Nintendo is currently navigating several factors as it determines the price for the upcoming Switch 2. While analysts have suggested to IGN that the Switch 2 might retail at $400 upon its anticipated release later this year, Nintendo has yet to officially announce the price for its next-generation console.
In a recent investor Q&A session, Nintendo's president, Shuntaro Furukawa, addressed the topic of pricing. He highlighted the importance of considering current economic conditions, such as inflation and exchange rates, which have shifted significantly since the launch of the original Nintendo Switch in 2017. Furukawa emphasized the need for a comprehensive evaluation of these factors alongside understanding the price expectations of consumers for Nintendo products. "We are aware that, in addition to how inflation is currently proceeding, the exchange rate environment has also changed significantly since around the time we launched Nintendo Switch in 2017," Furukawa stated. He further added, "We also need to consider the price range that consumers expect for Nintendo products. We think a multifaceted consideration of these factors is needed when deciding on the price of a product. I cannot tell you a specific price for Nintendo Switch 2 at this time, but we are taking various factors into account."
AnswerSee ResultsIt's crucial to delve deeper into these considerations. The original Nintendo Switch was launched at $299.99 and maintained that price for several years. Now, nearly eight years later, the question arises: what price range do consumers now expect for Nintendo products? This question gains additional weight considering that competitors like Sony and Microsoft have adjusted the prices of their current-generation consoles due to rising costs, inflation, and currency fluctuations.
Analysts predict that Nintendo might set the Switch 2's price at $400. This would mark an increase from the original Switch's $300 launch price, which Nintendo still holds today, excluding sales or bundles. The Nintendo Switch OLED model is priced at $350, and the Nintendo Switch Lite at $200. While specific details about the Switch 2's specs and features remain scarce beyond Nintendo's brief reveal, indications suggest it will be a larger, more powerful console, supporting the projected $400 price point.
Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look
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Nintendo is planning a Switch 2 Direct event on April 2, where it will provide a more detailed look at the console following its initial reveal last month. The initial reveal showcased the Switch 2's design, hinted at what might be Mario Kart 9, and teased a potential 'mouse' mode for the new Joy-Con. However, many questions remain unanswered, including the function of a mysterious new Joy-Con button, the console's power capabilities, and the purpose of its new ports. Nintendo also plans to host Switch 2 hands-on events in various cities worldwide.
Furukawa confirmed that Nintendo has no plans to adjust the price of the original Switch despite the imminent launch of the Switch 2, suggesting stability in the current model's pricing strategy.
