the US, with estimates suggesting up to 6.6 million pre-orders globally by the June 5th release.
    3. The Switch 2 is expected to surpass the initial sales of the PS5 and PS4 if Nintendo can meet demand, despite concerns about supply shortages in Japan.
    4. Nintendo is working to build inventory and combat scalpers, having sent over a million units to the US by the end of February, while keeping the Switch 2’s price stable.
    5. Predictions indicate that the Switch 2 could sell 20 million units in its first year, surpassing the original Switch’s launch record of 15.1 million.

    There has been a clear interest for the Switch 2, especially shown by new figures from Japan. The company noted 2.2 million lottery requests to secure the console from the Japanese Nintendo Store. An updated report from Bloomberg suggests that the handheld might become the biggest console launch ever, thanks to its pre-order sales.

    Pre-Order Insights

    Pre-orders for the Switch 2 kicked off on April 24th in the US, where some customers are still feeling let down, even with rumors of a good supply. However, even without solid figures from North America, the Switch 2 seems set to break records. Pelham Smithers Associates estimates that Japan makes up about a third of global demand. Therefore, Nintendo could gather as many as 6.6 million pre-orders before the release on June 5th.

    Comparing Sales

    The PS5 moved between 2.1 and 2.5 million units in its first two weeks, while the PS4 also had similar figures, with 2.1 million consoles sold in the same timeframe. The Switch 2 could easily surpass both of these, as long as Nintendo can meet the high demand. Nintendo’s President, Shuntaro Furukawa, indicated that the company might not have enough supply in Japan.

    Inventory Efforts

    Worried about scalpers, Nintendo is attempting to build a large stock of consoles. Reports suggest that the company sent over a million units to the US by the end of February. They are still increasing production, but tariffs from China have made pre-ordering the Switch 2 more complicated. After some delays, the gaming giant chose not to raise the price of the Switch 2, although the price for accessories has gone up.

    Future Projections

    Takashi Mochizuki from Bloomberg shared on social media that the Switch 2 could sell 20 million consoles in its first year. This would beat the original Switch’s record of 15.1 million units after its launch in 2017 and is higher than some earlier predictions.

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    Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders Surpass PS4 and PS5 Launch Projections

     

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