Nintendo Switch 2 Sells Over 6 Million Units in 7 Weeks, Keeps Full-Year Sales Target
Nintendo has announced a strong start for its next-generation console, the Switch 2, with over 6 million units sold within the first seven weeks of launch. The Japanese gaming giant revealed the figures in its April–June 2025 earnings report, citing robust demand for the long-awaited successor to the original Nintendo Switch.
Despite global trade tensions and supply chain concerns—especially due to U.S. President Donald Trump’s ongoing trade war—Nintendo stated that tariff measures had no material impact on its projections. The company reaffirmed its forecast to sell 15 million Switch 2 units by the end of the fiscal year in March 2026.
Early Success Points to Strong Consumer Demand
Serkan Toto, founder of gaming consultancy Kantan Games, remarked,
“The six million units sold are a testament to the incredible pent-up demand for an update of the first Switch.”
This momentum reflects consumer anticipation for a hardware refresh, with improved graphics and performance enhancements. The Switch 2 launched globally on June 5, 2025, bundled with major game titles like:
- Mario Kart World
- The Legend of Zelda (upgraded version)
These games were pivotal in driving software and hardware sales. During the April–June quarter, Nintendo sold 8.67 million units of Switch 2 software, with Mario Kart World being a frequent bundle offering.
Financial Performance Beats Expectations
Nintendo posted an operating profit of 56.9 billion yen ($378 million) for Q1 FY2026, representing a 4% year-on-year growth. This exceeded most analysts’ projections, highlighting the Switch 2’s early commercial success.
Upcoming Game Titles to Sustain Momentum
In addition to strong launch titles, Nintendo is banking on new releases to maintain its lead throughout the rest of the year. Notably:
- Donkey Kong Bananza, released on July 17, 2025, has received universal acclaim with a Metacritic score of 92/100.
Serkan Toto noted the strategic opportunity Nintendo currently holds:
“Nintendo must use the momentum and the absence of blockbuster GTA 6 this year to carry the Switch 2 through to the holidays.”
Nintendo’s Strategy Moving Forward
With no significant supply disruptions and a strong software pipeline, Nintendo appears well-positioned to dominate the gaming market in 2025. The company’s ability to bundle top-tier software with new hardware, combined with favourable market timing, gives it a unique edge in a year without a major Grand Theft Auto (GTA) launch from competitors.
Key Takeaways:
- Switch 2 sales top 6 million units in seven weeks after June launch.
- 15 million units sales target for FY ending March 2026 remains unchanged.
- Operating profit up 4% to 56.9 billion yen ($378M).
- Mario Kart World and Zelda upgrades are among the top software sellers.
- Donkey Kong Bananza gains critical acclaim with a 92/100 Metacritic score.
