Switch 2 forecast aims to break records
Nintendo has instructed suppliers to manufacture 25 million units of its new Switch 2 console by March 2026, according to a Bloomberg report citing sources familiar with the matter. The company reportedly expects sustained high demand through the holiday season and well into 2025, potentially exceeding its internal forecast of 15 million units sold within the first fiscal year.
If current sales trends continue, Nintendo could reach 20 million Switch 2 units sold by the end of March 2026. The aggressive production target would not only help meet this demand but also ensure sufficient inventory heading into the following fiscal year.
Switch 2 may surpass original console’s record
The original Nintendo Switch launched in March 2017 and sold 17.79 million units within its first 13 months, setting the record as the fastest-selling console of all time. With Switch 2 launching globally on June 5, 2025 — just over four months ago — a 20 million milestone within its first fiscal year would represent a dramatic acceleration in performance.
Pre-orders for the Switch 2 began in April 2025, and early demand has been robust despite geopolitical concerns such as U.S. tariffs. Market researcher Circana reports that Switch 2 sales in the U.S. have already outpaced those of the original Switch over the same time period.
Backward compatibility boosts software sales
Nintendo’s most recent earnings report revealed 8.67 million games sold specifically for the Switch 2 and an additional 24.4 million games sold for the original Switch. Backward compatibility between the two platforms has played a major role in boosting early adoption.
Analysts expect software sales to continue climbing with the release of major titles such as Pokémon Legends: Z-A, set to launch later this month. Nintendo’s ability to leverage its deep game library and strong first-party IP remains a key driver of its hardware success.
