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In a move that surprises absolutely no one, the Nintendo Switch has officially sold over 150 million units worldwide. This impressive milestone places it tantalizingly close to the all-time best-selling consoles: the PlayStation 2 at 155 million units and the Nintendo DS at 154.02 million units. With a bit more hustle, the Switch could very well claim the top spot.
The Journey from Underdog to Top Dog
When the Switch launched in 2017, skeptics were quick to dismiss it. Critics harped on its comparatively modest hardware, especially when stacked against the PS4 and Xbox One. However, Nintendo had a different game plan: a versatile console that could transition seamlessly from home gaming to on-the-go entertainment. Fast forward seven years, and the numbers speak volumes.
A Library Worth Bragging About
Selling consoles is one thing, but moving software is another game entirely. The Switch boasts over 1.36 billion software units sold, indicating that owners are not just letting their consoles gather dust. With blockbuster titles like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons, the Switch’s game library is nothing short of legendary.
Enter the Nintendo Switch 2
As the original Switch continues its victory lap, Nintendo has officially announced its successor: the Nintendo Switch 2, slated for release later this year. The new console promises to build upon its predecessor’s success with several notable enhancements:
- Larger Design: The Switch 2 features a bigger screen, offering a more immersive gaming experience.
- Redesigned Joy-Con Controllers: The controllers have been revamped for improved ergonomics and functionality.
- Backward Compatibility: Gamers can breathe a sigh of relief, as the Switch 2 will support both exclusive new titles and existing Switch games, though some may not be fully compatible.
For those eager to get a closer look, Nintendo has scheduled a Nintendo Direct event on April 2, 2025, to showcase more details about the Switch 2 and its upcoming game lineup.
The Road Ahead
With the Switch 2 on the horizon, the original Switch’s window to become the best-selling console ever is narrowing. However, regardless of whether it clinches the top spot, the Switch has undeniably cemented its place in gaming history. As we anticipate the next chapter with the Switch 2, one thing is clear: Nintendo’s innovative spirit shows no signs of slowing down.