Nintendo’s latest console release the Nintendo Switch 2 has taken the gaming world by storm. Officially launched on June 5, 2025, it has shattered expectations, becoming the fastest-selling device in Nintendo’s history. Within just four days, the company moved over 3.5 million units worldwide surpassing the original Switch’s first-month sales of approximately 2.7 million units.
The surge in demand has rippled through U.S. retailers, with major stores like Best Buy, GameStop, Target, and Walmart facing widespread shortages and even changing store hours to manage the frenzy. As Nintendo races to ramp up production and fulfill orders, fans remain eager to see how this momentum will shape the console market over the coming months.
Nintendo Switch 2 sets new sales record
Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 has become its fastest-selling console ever, moving over 3.5 million units in its first four days of sale. This impressive figure not only outpaces the original Switch’s early performance but also underscores Nintendo’s ability to generate excitement even eight years after its last major hardware release.
Retailers experience widespread stock shortages
Following the launch, U.S. retailers quickly sold out, with “out of stock” notifications appearing across websites. In-stores at Target, Best Buy, and GameStop faced long queues, early openings, and limited inventory per customer to control demand. Walmart and Best Buy even adjusted store hours, opening at midnight and limiting per-person purchases to accommodate the surge.
Features driving demand for Switch 2
The new console boasts substantial upgrades: a 7.9-inch LCD screen at 1080p/120 Hz, 4K output when docked, a powerful 12GB LPDDR5X RAM, upgraded Joy-Con 2 controllers with improved ergonomics and mouse-like functionality, and the new GameChat2 voice and video chat feature. These enhancements have resonated with gamers seeking both portable and immersive console experiences.
Launch titles bolster the appeal
Official launch titles like Mario Kart World—with massive 24-player races and open-world elements and upgraded versions of fan-favorite games like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom have amplified consumer interest. The combination of popular franchises and next-gen features has fueled eagerness among both longtime Nintendo fans and newcomers.
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Supply chain challenges and production ramp-up
Nintendo is urging its manufacturing partner Foxconn and others to increase production to meet demand after President Shuntaro Furukawa publicly apologized for shortages. The company also shifted some production to Vietnam to counter U.S.–China tariff impacts.
Price tag and tariff concerns
The Switch 2 launched at $449.99, higher than its predecessor, but Nintendo has stated it will hold off on raising prices further. However, analysts warn U.S. tariffs could add 7–8% or more to the retail cost unless trade tensions ease.
Market reactions and stock performance
Nintendo’s share price dropped about 3–5% following concerns around tariffs and supply bottlenecks. Still, most analysts remain bullish, projecting first-year sales between 15 and 20 million units. Atul Goyal of Jefferies reaffirmed a “Buy” rating, highlighting the console’s strong brand and momentum.
Fan excitement and global launch scenes
From San Francisco to Tokyo and New York, fans lined up for launch events and midnight releases—the U.S. experienced lines at flagship stores like Best Buy and Nintendo’s own locations, while Japan saw 2.2 million lottery entries for limited stock.
Looking ahead – production and future games
Nintendo plans to produce enough consoles to meet holiday demand and Father’s Day promotions, with promises of consistent supply through 2025—even as shipping and tariffs loom. Upcoming blockbuster titles, including Donkey Kong Bananza and Pokemon Legends: Z-A, are expected later in 2025, further fueling demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Nintendo Switch 2 in such high demand?
Its larger 7.9″ 1080p screen, 4K docked output, faster performance, new Joy‑Con 2 controllers, and popular game lineup have combined to create exceptional buzz.
How many Switch 2 units have sold so far?
Nintendo has sold over 3.5 million units in just four days, setting an all-time record for the company.
Why are U.S. stores running out of stock?
The demand far exceeded supply, and retailers like Best Buy, GameStop, Target, and Walmart rapidly depleted their launch allocations.
What is Nintendo doing to fix the shortage?
Nintendo has instructed partners like Foxconn to increase production while propping up supply chains, including shifting output to Vietnam.
Could tariffs increase the price of the Switch 2?
Yes—Nintendo warned tariffs could add 7–8% to costs, with worse-case scenarios reaching 30%, though the company hasn’t changed pricing yet.
How does the launch compare to the original Switch?
The original sold about 2.7 million units in its first month; by contrast, the Switch 2 exceeded that in just four days.
Will Nintendo meet the projected 15M sales goal?
Analysts predict the potential to surpass it: estimates range from 15 million (Nintendo’s own) up to 20 million units in the first year.
Are new games coming soon?
Yes—titles like Donkey Kong Bananza (July 2025) and Pokemon Legends: Z-A later in 2025 are lined up to expand the system’s appeal.
Conclusion
The Nintendo Switch 2 has surged out of the gate, selling over 3.5 million units in four days and creating vast shortages across U.S. retailers. Its upgraded hardware, hybrid appeal, and strong launch game lineup have captivated consumers worldwide. Nintendo is working hard to ramp production, combat tariff pressures, and deliver more stock ahead of the holiday season. With demand accelerating, experts believe it could top 15–20 million sales in its first year.
