Nintendo Switch 2 Sales Surge, Causing U.S. Online Stores to Display ‘Out of Stock’ Notices
Nintendo’s recently launched Switch 2 gaming system has achieved a remarkable milestone, selling over 3.5 million units within just four days of its release. This swift demand has led major U.S. retailers to display “out of stock” notifications online. The impressive start marks the gaming console’s debut after eight years, positioning Nintendo toward its goal of selling 15 million units in the fiscal year that concludes in March 2026. Analysts suggest that these projections are conservative, predicting that high demand will continue to be a trend.
Serkan Toto, the CEO of the gaming consultancy Kantan Games, remarked that the market anticipated a strong performance from Nintendo, which has indeed delivered. He forecasts that the Switch 2 could reach over 20 million sales within its first year. David Gibson, a senior research analyst at MST Financial, shares a similar outlook. Since its launch on June 5, the Switch 2 has garnered immense enthusiasm, with fans lining up for extended periods ahead of store openings.
Doug Bowser, President of Nintendo of America, expressed gratitude towards the positive reception, emphasizing the console’s appeal for both home and portable gaming. Despite an almost 30% rise in its Tokyo-listed shares this year, Nintendo’s stock dipped by 3.5% midweek. The company’s ability to replicate the success of its predecessor, which sold 15 million units in its first year and ultimately 152 million, remains uncertain. The initial sales pace aligns with expert predictions but raises concerns regarding supply capacity.
Retail outlets like Walmart and GameStop have reported shortages, highlighting a potential struggle for Nintendo to meet high demand. Even as the company works with retailers to secure ample supply, a shortfall in Japan suggests continued challenges. Additionally, President Trump’s tariffs are expected to impact pricing strategies, adding further complexity to the market landscape. The Switch 2 not only maintains the legacy of its predecessor but also enhances the gaming experience with improved hardware and new features, including GameChat2 for voice and video interaction.