Next-Generation Console Set for June Launch Amid Market Shifts and Industry Expectations

Nintendo has confirmed the release of its long-awaited Switch 2 console, scheduled to hit the market on 5 June 2025. The updated hybrid gaming system will retail for US$449.99 (S$601.37), marking a price increase compared to its predecessor.

Nintendo’s Next Leap in Gaming
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The Kyoto-based gaming giant revealed additional details on Wednesday following an initial announcement in January. Analysts predict a smooth transition to the new system, as its core design retains the hybrid functionality that made the original Switch a success while incorporating key hardware upgrades.

Among the improvements, the Switch 2 boasts a larger display, integrated mouse controls, and a dedicated chat button on the controller.

In Japan, Nintendo will offer two pricing options: a 49,980 yen (S$455.77) version featuring only the Japanese language, and a 69,980 yen model supporting multiple languages.

“The price is slightly higher than anticipated,” remarked Serkan Toto, founder of gaming consultancy Kantan Games, attributing the increase to inflation and pricing strategies influenced by competitors like Sony, whose PlayStation Pro launched last year for US$699.99.

A Strong Legacy and Market Impact
The original Nintendo Switch, which debuted in March 2017 at US$299.99, revitalised the company after the Wii U’s struggles. To date, the console has sold over 150 million units, thanks to hardware updates and hit franchises like Super Mario and The Legend of Zelda.

Industry experts view the Switch 2 as a premium platform with a more expansive software library than initially expected. Announced game titles include:

Mario Kart World

Enhanced versions of The Legend of Zelda Switch titles

Classic GameCube games for Nintendo Online subscribers

Investor focus now shifts to hardware supply chains, a concern after past disruptions affected Switch availability. According to Goldman Sachs analyst Minami Munakata, Nintendo’s balance sheet indicators suggest a production target of over 10 million units in the first year.

Market and Economic Factors
The Switch 2’s launch coincides with heightened global trade tensions, as US President Donald Trump enforces new tariffs on imported goods. Analysts suggest that the higher US price compared to Japan may reflect tariff costs.

Shifting industry trends—including the rise of subscription-based gaming services and increased backwards compatibility—are expected to ease the transition to the new console generation.

“The scenario resembles Sony’s PS4-to-PS5 shift, where earnings remained steady without a major downturn,” wrote Munakata.

Despite the excitement, Nintendo’s stock fell 3% on Thursday after the announcement, following a record high in February. The benchmark index dropped 3.5%, suggesting that investors remain cautious about whether the new hardware will drive significant long-term growth.

Market strategist Amir Anvarzadeh of Asymmetric Advisors commented, “Nintendo has already outperformed expectations, and it remains uncertain whether this new console alone will justify the company’s current valuation.”