The arrival of the Nintendo Switch 2 to the Japanese market It has become one of the most notable releases in recent video game history. From its first days on sale, The console has generated enormous interest, which has boosted sales figures to unprecedented heights in the Asian country. Stores have been overwhelmed, and obtaining a unit in Japan It has become quite a challenge for fans.
From the beginning, Nintendo Switch 2 has managed to exceed all expectations, establishing a absolute record becoming the fastest-selling video game hardware in Japan. The console's debut not only confirms the appeal of Nintendo's next generation, but also underlines the brand strength in its country of origin.
Historic figures: Sales record surpasses PS2
According to data published by Famitsu and reported by media such as Yomiuri and VGC, The Switch 2 has sold at least 1,538,260 units in its first month., a figure that does not include sales made directly by Nintendo. This implies that the actual amount could easily exceed this figure, showing the magnitude of the launch's success.
This sales volume not only It surpasses Nintendo's previous console, the Game Boy Advance, which sold 1,367,433 units. in the same period, but also surpasses the record of the PlayStation 2, which had 1,134,862 units sold in its first month since 2000. If we compare it with the first month of the first Switch, the difference is even greater, since the former reached 556,633 units.
Katan Games advisor, Dr Serkan Toto, stresses that these data do not consider units shipped through the official Nintendo store, so the record could be significantly higherFamitsu makes its estimates based on over 3,000 retailers, which still leaves a margin to cover.
The ranking of consoles that have sold the fastest in the Land of the Rising Sun reflects Nintendo's dominance and the milestone achieved by Switch 2:
- Nintendo Switch 2 - 1,538,260 units
- Game Boy Advance - 1,367,433 units
- Nintendo DS - 1,269,846 units
- PlayStation 2 - 1,134,862 units
- Nintendo Switch (first generation) - 556,633 units
Factors that explain success in Japan
Impact Switch 2 has been boosted by several factorsOne of the main ones has been the launch catalogue, in which titles such as Mario Kart World have played a leading role. This game, included in some console packs, sold more than 1,1 million copies, accounting for approximately 77% of total Switch 2 sales in its first month.
The situation of the Japanese market has also had a significant impact. Nintendo launched two versions of the console in the country: one identical to the international version and a cheaper, region-locked version, aimed solely at the Japanese catalog and at a lower price. This version, supported by government aid, has allowed the console be even more accessible, increasing demand significantly and contributing to supply difficulties in many stores.
The high level of reservations and resale at prices well above the original illustrate the extent to which demand has exceeded forecastsNintendo even had to organize lotteries to distribute the units available in its online store. The My Nintendo Store received more than 2,2 million applications to acquire the console, a situation that demonstrates the magnitude of the phenomenon in Japan.
It's not just the hardware that has shined. The software has also accompanied the success, as titles like Donkey Kong: Bananza and future bets such as Pokémon Legends: ZA They promise to maintain interest in the console throughout the year..
Comparison with previous releases and future expectations
If we look at the initial sales data of other consoles in Japan, The jump from Switch 2 is overwhelmingThe PlayStation 2, which until now held the record for the fastest launch on non-Nintendo consoles, has been widely surpassed at this start, making clear the brand's dominance among Japanese consumers.
This initial success creates high expectations for Nintendo's fiscal report, as many analysts predict that if the current pace continues, Switch 2 could sell over 15 million units in its first year., thus surpassing its predecessor and other platforms that have made history in the sector.
The global outlook is also positive. In the first four days after its global launch, The Switch 2 sold 3,5 million units, consolidating its position as the company's most successful debut. Forecasts indicate that, if supply meets demand, The console could mark a before and after in the industry, both in Japan and the rest of the world.
The Japanese market's reaction to the arrival of the Nintendo Switch 2 has been spectacular, with stores running out of stock almost daily and resale prices skyrocketing due to the shortage. The phenomenon is not only due to the technical innovation of the console, but also to the appeal of its exclusive catalogue and the commercial strategy adapted to the Japanese public.
Everything points to the Nintendo Switch 2 continuing its meteoric rise, positioning Nintendo as a benchmark in the industry. sales milestones that surpass their predecessors and with demand that shows no signs of slowing down, the Switch 2 could be writing the next golden chapter in Japanese video game history.
