Nintendo is currently evaluating several factors as it decides on the pricing for the upcoming Switch 2 console. While industry analysts have speculated that the Switch 2 might launch at around $400 later this year, Nintendo has not yet made an official announcement regarding its price.
In a recent investor-focused Q&A, Shuntaro Furukawa, the president of Nintendo, addressed concerns about the pricing strategy for the Switch 2. He emphasized the impact of inflation and the significant changes in exchange rates since the original Nintendo Switch was launched in 2017. Furukawa stated, "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 further highlighted the necessity of considering consumer expectations for Nintendo product pricing. He mentioned, "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 essential to consider the original Nintendo Switch's launch price, which was set at $299.99 and remained stable for several years. Now, nearly eight years later, the question arises: what price range do consumers expect for Nintendo's products? 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 $300 launch price of the original Switch, which Nintendo has maintained outside of promotional sales or bundles. The Nintendo Switch OLED model is priced at $350, while the Nintendo Switch Lite costs $200. Although details about the Switch 2's specifications and features are limited beyond Nintendo's brief reveal, the indications suggest a more powerful and advanced console, making a $400 price point seem plausible.
Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look
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Nintendo has scheduled a Switch 2 Direct event for April 2, where they plan to provide a more detailed look at the console following its initial reveal. The initial reveal showcased the Switch 2's form factor, hinted at a potential Mario Kart 9, and introduced a new 'mouse' mode for the Joy-Con controllers.
Despite the excitement, many questions about the Switch 2 remain unanswered, including the function of a new Joy-Con button, the console's power capabilities, and the purpose of its new ports. Nintendo has also announced Switch 2 hands-on events that will be held in various cities worldwide.
In the meantime, Shuntaro Furukawa confirmed that Nintendo has no plans to adjust the price of the original Switch, even with the Switch 2's launch on the horizon, indicating that the pricing for the current model will remain unchanged.
