Tag: Switch 2

June 5, 2025

No Man’s Sky Switch 2 Upgrade: Free, Multiplayer & Enhancements

Key Takeaways

1. No Man’s Sky will receive a free upgrade for players transitioning from the original Switch to the new Switch 2, enhancing graphics, frame rates, and content from the Beacon update.
2. The upgraded version on Switch 2 supports multiplayer, cross saves, and cross play, leveraging the new hardware capabilities.
3. The Beacon update introduces revamped settlements with larger towns, unique character stories, and the ability for players to upgrade buildings and become mayors.
4. The enhancements made possible by Switch 2’s performance were not feasible on the original Switch, which struggled with the game’s demands.
5. No Man’s Sky is currently priced at $60 and is exclusively available on the Nintendo Switch in the Nintendo US store.

With the Switch 2 set to launch tomorrow (June 5), Hello Games has shared that No Man’s Sky will receive a complimentary upgrade for players who already have it on the original Switch. The version for Switch 2 introduces significant enhancements to graphics and frame rates, along with additional content from the Beacon update. The team has been laboring in secrecy for more than a year to create the version for Switch 2.

YouTube Insights

The HelloGamesTube channel on YouTube released a detailed video showcasing all the upgrades that will be available for No Man’s Sky on the Switch 2 when it launches. The new hardware capabilities of the Switch 2 have allowed the developers to make impressive advancements in graphics and overall functionality. The game will also feature multiplayer support, along with cross saves and cross play. Not only has the level of detail improved, but the render resolution and frame rates have also seen a boost.

Settlements and New Features

The Beacon update revamps the settlements, introducing larger towns inhabited by characters that have their own unique stories. Players can discover new buildings that they can upgrade, and they even have the option to become mayors of these towns. Such features were not feasible on the original Switch, but the enhanced performance of the Switch 2 has made it possible for the developers to implement them.

Moreover, Beacon will also be a free update for No Man’s Sky on the Switch 2. Initially launched for the Switch in October 2022, the game pushed the console’s capabilities to the edge. Since its original debut in 2016, No Man’s Sky has evolved greatly, thanks to the commitment of its dedicated team. Currently, No Man’s Sky is priced at $60 and is only listed for the Nintendo Switch on the Nintendo US store.

Sources and Team Efforts

You can check out the latest updates from Hello Games on YouTube, as well as follow Nintendo US and Sean Murray on X for more information.

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Tags: Hello Games, No Man’s Sky, Switch 2
June 4, 2025

Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date Patch Live: Specs and Game Impressions

Key Takeaways

1. The Switch 2 launch includes a worldwide day-one patch (20.1.1) with key features like microSD Express support and access to Nintendo Switch Online and eShop.
2. New features in the patch include GameChat for voice/video chatting and Virtual Game Cards for digital gaming across devices, along with game and save data transfer from the original Switch.
3. New Zealand players get early access to the Switch 2, with live streams for Mario Kart World highlighting smooth performance in docked mode.
4. The Nintendo eShop has improved, allowing purchases of upgrade packs for games that benefit from the Switch 2’s enhanced specs, along with free updates for games like Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.
5. Gamers are actively sharing their experiences and reactions to Switch 2 games as midnight launch events begin in other regions.

For gamers in certain time zones, the day of the Switch 2 launch has finally arrived. Thankfully, Nintendo has rolled out the essential day-one patch worldwide. The 20.1.1 update introduces key features, including the use of the microSD Express card slot. Players can also access Nintendo Switch Online and the eShop. This means that fans can start sharing their initial experiences with Switch 2 games and the console’s performance.

Patch Features Unveiled

Nintendo Everything has provided a detailed list of what the inaugural Switch 2 patch enables. In addition to online capabilities, GameChat is now available for those wanting to voice or video chat. Virtual Game Cards are also functional, a feature that was already present on the original Switch. This enhancement makes digital gaming more attractive, letting users insert virtual cartridges across different handheld devices. Lastly, Nintendo has enabled the transfer of games and save data from the original Switch to the Switch 2.

Early Access for New Zealand Players

Typically, when a new console or game launches, players in New Zealand are often the first to experience it. This trend continues with the Switch 2, as live streams for Mario Kart World have kicked off. This kart racing game is included in a Switch 2 bundle and serves as a prime candidate for early testing. Up to now, there have been no significant surprises, with reports highlighting smooth performance in docked mode. Some observers feel that the game has a more laid-back vibe, but it’s still early to see how competitive gamers will respond.

Enhanced eShop Experience

The Nintendo eShop has gained new significance with the release of this latest handheld. Gamers can buy upgrade packs for various Switch games that will utilize the enhanced specs of the Switch 2. Other updates for games like Pokémon Scarlet and Violet are being offered for free, enabling 60 fps gameplay. Now that the Switch 2 is available, players are noticing that browsing the marketplace is much more responsive. However, the only letdown is the absence of background music.

As midnight launch events begin in other regions, reactions from gamers about Switch 2 games and the system will keep pouring in.

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Tags: Mario Kart World, Nintendo eShop, Switch 2
June 3, 2025

Suspicion of AI in Spanish Voices for Zelda Notes on Nintendo Switch 2

Key Takeaways

1. Critics accused Nintendo of using AI-generated content in Mario Kart World, but the company denied these claims.
2. Concerns arose over mechanical-sounding Spanish dialogue in the Zelda Notes app for updated Switch 2 games.
3. Players expected to hear the original voice of Princess Zelda, Nerea Alfonso, but some suspect AI-generated voice or a different actress was used.
4. Nintendo has not adopted generative AI, as Shigeru Miyamoto believes it doesn’t fit the company’s values and raises intellectual property concerns.
5. Players will be able to experience the new narration when the upgraded Switch 2 versions of Zelda games launch on June 5th.

The topic of generative AI in video games has sparked a lively debate. Recently, some critics accused Nintendo of utilizing AI-generated billboards in Mario Kart World. The company refuted these claims and has generally avoided such controversies. However, doubts have now arisen regarding some peculiar-sounding Spanish dialogue in Zelda. Players encounter this voice work in the Zelda Notes app, which accompanies two updated Switch 2 games.

Enhancements in Zelda Notes

Zelda Notes improves the Switch 2 versions of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Breath of the Wild. In this app, players gain navigational help and insights on significant places. Additionally, it allows users to share their ultrahand builds from Tears of the Kingdom. Nintendo also recorded lines for key characters, including Princess Zelda. When the gaming giant released snippets of this dialogue on social media, Spanish players quickly voiced their worries.

Concern Over Voice Acting

The narrator guiding gamers sounds quite mechanical, leading some to believe it might be generated by AI. However, the focus is primarily on Princess Zelda’s voice. Spanish gamers in Europe expected to hear Nerea Alfonso, who voiced Zelda in Breath of the Wild. Instead, some listeners suspect that Nintendo may have used AI-generated voice or possibly a lesser-known actress. Up until now, Alfonso has not provided any clarification on whether she is involved in Zelda Notes.

Future of AI in Gaming

As more opinions pour in, a growing number of Zelda enthusiasts are concluding that Nintendo has chosen a different actress. Unlike other developers and publishers, Nintendo has not yet adopted generative AI. Shigeru Miyamoto, a key designer and producer, believes that this technology doesn’t align with the company’s ethos. He also raises concerns about potential issues surrounding intellectual property rights.

Players will soon have the chance to form their own opinions about the narration in Zelda Notes. The upgraded Switch 2 versions of Tears of the Kingdom and Breath of the Wild, along with last-gen upgrade packs, are set to launch on June 5th.

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Tags: Nintendo, Switch 2, Zelda Notes
June 3, 2025

Nintendo Lowers Wholesale Switch 2 Price in Japan to Boost Sales

Key Takeaways

1. Physical stores in Japan remain popular for buying gaming consoles, including the Switch 2, despite high pre-order interest.
2. Nintendo is offering the Switch 2 at a lower wholesale price, increasing retailer margins from 2% to 5%, encouraging them to promote the console more.
3. Japanese consumers prefer physical copies of games over digital ones, which supports retail sales and promotions for Switch 2 games.
4. Nintendo aims to outpace competitors like PS5 and Xbox by leveraging the Switch 2’s pricing strategy and appealing to current handheld owners.
5. The handheld gaming market is thriving in Japan, as many gamers prefer portable devices for gaming on the go.

Physical stores in Japan continue to be a favored method for consumers to buy the latest gaming consoles and titles. Despite the impressive pre-order figures for the Switch 2, Nintendo is not taking any risks. According to a new report by Bloomberg, the company is supplying Japanese retailers with the handheld at a surprisingly affordable wholesale price. Nintendo’s aim is to make the Switch 2 the leading console in the market.

Retailer Insights on Switch 2

Various retailers discussed Nintendo’s strategy regarding the Switch 2 with Bloomberg’s Takashi Mochizuki. Typically, stores earn about a 2% gross margin for each console they sell. This makes it tough for retailers to gain profit from these systems, so they usually depend on selling bundles, games, and accessories. However, with the Switch 2, the margin is increased to 5%. This change gives shops greater motivation to stock the new handheld and to put more focus on marketing it.

Market Trends and Consumer Preferences

Retailers in the U.S. and other areas will also be focusing on the console both before and after the Switch 2’s official launch date. However, data from 2022-25 indicates that Japanese consumers are not as open to digital gaming. Physical copies still hold strong appeal, which means that customers depend on stores to buy their games. Retail chains like Bic Camera are heavily promoting Switch 2 games for the launch.

Competition and Future Sales

By offering a lower wholesale price for the Switch 2, Nintendo is also targeting its competitors. Sales of the PS5 are still behind those of the PS4, while the Xbox is becoming increasingly irrelevant. In 2024, the Switch reached the milestone of being the best-selling console in Japan’s history. If Nintendo can persuade current handheld owners to upgrade, it will continue to lead in hardware sales.

The Mobile Gaming Opportunity

With the help of retailers, Nintendo can tap into the profitable mobile gaming sector. Since gamers often spend a lot of time traveling and away from home, handheld devices like the Switch and 3DS have flourished in Japan.

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Tags: Japanese Retailers, Nintendo, Switch 2
June 1, 2025

Koei Tecmo: Switch 2 Can’t Run Nobunaga’s Ambition in 4K/60fps

Key Takeaways

1. Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition launches on June 5th, alongside the Switch 2, featuring new content and improved graphics.
2. Koei Tecmo’s team faced challenges achieving 4K resolution and 60 fps, settling for 1080p at 30 fps due to the Switch 2’s limitations.
3. The new Switch 2 offers enhanced visuals, making gaming experiences more immersive, but some games may not meet player expectations.
4. Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening does not use DLSS upscaling, which is disappointing given the console’s support for Nvidia’s technology.
5. The game supports Joy-Con mouse mode and wired USB mice, allowing for a more PC-like experience for mobile strategy gamers.

Many games are likely to take advantage of the improved specs of the Switch 2. However, a developer from Koei Tecmo working on Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening mentioned that some games might not live up to what players expect. In an interview with Wccftech, Michi Ryu shared that their team struggled to maintain smooth gameplay at 4K resolution and 60 frames per second. They had to significantly reduce the graphical settings, and the game does not use DLSS upscaling.

Release Details

Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition is set to launch on June 5th, coinciding with the Switch 2 release. This grand strategy game from Japan changed the gaming landscape since its debut in 1983, focusing on history and RPG elements. The game was first released in 2022 for PC, PS4, and Switch, and the Complete Edition will introduce new scenarios, downloadable content, and better graphics.

Console Advancements

Michi Ryu, producer and director at Koei Tecmo, mentioned that Nintendo’s new console has become a more powerful handheld device. He noted that the visuals of “the sea, sky, and ground feel much more realistic, making the gaming experience more immersive.” Despite this, he hoped to offer a mode that could showcase 4K resolution at 60 fps. Sadly, the specs of the Switch 2 fell short for rendering intricate 3D maps at those settings. Ultimately, the team decided on a more attainable goal of 1080p at 30 fps.

Technology Limitations

It’s a letdown that Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening won’t utilize DLSS, which is worth mentioning. The Tegra T239 processor in the console is somewhat outdated but does support Nvidia’s upscaling technology. Games like Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition on Switch 2 benefit from DLSS in various handheld and docked modes. Consequently, some demos of this title have impressed players, sometimes outperforming the usual Steam Deck results.

Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition takes full advantage of the Joy-Con mouse mode available on the Switch 2. With wired USB mice also an option, mobile strategy gamers can enjoy similar benefits to those playing on a PC.

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Tags: DLSS, Nobunaga’s Ambition, Switch 2
May 30, 2025

Nintendo Details Pokémon Scarlet and Violet’s Switch 2 Benefits

Key Takeaways

1. Pokémon Legends: Z is launching on October 16th, generating excitement for upcoming Switch 2 games.
2. The original Switch games will receive performance enhancements through backward compatibility.
3. A free update for Pokémon Scarlet and Violet will be released on June 5th, improving visuals and frame rates.
4. Pokémon Scarlet and Violet faced significant technical issues at launch, including low frame rates and visual problems.
5. Nintendo has not confirmed if the new specifications will achieve desired frame rates, raising concerns among players.

Much of the focus is currently on the upcoming Switch 2 games, particularly with the Pokémon Legends: Z-A set to launch on October 16th. However, the original Switch games will also benefit from performance enhancements due to backward compatibility. Critics had a lot of negative feedback regarding Pokémon Scarlet and Violet because of its technical problems when it was released in 2022. Nintendo has shared on its Japanese site how the Switch 2 specifications will enhance the open-world RPG experience. Sadly, some important questions about frame rate options are still without answers.

Free Updates Coming Soon

On the release date of June 5th for the Switch 2, Nintendo plans to roll out a free update for Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. As per the company, players “will be able to see Pokémon from a greater distance, making them appear even more vibrant. With better frame rates and other enhancements, movement becomes smoother, allowing for a more enjoyable adventure.” There are two screenshots available for fans to look at, but it’s still unclear what the resolution and frame rate options will be.

Performance Issues Persist

When Pokémon Scarlet and Violet was launched in 2022, many players quickly observed visual problems. Frame rates frequently dropped below 30 fps, and issues like pop-in and clipping were widespread. Nintendo has made slight performance improvements through patches. Nevertheless, the console still has trouble displaying environments filled with activity. Some gamers point fingers at the developer, Game Freak, for the poorly optimized code in its Pokémon titles. Additionally, limitations in the Switch’s CPU and memory likely worsened these problems.

While Nintendo assures better frame rates, it hasn’t confirmed whether the desired 60 fps will be achieved. If 1080p is an option, it remains to be seen how smooth the gameplay will actually be. The Switch 2 specifications, which include an Nvidia Tegra T239 processor and upgraded memory capacity, might help eliminate the choppiness. However, unlike other Switch 2 games that come with paid upgrades, expectations are lower for the free Pokémon Scarlet and Violet update.

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Tags: Nvidia Tegra T239, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, Switch 2
May 30, 2025

Russian Podcaster Behind Switch 2 Leaks Unfazed by Nintendo Lawsuit

Key Takeaways

1. Fedor Volkov, a Russian podcaster, believes Nintendo’s limited presence in Russia reduces the risk of legal action against him for sharing details about the Switch 2.
2. Volkov imported a Switch 2 before its official launch, paying about $800 through connections from someone traveling from Dubai.
3. His unboxing video provided key insights into the console’s specifications and a required day-one update to play games.
4. Despite Volkov’s confidence, legal experts warn that underestimating Nintendo’s legal power could be a mistake, referencing past lawsuits the company has pursued in Russia.
5. Nintendo has focused on removing leaks from platforms like YouTube and social media rather than pursuing individual users like Volkov.

Nintendo lawsuits for copyright violations are frequent in many nations. Yet, a Russian podcaster thinks that its influence doesn’t reach his increasingly cut-off country. Kotaku chatted with Fedor Volkov, who bought an imported handheld just nine days before the Switch 2’s launch date.

Unboxing and Insights

In a video where he unboxed the device, the gamer shared some details about the Switch 2’s specifications and settings options. Volkov also mentioned that a day-one update is required to start playing Switch games. This footage provided one of the most thorough looks at the console so far. The podcaster even showed his face at one moment, showing confidence in his reveal.

Sourcing the Console

Using connections, Volkov managed to buy a Switch 2 from someone traveling to Russia from Dubai. He quickly got his hands on the handheld, spending about $800. After Nintendo stopped selling in Russia in 2022, gamers have turned to similar methods to get their hands on consoles and games.

Legal Risks

Volkov feels that, given Nintendo’s minimal presence in Russia, the company doesn’t have the authority or resources to go after him. He also defends his leaks about the Switch 2 by noting that he paid for the console and never agreed to any NDA. Many legal experts might argue, though, that underestimating the company’s power is a mistake. Nintendo has indeed taken legal action against a business in Russia before.

Back in 2022, Nintendo sued KupiVip, a company that ran an online store in Russia. While the specifics are unclear, it’s thought that the shutdown of the business led Nintendo to seek damages. Nevertheless, Volkov doesn’t claim to operate a formal business. It’s uncertain if Nintendo will bother to track him down. For now, it seems easier for the company to ensure that platforms like YouTube and social media promptly take down any Switch 2 leaks.

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Tags: Fedor Volkov, Nintendo, Switch 2
May 28, 2025

Nintendo Switch 2 Unboxing Leaked, Needs Day-One Patch to Play

Key Takeaways

1. An unboxing video of the Switch 2 was shared by YouTuber a2dubai, showing parts of the dock and Joy-Cons, but it has since been taken down.
2. The video hinted at a necessary update for the handheld device to function properly, with a day-one patch expected to enable features like microSD Express support and 3D audio.
3. Despite the Home Menu being accessible, no games from the original Switch or Switch 2 will run until the official launch on June 5th.
4. Nintendo is facing challenges with leaks ahead of the Switch 2’s release, and complaints have emerged about “bricked” consoles being shipped.
5. Sharing early video content poses legal risks, as Nintendo is known for taking action against early leaks and disruptions to their release schedules.

With the arrival of shipments at stores ahead of the Switch 2 launch, it was only a matter of time before an unboxing video appeared. The first glimpse inside the package has now been shared online. A YouTuber named a2dubai posted a short seven-second clip (which has since been taken down) showing parts of the dock and Joy-Cons. The user also mentioned that an update is needed for the handheld to work.

Brief Video Insights

Sadly, the video is quite short and does not show the poster taking anything out of the box. When people in the YouTube comments asked for more content, a2dubai mentioned that he was waiting for June 5th. It seems that the day-one patch will do more than just enable microSD Express card support and 3D audio. Wario64, who shared the unboxing video on social media, offered additional details. While the Home Menu might be accessible, no games from the original Switch or Switch 2 will be able to run.

Leak Concerns

Months ahead of the Switch 2’s launch, Nintendo couldn’t stop mostly accurate leaks from surfacing. However, they are trying hard to keep players from using the console before its June 5th release. Most reviewers won’t get their hands on samples until the system is officially out. Complaints are already growing about the company shipping consoles that are “bricked.” It’s still unclear if the Switch 2 has any features that work without an internet connection.

Risks of Sharing

Even with such a short video, a2dubai is putting himself in a risky position with Nintendo. The gaming giant is known for taking legal action against anyone who disrupts its release schedules. Some fans are bracing for more Switch 2 leaks, especially since Target has been spotted with stockpiles of consoles that are locked up. From the hints in the YouTube post, it looks like, true to his name, the console came from a retailer in the Middle East.

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Tags: Nintendo, Switch 2, unboxing video
May 27, 2025

Nintendo Today! App Blocks Screen Captures of Copyrighted Switch 2 Videos

Key Takeaways

1. The Nintendo Today! app provides news and updates about the upcoming Switch 2, but many gamers prefer social media or YouTube for information.
2. Nintendo has restricted screen captures in the app, indicating stronger measures to protect its intellectual property.
3. Some gamers believe these changes may be due to stricter DRM (Digital Rights Management) measures, with potential loopholes being closed.
4. The app offers limited in-game video captures and updates about new features, though much of this information has already been leaked.
5. Nintendo frequently takes legal action against copyright infringement but aims to increase app downloads despite frustrations from content creators.

The Nintendo Today! app shares news and updates as we approach the release of the Switch 2. However, many gamers prefer to find out more about the console through social media or YouTube. Recently, Nintendo has made it harder to share content by blocking screen captures in the app. This move is yet another instance of the company taking strong measures to safeguard its intellectual properties.

Observations from Reddit

A Reddit user named Cube_play_8 was among the first to spot this change in the Nintendo Today! app. The user believes that Nintendo might have implemented stricter DRM measures. While some smartphones still have the ability to record video or take screenshots, these loopholes might be closed soon. Creative users have already discovered methods to download videos from Nintendo’s Content Delivery Network. Additionally, fans can use a second smartphone to record media.

Mixed Feelings Among Gamers

Not every gamer sees Nintendo’s app as vital. Nonetheless, it sometimes reveals new information about the Switch 2’s specifications. Interestingly, the app has recently shown in-game video captures from the console, which are limited to 30 seconds. Other updates detailed the new Joy-Con mouse mode and features for extending the handheld’s battery life. Many of these insights weren’t surprising, as they had already been discussed in previous Switch 2 leaks.

Legal Actions and Access to Content

Nintendo often takes legal action against individuals accused of copyright infringement. This includes cases like the Teraleak Pokémon leaker and streamers who showcase unreleased games. However, the videos and images on Nintendo Today! are accessible to anyone with an account. The gaming company likely aims to encourage more players to download its new app. Still, this situation is frustrating for content creators and fans eager to find out more about the specifications and games of the Switch 2.

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Tags: DRM Restrictions, Nintendo Today!, Switch 2
May 26, 2025

Switch 2 Set to Break Launch Day Sales Record in Japan with Pre-Orders

Key Takeaways

1. The Switch 2 is projected to launch with over 1.2 million units in Japan, surpassing previous sales records for consoles.
2. Japan’s unique sales strategy includes lotteries for console reservations to manage high demand and prevent disorder.
3. Initial lottery results show approximately 517,987 units secured, with an additional 281,426 available in a second round, totaling about 1.2 million consoles.
4. The Switch 2 is expected to significantly outperform previous consoles, with the original Switch selling 330,000 units in its first weekend.
5. Nintendo forecasts selling 15 million units of the Switch 2 in its first fiscal year, which may be conservative given the strong pre-order numbers.

If the pre-order lotteries for the Switch 2 are any sign, the handheld is set to smash launch week console sales records in Japan. Based on surveys of those who entered the lotteries, we can estimate how many consoles will be needed. A well-known Japanese YouTube channel reports that over 1.2 million units could be available at launch in the country. This amount would far exceed the previous records held by other Nintendo and Sony consoles.

Unique Sales Strategy

To prevent disorder, Japan opted for a different strategy in selling the system compared to other areas. Besides the Nintendo Store, various retailers in Japan also organized lotteries for customers to reserve their consoles. After witnessing 2.2 million entries in its lottery, Nintendo acknowledged that they wouldn’t have enough consoles to fulfill the demand. Surveys of the lottery entrants reveal just how many fans were left empty-handed.

Lottery Results

In the initial lottery round, it is estimated that gamers secured 517,987 units. Those who didn’t win had a second chance in another round, which distributed an additional 281,426 consoles. When we consider the pre-order sales from other retailers in Japan, the projected launch day total for the handhelds rises to 1,227,670. However, this inventory likely won’t be sufficient to meet the expectations of buyers.

Outlook for Sales

Even though these are just estimates, it would take a significant miscalculation for the Switch 2 not to outperform previous consoles. For instance, the original Switch managed to sell 330,000 units in its first weekend on the market in Japan. Comparative reports indicate that around 600,000 PS2 systems were sold shortly after its launch.

If the Switch 2 maintains strong sales following its release date, it could set new global benchmarks for console sales. Nintendo has surprised some market analysts by forecasting that 15 million units would be sold in its first fiscal year. This figure seems rather cautious, especially considering the handheld’s pre-order numbers have surpassed expectations.

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Tags: console sales, Nintendo, Switch 2