Nintendo Switch 2 Breaks Sales Records in Japan

Nintendo Switch 2 has made headlines by breaking the PS2’s first-month sales record in Japan. According to data reported by Yomiuri, the console sold an astounding 1.5 million units in just the first month.

This figure comes from Famitsu, which compiles data from over 3,000 retail stores across Japan. Notably, this number does not include sales directly from Nintendo, suggesting that the actual figure could be much higher. In total, the Nintendo Switch 2 clocked in at 1,538,260 units sold, marking the highest sales for any gaming console since Famitsu started collecting data back in 1996.

A Look at the Competition

The previous record was held by the Game Boy Advance, which sold 1,367,433 units in its first month, while the Nintendo DS followed with 1,269,846. Comparatively, the Switch 2 is flying off the shelves at a rate at least three times faster than the original Switch, which managed 556,633 unit sales during its launch period. Even more impressive, the PlayStation 2’s record of 1,134,862 units sold in 2000 has now been surpassed.

Globally, the Nintendo Switch 2 sold a staggering 3.5 million units in just its first four days, positioning it as the fastest-selling Nintendo system to date, and potentially the largest console launch in gaming history.

The Impact on the Gaming Landscape

Should the Switch 2 manage to surpass 15 million units sold within its first year, it will outshine the original Switch’s achievements. In a year where the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 launched, each selling around 7.5 million units, the Switch 2 stands poised for remarkable success despite market challenges, including stock issues that affected some competitors.

Released on June 5, the console launched with stellar titles like Mario Kart World and the coveted The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. Recently, fans got their hands on another major title, Donkey Kong Bananza, solidifying the Switch 2’s impressive lineup.