Nintendo Switch Delay: Shares Plunge as Firm Pushes Back Next Console to 2025
Shares of Nintendo Co Ltd took a hit today after reports surfaced that the gaming giant plans to delay the release of its highly anticipated follow-up to the Nintendo Switch console until 2025. The news comes as a blow to both gamers and investors, as the console was originally slated for a 2024 launch.
According to sources, Nintendo has advised some video game publishers to not expect the debut of the new console until at least March 2025. This means that the company will miss out on the lucrative year-end holiday shopping season in 2024, which could have been a significant boost for their sales.
The timing of this delay couldn't be worse for Nintendo, as sales of the Switch have been slowing down in recent years. As the console approaches the end of its lifecycle, critics have voiced concerns about its processing power compared to newer and more advanced consoles like the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5.
Despite these challenges, the Nintendo Switch has proven to be immensely popular since its launch in 2017. It currently stands as the third-highest selling videogame console of all time, lagging behind the Nintendo DS and Sony's PlayStation 2. With nearly 140 million units sold, it has undoubtedly left a significant mark on the gaming industry.
To address the slowing sales, Nintendo had been working on a follow-up to the Switch. Rumors circulated that the company even showcased the new hardware to major game developers. However, with the delay now announced, fans will have to wait longer than expected to get their hands on the next console from the gaming powerhouse.
The Nintendo Switch's lasting success can largely be attributed to its library of exclusive, first-party games. Titles like "The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom" and "Super Mario Bros Wonder" have helped extend the console's lifespan by offering unique and immersive gaming experiences.
Although this delay is undoubtedly disappointing for fans, it's important to remember that Nintendo remains a formidable player in the gaming industry. While the company may face challenges in the near term, their ability to create innovative and beloved games will likely continue to resonate with consumers.
As we navigate an evolving gaming landscape, it will be interesting to see how Nintendo adapts and competes with the latest gaming consoles. For now, fans will have to exercise their patience and wait until 2025 to experience the next generation of Nintendo gaming.
Analyst comment
Negative news. The delay in the release of the follow-up to the Switch console until 2025, missing the key holiday shopping season in 2024, will likely result in further slowing sales for Nintendo. The criticism of the Switch’s processing power compared to newer consoles also adds to the negative sentiment.
