Nintendo is gearing up to tackle Switch 2 launch shortages and outmaneuver scalpers, stating: “We are taking comprehensive steps.”
After announcing its latest financial results, Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa addressed concerns about avoiding the supply shortages that plagued the original Switch launch in 2017.
“We will implement every feasible strategy based on our past experiences with scalpers,” Furukawa told Japanese outlet Nikkei, as translated by VGC. “We are actively preparing.”
What might these “preparations” entail? Producing a large volume of Nintendo Switch 2 units appears to be a priority. Last year, Nintendo emphasized manufacturing enough consoles to meet demand as a primary strategy to counter scalpers.
The original Nintendo Switch launch in March 2017 faced severe supply constraints, enabling scalpers to resell units at inflated prices. However, in July 2024, Furukawa assured that the Switch 2 launch would be handled differently.
“To combat resale, our primary focus is to produce enough units to satisfy customer demand, a stance unchanged from last year,” Furukawa noted at the time.
“We are also exploring additional measures within the boundaries of regional laws and regulations.
“While semiconductor shortages limited Nintendo Switch production in recent years, this issue has been resolved. We do not anticipate component shortages significantly affecting the production of the new model.”
Nintendo has scheduled a Switch 2 Direct for April 2 to share more details. The company will also host Switch 2 hands-on events in various cities globally.
On February 4, 2025, Furukawa addressed the declining sales of the current Nintendo Switch, dismissing suggestions that consumers are holding off for the Switch 2.
“We don’t believe the impact of delayed purchases is significant,” Furukawa stated. “The Switch is performing solidly in its eighth year, though we haven’t met our sales goals.”
Furukawa also confirmed that Nintendo will continue supporting the original Switch post-Switch 2 launch “as long as demand persists.” Titles like Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond are slated for release on the original Switch in 2025.
