Nintendo has revealed new details about its upcoming Switch 2 console, including preparations for high demand and its pricing strategy, during its latest earnings briefing. President Shuntaro Furukawa confirmed that Nintendo is taking proactive steps to ensure sufficient supply while also addressing concerns about scalping and production challenges.
Anticipating Strong Demand
Furukawa emphasized that Nintendo expects significant demand for the Switch 2 and is taking the necessary precautions to meet it. “As of now, we are taking the risk and proceeding with production to meet as large a demand as possible,” he stated. The company plans to gauge initial demand based on the response to its April 4 Nintendo Direct presentation and the upcoming hands-on Switch 2 Experience events.
To avoid past supply shortages, Nintendo is implementing strategies that will allow it to ramp up production if necessary. Furukawa acknowledged that scaling up production quickly is not easy, referencing the supply chain issues that affected the original Switch in 2020. “So based on our prior experience, we are making preparations to be able to respond as quickly as possible,” he added.
Addressing Scalping and Supply Chain Stability
One of Nintendo’s key strategies for ensuring accessibility to genuine consumers is maintaining an ample supply. Unlike previous launches that suffered from chip shortages and scalper-related issues, Nintendo has taken early steps to secure a reliable supply chain. Despite these efforts, scalpers have already found a loophole, attempting to resell non-transferable Switch 2 Experience tickets on eBay.
Pricing Strategy and Considerations
Although Nintendo has yet to confirm the price of the Switch 2, Furukawa discussed the factors influencing the pricing decision. He mentioned inflation, currency exchange fluctuations, and consumer expectations as key elements under consideration. “I cannot tell you a specific price for Nintendo Switch 2 at this time, but we are taking various factors into account,” Furukawa explained.
While there is no official pricing information yet, industry analysts estimate the Switch 2 could launch at around $400. The original Nintendo Switch debuted in 2017 at $300, which, adjusted for inflation, equates to approximately $388 today. This suggests a $400 price tag for the Switch 2 would be in line with historical pricing trends.
Additionally, Furukawa confirmed that Nintendo has no plans to reduce the price of the original Switch hardware. This decision aligns with Nintendo’s strategy of maintaining strong sales of its current console while transitioning to the next generation.
What’s Next for the Switch 2?
With anticipation building for the Switch 2’s official reveal, Nintendo is positioning itself to deliver a successful launch while avoiding past pitfalls. Fans can expect more concrete details following the April 4 Nintendo Direct, where the company will likely share additional insights into the console’s features, launch titles, and pricing.
As Nintendo prepares for its next-generation console, its careful planning and experience-driven strategies suggest a smoother transition for consumers, with supply shortages and scalping mitigation at the forefront of its approach.
