Nintendo is prepared to combat Switch 2 launch shortages and scalpers, stating, "We are making preparations." Following its recent financial report, Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa addressed concerns about a repeat of the original Switch's 2017 launch shortages. He assured Nikkei (as translated by VGC), "We will take all possible measures based on the experience we have accumulated to date (regarding scalpers and the like). We are making preparations."
AnswerSee ResultsThese "preparations" likely involve significantly increasing Switch 2 production. Last year, Nintendo emphasized sufficient manufacturing to meet demand as the primary strategy against scalpers. The original Switch's 2017 launch suffered from limited supply, fueling scalping. However, Furukawa stated in July 2024 that the Switch successor's launch will be different: "As a countermeasure against resale, we believe that the most important thing is to produce a sufficient number to meet customer demand, and this idea has not changed since last year." He also noted that semiconductor shortages, which previously hampered Switch production, have been resolved.
A Switch 2 Direct is scheduled for April 2nd, with further details and hands-on events planned globally.
Furukawa also addressed declining Switch sales, dismissing the notion that this was due to consumers awaiting the Switch 2. He maintained that sales, while not meeting targets, represent a strong eighth year for the console. Nintendo plans to continue supporting the original Switch "as long as there is demand," with Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond slated for 2025 release.
