Nintendo is carefully evaluating several key factors as it determines the price of the upcoming Switch 2 console. While industry analysts have speculated that the Switch 2 could be priced at $400 upon its anticipated release later this year, Nintendo has not yet disclosed the official price.
In a recent Q&A session aimed at investors, Nintendo's president, Shuntaro Furukawa, addressed the potential pricing of the Switch 2. He highlighted the impact of inflation and shifts in exchange rates since the launch of the original Nintendo Switch in 2017. "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 stated.
Furukawa emphasized the importance of considering consumer expectations regarding the price range for Nintendo products. "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," he added.
AnswerSee ResultsTo provide some context, the original Nintendo Switch launched at $299.99 and maintained that price for several years. With nearly eight years having passed since its debut, it's crucial to assess current consumer expectations for Nintendo products, especially considering that competitors like Sony and Microsoft have raised the prices of their current-generation consoles due to increased costs, inflation, and currency fluctuations.
Analysts' prediction of a $400 price tag for the Switch 2 seems plausible, marking an increase from the original Switch's $300 launch price, which Nintendo still holds outside of promotional periods. The Nintendo Switch OLED model is currently priced at $350, while the Nintendo Switch Lite comes in at $200. Although details about the Switch 2's specifications and features remain limited beyond what was briefly shown in Nintendo's reveal video, the expectation is that it will be a larger, more powerful next-generation console, justifying a potential $400 price point.
Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look
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Nintendo has scheduled a Switch 2 Direct for April 2, promising a more in-depth look at the console following its initial reveal. The teaser showcased the Switch 2's design, hinted at what could be Mario Kart 9, and suggested a new 'mouse' mode for the updated Joy-Con controllers.
Despite the excitement, numerous questions about the Switch 2 remain unanswered, including the function of a mysterious new Joy-Con button, the console's power capabilities, and the purpose of its new ports. Nintendo plans to host Switch 2 hands-on events in various cities worldwide to give fans a chance to experience the new console firsthand.
Shuntaro Furukawa also confirmed that Nintendo has no intention of altering the price of the original Switch, despite the imminent launch of the Switch 2, indicating that the pricing of the current model will remain stable.
