^{Photo: Forbes}

Console Surge Kicks Off

Nintendo launched its next-generation hybrid console, the Switch 2, on June 5 2025, and the global response has been remarkable. Reports indicate more than 3.5 million units sold in just the first four days, making it the company’s fastest-selling hardware ever.
Today, Nintendo disclosed that it expects to sell approximately 19 million Switch 2 units in the fiscal year ending March 2026 — up sharply from its earlier target of 15 million units — underscoring the momentum behind the platform.

Financials: Revenue and Profit Skyrocket

Performance in the fiscal second quarter (ending Sept. 30) has been robust, reflecting both stronger hardware sales and expanding software engagement. Revenue reached ¥527.2 billion (~US$3.7 billion), beating expectations of around ¥461.8 billion. Net profit came in at ¥102.9 billion, well above the forecast of ¥63.6 billion.
That equates to a year-on-year revenue increase of more than 90 %, and profit growth exceeding 270 %, highlighting the dramatic turn in Nintendo’s growth trajectory.

Hardware and Software: All The Key Numbers

Nintendo reported that 4.54 million Switch 2 units were sold in the September quarter alone, with cumulative lifetime sales of 10.36 million units since launch.
On the software side, the platform moved 11.95 million software units for Switch 2 in that same quarter, driven by hit titles like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza.

Raised Forecasts: Bolder Ambitions

With this surge, Nintendo has adjusted its full-year outlook: it now expects net sales of ¥2.25 trillion, up from an earlier forecast of ¥1.9 trillion. Net profit outlook has been boosted to ¥350 billion, representing nearly a 17 % increase over previous guidance.
Analyst firm DFC Intelligence projects long-term hardware sales of over 100 million Switch 2 units by end of 2029, underscoring how Nintendo aims to position this console as its next flagship platform.

Strategic Game Line-Up + Hybrid Offerings

Nintendo plans to leverage major first-party franchises to sustain the hardware momentum. Recent launches include Pokémon Legends: Z-A (bundled with the Switch 2), along with titles such as Kirby Air Riders and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond scheduled for release later in the year. The company emphasises platform continuity, noting that Switch 2 supports previous-generation games while delivering upgraded specs.
Despite the stronger forecast, Nintendo’s management notes potential headwinds, pointing to the higher retail price of the console compared with its predecessor and uncertain macro conditions. Still, the strong early results suggest the hybrid home/portable format remains extremely appealing.

What This Means & The Road Ahead

For the gaming market, the Switch 2 rally signals revitalised competition. With its hybrid design, strong legacy software catalogue and growing third-party support, Nintendo is challenging rivals in new ways.
For Nintendo itself, the key questions now are supply resilience during the critical holiday season, maintaining software momentum, and converting early adopters into long-term users. The increases in forecast show confidence — but execution will be closely watched.

In short: Nintendo isn’t merely launching a new console — it’s staking its next growth chapter on the Switch 2. The early performance and upgraded targets suggest that the gamble may well pay off.