The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 won’t be launching anytime soon. Recent reports from industry insiders suggest that the console won’t be released before April 2025, much to the disappointment of eager fans.
Nintendo has confirmed that it will announce its next console during the current fiscal year, which runs until March 31, 2025. However, developers have been told not to expect the Switch 2 to hit the market before April 2025. Some are holding out hope for a release in April or May of next year.
As of June 30, 2024, the Switch has sold an impressive 143.42 million units. Nintendo aims to sell another 13.5 million consoles in the current financial year. The Switch is now in its eighth year, surpassing the Famicom as the Nintendo console with the longest lifespan before being replaced.
The decision to delay the Switch 2’s launch may be influenced by the expected release of Grand Theft Auto 6 in the latter half of 2025. By launching the console in April or May 2025, Nintendo could avoid direct competition with the highly anticipated game.
Nintendo often employs a strategy of releasing a bridge game that spans both the old and new consoles when launching new hardware. This was the case with Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, which was available on both Wii U and Nintendo Switch at launch. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, slated for a 2025 release, could potentially serve a similar purpose for the Switch 2.
To prevent scalpers from monopolizing the inventory, Nintendo has assured its shareholders that it will produce enough Switch 2 units. The company is likely to ramp up production before the spring 2025 launch to ensure a smooth rollout.
The Switch’s sales have been declining year-over-year, making it increasingly challenging to market the original console. The delayed launch of the Switch 2 may be a strategic move to give Nintendo time to clear out existing inventory and prepare for the new console’s release.
While the wait for the Nintendo Switch 2 may be longer than anticipated, Nintendo’s track record of producing high-quality consoles and games suggests that the delay will be worth it in the end.
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