Nintendo Switch has been the leader in console sales in Japan since its release, but the PlayStation 5 posed a challenge earlier this year with improved availability in stores. However, in March, Nintendo Switch once again came out on top.
Despite PlayStation 5 frequently taking the top spot in sales, Nintendo Switch remained a strong competitor and managed to resist the Sony console’s onslaught during one of its best sales months.
According to Famitsu sales estimates, Nintendo Switch sold over 231,000 units across its three models from February 27 to March 26, 2023. In comparison, PlayStation 5 sold just over 223,000 units across its two models, resulting in Nintendo Switch reclaiming the number one spot in sales.
Although PlayStation 5 saw a rebound in sales at the beginning of the year and took the crown of the sales list in February, it was not enough to maintain the lead in March.
Kirby’s Return to Dream Land Deluxe, a popular title in physical format, contributed greatly to Nintendo Switch’s success. The game debuted at the end of February and sold over 174,112 units in March alone.
In terms of the best-selling physical format games in Japan during March 2023, Kirby’s Return to Dream Land Deluxe was in first place, followed by Resident Evil 4 Remake on PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 with 89,662 and 85,371 units sold respectively.
It is important to note that only the first three days of Resident Evil 4 Remake’s release were taken into account for this estimate.
Other games in the top ten included Pokémon Scarlet & Violet, Splatoon 3, Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Hogwarts Legacy, Atelier Ryza 3: Alchemist of the End & the Secret Key, and OCTOPATH TRAVELER II.
Nintendo’s success in Japan demonstrates the continued demand for the Switch console, even in the face of stiff competition from the PlayStation 5.
It will be interesting to see if Nintendo can maintain its lead in the coming months, especially with the upcoming release of highly anticipated titles such as the next Legend of Zelda game.
