Nintendo Switch Moves Closer to Becoming the Best-Selling Video Game Console in History

The Nintendo Switch has achieved a remarkable milestone, positioning itself as the second-best-selling console in the history of the U.S. gaming market. According to Mat Piscatella, Executive Director and Video Game Industry Analyst at Circana, the cumulative lifetime sales of the Nintendo Switch have surpassed those of the iconic PlayStation 2 in the U.S., totaling an impressive 46.6 million units sold as of now.

This achievement places the Nintendo DS as the only console with greater sales figures, though it’s important to note that this comparison is U.S.-specific. As confirmed by Sony on November 26, 2023, the PlayStation 2 remains the best-selling console globally, with 160 million units sold since its launch in 2000.

Globally, the sales figures showcase the Nintendo DS leading the way with 154.02 million units, in contrast to the Nintendo Switch, which reached 146.04 million units sold as of September 2024.

The impending holiday season offers a strategic opportunity for the Nintendo Switch to continue expanding its sales numbers. However, there are indications that its reign may be coming to a close with potential plans for a successor on the horizon.

Nintendo Switch Original Console — Nintendo Switch

Rumors Surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2 Impact Sales Aspirations

As the Nintendo Switch enters its seventh year, rumors about a potential successor have intensified, casting doubt on its ability to become the all-time best-selling console. According to Chris Dring from GameIndustry.biz, developers involved in future projects have indicated that they expect the arrival of the “Switch 2″in the current financial year. This speculation stems from a discussion in the GameIndustry.biz Microcast podcast, where Dring revealed that many hope to see the new console released between April or May 2024.

Previously, Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa suggested that any new hardware would not make an appearance before April 2024. Nevertheless, he reassured fans that “Nintendo Switch software” will remain available on the future successor, potentially allowing the Switch to maintain strong sales even after the new system’s launch.

With these developments, the stage is set for an intriguing transition in the gaming landscape, as the Nintendo Switch strives to solidify its legacy in sales history while preparing for the next chapter.

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