Nintendo is known for a lot of things - innovative control schemes (see the Wii, the Nintendo 64 controller, the original Joy-Con controllers, etc.), fan-favorite first-party series (Mario, the Legend of Zelda…there are a lot, okay?), and record-breaking sales numbers (the DS series of portable consoles, the Wii, and the original Nintendo Entertainment System). However, the Switch 2 has seemed to blow all of those consoles’ numbers out of the water, and has shown no signs of stopping thus far.

We’d like to do some research and compare some of the numbers that the Switch 2 has put up with some other of the most best-selling consoles and see how Nintendo’s newest baby holds up. Without further ado, let’s dive in!

Price Comparison

 

It’s kind of weird to make some of these comparisons seeing that the Switch 2 is both a traditional console and an on-the-go device, but we’ll do it anyway. Here’s a breakdown of some of the consoles that we’ll compare it to price-wise, adjusted for inflation.

For reference, the Switch 2 was slated to release for $450:

• Sony PlayStation 2: $548 (21% more expensive)

• Nintendo Wii: $394 (13% less expensive)

• Nintendo Wii U: $484 (7% more expensive)

• Nintendo DSi XL: $279 (38% less expensive)

• Nintendo 64: $402 (11% less expensive)

It’s hard to compare and contrast with such wildly different numbers, but in terms of pure consoles we can say that the Switch 2 pretty much hangs within 20% of every other console in terms of price. Of course, the most comparable console to the Switch 2, other than the original Switch, would have to be the Wii U, by which the Wii U was only 7% more expensive on release. Pretty good numbers so far.

Sales Numbers Comparison

We’ll use the same consoles to compare what their sales within the first week were in the United States, since the Switch 2’s only been out for that long and it’s a good comparator of “hype” for each console, so to speak.

For reference, the Switch sold over 1.1 million units (wow) in its first week:

• Sony PlayStation 2: No weekly numbers, but sold over 500,000 units on its first day alone

• Nintendo Wii: 600,000 units (46% less)

• Nintendo Wii U: 400,000 units (64% less)

• Nintendo DSi XL: 435,000 units (61% less)

• Nintendo 64: 350,000 units (69% less)

It’s pretty easy to see that the Switch 2 has been on a killer run with its sales lately, and people have been noticing.

Reasons for the Hype

There’s no denying it - Nintendo’s Switch 2 launch has been nothing short of historic. But what exactly is fueling the hype and these record-breaking numbers? A few factors immediately stand out:

1. Backwards Compatibility

One of the biggest selling points has been the Switch 2’s ability to play original Switch games right out of the box. For a console with one of the richest libraries in recent memory, this means that new buyers immediately have access to hundreds of polished, high-quality titles - no waiting for a game drought to end. 

2. Improved Hardware

With enhanced graphics, a smoother OLED display, better ergonomics, and improved battery life, Nintendo focused on refining rather than overhauling. Those who didn’t originally purchase the first Switch get to relish in its robust library as well as the new hardware that the Switch 2 offers over the original.

3. Pent-Up Demand

Let’s not forget that Nintendo held off longer than expected to release the Switch 2. With whispers and leaks stretching back over two years, fans were more than ready. It’s also been hard to believe that the original Switch design dates back to over seven years since its release - pretty crazy to think now.

Conclusion

The Switch 2’s launch has been nothing short of a phenomenon. With a competitive price point, strong first-week sales, and a refined hybrid experience, Nintendo has once again proven its unique ability to balance innovation with accessibility. While it’s still early, all signs point to the Switch 2 becoming another major pillar in Nintendo’s long history of hardware success.

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