The Nintendo Switch 2 just redefined what a blockbuster console launch looks like. In an astonishing four‐day window, Nintendo moved 3.5 million units, leaving every competitor in the dust. To put that into perspective, PlayStation 5’s best opening week and Xbox Series X/S’s top numbers can’t come close.
Even on home turf in France, the Switch 2 dominated. Over the launch weekend, 169,000 consoles were snapped up—smashing the PS5’s former record of 107,000 back in 2020. That’s a massive 58% jump over the country’s previous best, and it speaks volumes about Nintendo’s ability to rally fans and newcomers alike.
Nintendo’s Winning Strategy
This runaway success didn’t happen by accident. Nintendo leaned into the massive popularity of the original Switch—which sold over 152 million units—and made sure the sequel was available everywhere without the dreaded shortages. Where 2017’s launch sometimes left gamers empty‐handed, the Switch 2 rollout was stocked to the gills.
Rather than chasing raw processing power, Nintendo stuck to its “innovation through use” philosophy. A slightly larger screen, smoother performance, magnetic Joy‐Con upgrades, and a rock‐solid battery life meant that the hybrid console’s core concept was perfected, not overhauled. The result? A polished, familiar experience that fans have been itching to get their hands on.
Comparisons with PlayStation and Xbox
When Sony released the PS5 in November 2020, excitement was off the charts. Its lightning‐fast SSD and next‐gen graphics promised a new era, and the numbers initially reflected that—over 700,000 units sold in Europe during the first week. Yet it took several weeks across multiple regions to even approach those figures.
Microsoft’s Xbox Series X/S, also launched during the pandemic, touted “the best start in Xbox history.” In reality, industry estimates place its first‐week sales at around 1.2 to 1.4 million globally. Respectable, yes—but still less than half of what Nintendo achieved in just four days. The contrast underlines Nintendo’s unique appeal and the advantages of launching in a normalized supply environment.
The Legacy of the Original Switch
To truly appreciate this success, remember how the first Switch overcame skepticism. Following the Wii U flop, many doubted Nintendo could hit the mark again. Yet, in its first month, the original Switch sold 2.74 million units despite frequent stock shortages. That feat set the stage for everything Nintendo has done since.
Lessons learned on that journey were put to good use. The Switch 2 launch outperformed its predecessor’s one‐month totals in just four days—remarkable, given the new model commands a €150 price premium (€469 vs. €319). Gamers clearly feel the upgrade is worth it, especially when they can carry over their entire digital library without missing a beat.
What You Need to Know About the Switch 2
Curious about the finer points? The Switch 2 boasts full backward compatibility, letting you play your old favorites without repurchase. The improved screen resolution, enhanced CPU and GPU, and refined Joy-Con ergonomics are all designed to elevate your gaming sessions whether you’re docked or on the go.
Before you unbox yours, check out our top five setup tips—everything from adjusting the new HDR display settings to customizing button mappings. If you’re hunting for deals, we’ve rounded up the best retailer prices and bundle offers. Plus, don’t miss our in‐depth video walkthrough where we share first impressions, hidden features, and performance benchmarks. Happy gaming!
