Nintendo Switch 2 Attracts Overwhelming Number of Original Switch Owners

Nintendo's latest console, the Switch 2, has achieved remarkable success in its initial sales period, exceeding the company's projections. A notable aspect of this achievement is the strong loyalty demonstrated by its user base, with a substantial 84% of new Switch 2 owners upgrading from the original Switch. This rapid adoption has positioned the Switch 2 as Nintendo's quickest-selling hardware launch, signifying a smooth and effective transition strategy for the gaming giant. This pattern of upgrades confirms the enduring appeal and interconnectedness of the Switch ecosystem.

According to Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa, the Switch 2 has sold over 10.36 million units by September 30, 2025, quickly becoming the company's fastest-selling gaming hardware. This impressive debut has, however, led to a downturn in sales for the original Switch, prompting Nintendo to revise its sales forecasts for the older model. The overwhelming number of previous Switch owners upgrading to the new system highlights the effectiveness of Nintendo's efforts to retain its audience across generations of consoles.

Furukawa emphasized that this migration encompasses not only early adopters of the original Switch but also those who joined the platform at various points throughout its lifecycle. This broad transition illustrates the widespread appeal of the new console to Nintendo's established player base. The company's internal data reveals that a mere 16% of Switch 2 buyers are entirely new to the Switch platform, underscoring the success of their existing user retention strategy.

Despite the strong uptake of the Switch 2, the original Switch continues to boast an impressive installed base, having sold more than 154 million units globally. This vast number suggests that there is still a considerable segment of original Switch users who have yet to make the jump to the newer model. It is anticipated that many of these players will eventually transition to the Switch 2 at a later stage, further extending the new console's sales momentum and reinforcing Nintendo's long-term engagement with its player community.

The successful transition of a large segment of its existing player base to the new Switch 2 underscores Nintendo's ability to cultivate strong loyalty and ensure continuity across its hardware generations. This strategy of seamless upgrades not only boosts sales but also reinforces the strong relationship the company maintains with its dedicated fan base, ensuring sustained engagement and a thriving gaming ecosystem for years to come.