Nintendo has reportedly pushed back the release date of its highly anticipated next-generation Switch console to March 2025, according to new reports from Japanese newspaper Nikkei and other industry sources.
The delay, originally planned for late 2024, aims to accomplish two key goals for the gaming giant: prevent supply shortages and scalping at launch while also ensuring a robust lineup of games is available for the new system.
Previous reports indicated Nintendo wanted to avoid a repeat of the chronic Switch shortages that persisted for nearly a year after its 2017 debut. While estimates suggest initial production runs of 10 million units for the new console, Nintendo hopes to stockpile even more to meet anticipated massive demand.
Nintendo Focuses on Supply and Games in Delaying New Switch
This tactic will also help curtail scalping, the practice of buying up limited supplies of hot products like new game consoles only to resell them at inflated prices. By having ample stock available, Nintendo may be able to satisfy consumer demand without rewarding scalpers.
The additional year will also provide Nintendo’s game designers more time to prepare a compelling game library to showcase the new hardware’s capabilities. First-party titles are expected to drive initial sales, so having recognizable franchises ready at launch is key.
Sources say the new Switch will retain its hybrid portable/home console design but feature upgraded processing power and a larger 8-inch touchscreen, up from the current 6.2-inch size. This will enable improved graphics and gameplay, especially when docked to a TV.
Combating Scalpers and Shortages Key in Switch Delay
Some analysts have expressed concern over the delayed launch, as it misses the lucrative holiday 2024 shopping season. But a March release date allows Nintendo to book first-year sales in its 2025 fiscal year. It also gives retailers time to move existing Switch inventory.
If more time is needed, Nintendo may opt to push the new console’s launch to later in 2025. But for now, the company seems focused on ensuring sufficient supply and a compelling game lineup above all else, even if it means delaying the highly anticipated console another full year.
