Nintendo Cautiously Forecasts Switch 2 Sales Amid Tariff Uncertainty

Nintendo has released a "conservative" sales forecast for the highly anticipated Switch 2, influenced by ongoing uncertainties related to tariffs. In their latest financial report, the company projected sales of 15 million units for the Switch 2 and 45 million game copies for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2026. The Switch 2 is set to hit the market on June 5.

Nintendo's forecast assumes that the current U.S. tariff rates, effective from April 10, will remain unchanged throughout the fiscal year. However, they acknowledged that any alterations to these rates could impact their projections. “We will continue to monitor the situation to respond to changes in market conditions,” Nintendo stated.

Daniel Ahmad, Director of Research & Insights at Niko Partners, labeled the 15 million sales target as "conservative." In a tweet, he suggested that Nintendo is taking into account the unpredictability surrounding tariffs, pricing, and production, despite the strong pre-order momentum. Ahmad added that Nintendo might revise its forecast upwards if the tariff situation improves, but noted the current challenges and potential for increased tariffs pose significant hurdles for a successful console launch.

It's important to highlight that achieving 15 million sales in the first year would make the Switch 2 one of the most successful console launches ever, surpassing the original Switch's debut sales of 14.87 million units.

Demand for the Switch 2 appears to be exceptionally high. Following a delay caused by tariffs, pre-orders for the console began on April 24 at a set price of $449.99, and they sold out rapidly. Nintendo has also issued a caution to U.S. customers who pre-ordered through the My Nintendo Store, warning that release day delivery isn't guaranteed due to overwhelming demand.

For more detailed information on securing your Switch 2, check out IGN's Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order guide.