Nintendo has informed game publishers that the launch of its next-generation console has been postponed to early 2025, according to sources familiar with the situation.
The highly anticipated successor to the popular Switch was initially slated for release later this year. However, several publishers have now been informed that the timeline has shifted, leading them to prepare for a launch in the following year instead. The sources, who requested anonymity due to the lack of official announcements, revealed that some executives have been advised not to expect the console before March 2025 at the earliest.
This delay means that the new console will miss the crucial holiday shopping season, which is typically considered the prime time for introducing new gaming hardware.
The current Nintendo Switch, which has been on the market for seven years, has achieved remarkable success with over 139 million units sold, featuring hit titles like two award-winning Legend of Zelda games and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, which boasts sales exceeding 60 million copies. The handheld-hybrid console has maintained interest longer than most of its competitors, and this week, Nintendo’s stock reached an all-time high as investors shifted their focus from short-term expectations to the upcoming generation. The extended wait for the new console may test the patience of fans and investors alike.
Based in Kyoto, Nintendo has a limited selection of games planned for the Switch in the coming year. Tokyo-based analyst Serkan Toto interprets this as an indication that the company is withholding its major releases for the new console.
“Nintendo is likely facing a lean game release schedule this year,” Toto stated. “It seems the company intends to reserve its blockbuster titles for the next console, which could mean that 2024 will see more remakes of classic Nintendo games. Without a new device, 2024 is likely to be more challenging for the company.”
A representative for Nintendo declined to offer any comments regarding the situation. The company has maintained a low profile concerning details about a successor to the Switch. Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa has indicated that the company plans to share insights into its strategy for the next fiscal year following the announcement of its March-quarter earnings. The news of the delay was previously reported by Video Games Chronicle.
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