The Nintendo Switch is a massive hit. It’s sold over 130 million units, beating the Wii and catching up to the DS handheld. That means everyone’s wondering – what’s Nintendo’s next move?

Well, Nintendo’s making it clear that the Switch is still its main focus going into 2024, despite all the buzz about a next-gen console. During its latest earnings call, Nintendo’s president, Shuntaro Furukawa, talked about this but remained tight-lipped on a successor to the super popular Switch. But, fingers crossed, we might get some juicy details about what’s next, maybe even a hint at a Switch 2, in its next earnings update in early May.

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Rumors and speculations: the Nintendo Switch 2 release date

Speaking of the Switch 2, there’s a lot of gossip going around. Initially, people were saying it would drop in fall 2024, just in time for the holiday shopping craze. But now, some insiders chatting with VGC are hinting at a release date in the first quarter of 2025.

And guess what? VGC’s not the only one hearing these rumors. A video from a Brazilian journalist and some buzz picked up by Eurogamer are pointing to early 2025 as well. Seems like we might have to wait a bit longer for the next big thing from Nintendo.

If the Switch 2 (which is just a tentative name) launches in early 2025, it’ll be hitting the shelves around the same time as its predecessor, which debuted in March 2017. Two sources close to VGC have even confirmed they’re working on games for this new console, targeted for an early 2025 release.

This “later” release date could be a blessing in disguise for developers, giving them extra time to polish up their launch titles.

Take Metroid Prime 4, for example. Announced way back in 2017, its development hit a reset button in 2019, and we’ve been in the dark about it for five years. There’s some chatter, especially from folks at Polygon, that Nintendo might be saving this big title for the launch of their new console.

The Switch 2, whenever it arrives, is definitely going to have big shoes to fill. Its predecessor isn’t just Nintendo’s top-selling console; it’s also outperformed the latest from Sony and Microsoft.

The financial impact of a delayed Switch 2

In the world of finance, Nintendo’s shares took a 6% dip recently on the 19^th of February, 2024. This came after reports from various gaming media, and Bloomberg, suggested that Nintendo’s next-gen console might be pushed back to early 2025 instead of launching later this year.

Though Nintendo hasn’t dished out specifics about a new console, the company has made it clear that it is always cooking up new hardware and software. The gaming giant is expected to eventually launch a new device to take the baton from the aging Switch.

Nintendo even boosted its sales forecast for the Switch earlier this February, as reported by Reuters. Despite nearing its eighth year, the hybrid home-portable device is still attracting consumers. “We want to maintain the momentum of the Switch business,” said Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa during an earnings briefing.

Nintendo’s upcoming Direct

Looking ahead, Nintendo is gearing up to reveal part of its 2024 Switch lineup. On the 21^st of February at 9AM ET, Nintendo is hosting this year’s first Nintendo Direct. The Verge has reported that it is expecting a 25-minute showcase featuring games from Nintendo’s publishing and development partners, all slated for release in the first half of 2024.

It wasn’t exactly a secret that a Nintendo Direct was around the corner. Microsoft and PlayStation have already shared their upcoming releases, and a quick glance at Nintendo’s pattern shows it likes to kick things off in early February.

Nintendo Direct 2024 is set to air on the 21st of February. (Source – X).

After many rumors and even a data miner’s report, the Nintendo Direct might be when Tango Gameworks finally announces that Hi-Fi Rush is coming to the Switch – especially since Phil Spencer, the head of the Xbox brand and leader of the global creative and engineering teams responsible for gaming at Microsoft, has confirmed that four previously Xbox-exclusive games will be hitting other platforms like the Switch and PS5.

And in the realm of long shots, but still holding onto hope, it’s been half a decade since Nintendo said Metroid Prime 4 was getting a reboot and moving over to Retro Studios, who worked on the first three Primes. It’s been seven years in total since the company announced the game, but let’s not dwell on that too much. Maybe this Direct will shed some light on that, or perhaps Nintendo’s playing it close to the chest for the eventual Switch 2 reveal.

The delay in the Switch 2’s release, though a source of disappointment for eager fans, offers a glimpse into the complex dynamics of game development, market expectations, and corporate strategy. As Nintendo navigates these waters, the gaming community watches with bated breath, curious about the future, yet appreciative of the present era of the Switch.

The post A change in the Nintendo Switch 2 release date? Delayed even further? appeared first on Tech Wire Asia.

Yiiiiiipeee! Excitement is brewing in the gaming world as there are whispers of Nintendo potentially unveiling a new Switch console this year. Analysts are buzzing about this possibility, especially as Nintendo aims to use the widespread appeal of its iconic characters, ranging from Mario to Animal Crossing, Pokémon, Zelda, and others.

The Nintendo Switch, first released in March 2017, revolutionized gaming with its hybrid design. The innovative console allowed gamers to seamlessly transition from playing on their TVs to gaming on the move by attaching a controller to a tablet-like device.

This fusion of traditional console gaming with the flexibility of mobile gaming resonated strongly with the gaming community. To date, Nintendo has sold an impressive 132.46 million units of the Switch, securing its position as the company’s second-most successful console, trailing only behind the handheld Nintendo DS.

The success of the Switch has been a significant growth driver for Nintendo, with the company’s shares soaring over 200% since the console’s launch. The Switch’s enduring appeal has been bolstered by a continuous stream of first-party games featuring beloved characters, with titles involving Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon being some of the top sellers for the console.

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A glimpse into the Switch’s commercial success and future prospects

However, recent financial reports indicate a slowdown in sales, suggesting that it might be time for Nintendo to introduce something fresh and exciting. The company reported a 4% drop in revenue and a 19% decline in profit in its September-quarter results.

Launching a new console this year could be a strategic move for Nintendo, particularly in capitalizing on the growing popularity of its key characters, amplified by recent movie releases. The Super Mario Bros. Movie, for instance, grossed over US$1 billion since its April release, contributing to a spike in Nintendo’s revenue in the June quarter of last year. Additionally, Nintendo has announced plans for a live-action film adaptation of The Legend of Zelda, one of its most celebrated franchises.

So, what do we know about the so-called Switch 2? At this point, details are scarce as Nintendo remains tight-lipped about its future plans. The gaming community, however, is abuzz with speculation about a potential fall 2024 release, aligning with the expected launch of the PS5 Pro.

Sources like Laptop Mag have pointed to leaks suggesting a September 24, 2024, release date for the Switch 2, codenamed “NG.” There’s also talk of a backup release date in November 2024 if the initial target proves too ambitious.

Amid various rumors and insider discussions, the consensus leans toward a fall 2024 release, although some speculate it could arrive as early as March or April 2024. This speculation is supported by insights from TechInsights and MoneyDJ, which forecast a sales boost for the upcoming console.

In terms of pricing, leaks suggest the standard Switch 2 could be priced at US$449, with a possible digital-only version at US$399, marking a significant new direction for Nintendo into the realm of digital-only consoles. Compared to the current Switch models, this pricing seems reasonable, especially if the Switch 2 features an OLED display and enhanced internal specs. However, these are still predictions at this stage.

Switch 2’s potential features and gaming innovations

Display technology is another area of speculation. Following the success of the Switch’s OLED model, there’s a possibility that the Switch 2 might also adopt OLED technology. However, rumors from sources like NateTheHate and Andy Robinson suggest a move to a larger 8-inch LCD panel as a cost-saving measure, aligning with Nintendo’s history of balancing performance with affordability.

The processor is also a point of interest. Rumors suggest the continuation of a custom Nvidia Tegra chip in the Switch 2, with Eurogamer hinting at a custom variant of Nvidia’s T234 processor. This processor, reportedly the T239, could feature an octa-core ARM A78C CPU cluster and a custom graphics unit, potentially putting the Switch 2 on par with the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 in terms of performance.

Other speculative features include the possibility of a co-processor chip for enhanced docked performance, increased onboard storage of up to 512GB, and improvements in design and ergonomics, particularly addressing the Joy-Con drift issues.

Battery life, always a critical factor in handheld gaming, is currently estimated to be between 4.5 to 9 hours for the existing Switch models. With more powerful hardware, there are high hopes for an increase in battery life for the Switch 2. Anticipated connectivity upgrades, such as Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1, are also on the horizon.

Backward compatibility is a crucial aspect of the Switch 2’s appeal, with the gaming community strongly expecting this feature, as discussed in various forums and supported by statements from Nintendo’s president.

In terms of games, there is a flurry of rumors, mainly from the tipster Zippo, predicting titles such as a new Mario game using Unreal Engine 4, a 2D Donkey Kong game, and other exciting possibilities.

While the gaming world eagerly anticipates confirmation, the details surrounding the Switch 2 remain largely speculative. However, the buzz about its potential release in 2024 continues to grow. Given the success and enduring popularity of the original Switch, it’s plausible that Nintendo might opt for an evolutionary upgrade rather than a complete overhaul of the console. This strategy would align with their history of building upon successful platforms while introducing new technologies and features.

Nintendo Switch 2 vs Steam Deck – Who will win in 2024?

As we look towards 2024, the handheld gaming landscape is poised for an exciting showdown with the anticipated release of Nintendo’s Switch 2 and Valve’s recently launched OLED Steam Deck. Both platforms promise to elevate the gaming-on-the-go experience, each with unique strengths and offerings.

The Switch 2, still shrouded in speculation, is expected to feature an OLED display similar to its predecessor, potentially up to 8 inches. This upgrade would match and potentially surpass the visual fidelity of the Steam Deck’s 7.4-inch HDR OLED display. While the Steam Deck impresses with its vivid and colorful visuals, the Switch 2’s larger screen size might offer a more immersive gaming experience.

Regarding performance, the Switch 2 might incorporate an advanced Nvidia custom Tegra processor, significantly enhancing its gaming capabilities. This upgrade could put it on par with, if not surpass, the Steam Deck’s power-efficient AMD APU processor. Moreover, the rumored addition of a co-processor in the Switch 2 for docked performance could be a game-changer, offering flexibility that the Steam Deck, despite its robust 16GB RAM and up to 1TB storage, might not match.

Battery life and portability are critical in handheld gaming, and here, the Steam Deck’s OLED model takes a slight edge with its 50Whr battery offering up to 50% more life and faster charging. However, the Switch 2’s anticipated improvements in battery life could level the playing field, maintaining Nintendo’s reputation for efficient and durable handheld devices.

How the Steam Deck OLED is a much better upgrade from its predecessors. (Source – X).

User experience is another crucial aspect. While the Steam Deck OLED has been lauded for its improved touchscreen responsiveness and enhanced haptics, the Switch 2 is expected to continue Nintendo’s tradition of user-friendly interfaces. If rumors about improved Joy-Con ergonomics materialize, it could offer a more comfortable and intuitive gaming experience.

The game library and compatibility will be a decisive factor for many. The Switch 2 is rumored to be backward compatible, providing access to a vast and beloved library of Switch titles. In contrast, the Steam Deck offers an expansive PC gaming library through Steam, appealing to a different segment of gamers who prefer PC titles.

Pricing will also play a significant role in consumer choice. The speculated pricing of the Switch 2 places it in a competitive position against the Steam Deck OLED, which starts at US$549 for the 512GB model. This pricing strategy might make the Switch 2 a more attractive option for budget-conscious gamers.

The battle between the Switch 2 and the Steam Deck OLED in 2024 will hinge on what gamers value most: the Switch 2’s potential for a larger screen, Nintendo’s exclusive game library, and user-friendly design, or the Steam Deck’s robust performance, extensive PC game library, and premium display technology. Both platforms are set to offer unique and compelling experiences, making the choice a reflection of personal gaming preferences and styles.

The post How will the Nintendo Switch 2 perform compared to the Steam Deck OLED? appeared first on Tech Wire Asia.

Nintendo estimates profit to grow to JPY65 billion (US$583.85 million) from JPY29.4 billion (US$264 million) a year prior. The outlook, however, was far below the JPY103.67 billion average of 23 analyst estimates surveyed by Thomson Reuters.

Kyoto-based Nintendo is aiming to sell 10 million Switch consoles in the current financial year, on top of 2.7 million units sold in March, the month of its global debut.

“I was relieved by a strong start of the Switch,” Nintendo president Tatsumi Kimishima said at a news briefing.

“If the 10 million target is achieved … that means the sales momentum would be close to the Wii,” Nintendo’s most successful console ever.

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Asked if the profit outlook is too low in light of the Switch sales forecast, Kimishima said it was not an easy target because the firm is stepping up marketing costs for the Switch.

The strong initial sales momentum is raising industry expectations the Switch, a hybrid home console and handheld device, could repeat the success of the Wii.

The Wii, launched in November 2006, sold about 20 million units in its first year, with lifetime sales of over 100 million units.

“Nintendo has learned a lot from its past failure,” said Hirokazu Hamamura, a director at Japanese publisher Kadokawa Dwango and a gaming expert.

He said one of the reasons behind the strong start was that unlike its predecessor Wii U, the Switch has a long list of titles made by independent studios as Nintendo has made the new console compatible with popular game engines publicly available to developers from the start.

Friday night is race night, with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe out now for Nintendo Switch!#MarioKart8AUNZ pic.twitter.com/FJK1JUfU0B

— Nintendo AU NZ (@NintendoAUNZ) April 28, 2017

Switch’s early success has also fuelled hopes for a long-term recovery in Nintendo’s earnings, sending the company’s shares about 20 percent higher since the console debut.

Robust Wii demand drove Nintendo’s operating profit to a record JPY555 billion (US$5 billion) in the year ended in March 2009, as profit from a new console typically peaks a couple years after launch when the software lineup expands.

Some analysts, however, are sceptical about the sustainability of the current sales momentum.

CLSA analyst Jay Defibaugh noted in a recent report the early popularity is being driven not by the game that most clearly demonstrates the defining characteristics of the Switch, such as the controller with a motion detection camera, “but by a game that may as well be a PlayStation or Xbox game.”

“Our point is that, unlike for the very successful Wii, many of the unique aspects of the Switch platform are not the main factors behind strong early sales, which leaves Nintendo vulnerable to the structural shortage of third-party titles, deficient online offering, and weaker graphics,” he said. – Reuters

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