Letter from Nikkei Asia's editor: Nintendo's Switch 2 is out -- now the game is getting one

Nikkei Asia

06-06-2025

Hello from Tokyo. Nintendo released its new game console, the Nintendo Switch 2, on Thursday. However, due to supply constraints and a strict and complex lottery-based sales system, eager fans may have to wait quite a while before getting their hands on the device. Our news editor, who once covered Nintendo as a reporter, shared his disappointment after failing to win the lottery on Wednesday.
The Switch 2 faces two major challenges. The first is whether Nintendo can ramp up supply in time for the holiday shopping season, amid global disruptions linked to Trump-era tariffs. The second, longer-term challenge is whether the company can break its cycle of hit-and-miss consoles following the massive success of the current Switch.
Headquartered in Kyoto, Nintendo stands out among Japanese tech companies. It entered the game console market over 40 years ago, following the success of its portable Game & Watch device, which used display technology originally developed for calculators. Even as tech giants like Sony and Microsoft entered the gaming industry, Nintendo has managed to maintain its market share. In recent years, it has held its ground against the rise of smartphone and PC gaming.
Nintendo has two key strengths. The first is its hardware development philosophy, known as "lateral thinking with withered technology." Just as it once adapted calculator-based tech for gaming, Nintendo has consistently introduced new forms of entertainment by creatively combining widely available, mature technologies. The second strength lies in its roster of game characters, developed over more than 40 years. With franchises like Mario and Zelda, it offers games beloved by players of all ages.
Will the Switch 2 make it onto your gift list in time for the holiday season? Please stay tuned to Nikkei Asia for the latest updates.
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Through the lens
This week's top photo pick: South Korea's new President Lee Jae-myung forms a heart shape with his arms as he greets supporters after his inauguration in Seoul on June 4. (Photo by Lee Jin-man/Pool/Reuters)
Check out more of our photo coverage here
Wishing you a wonderful weekend!