The Nintendo Switch console has become the best-selling hardware platform in Nintendo’s history. It has surpassed the lifetime sales of the Nintendo DS. The console launched in March 2017 after being revealed the previous year. It followed the commercial failure of the Wii U, which sold just over 13 million units worldwide.
Nintendo introduced the Switch as a hybrid device. The system functions as both a handheld and a home console. Players can dock it to a television or use it on the go. This approach differed from traditional console strategies used by competitors.
Nintendo Switch Console Redefined Hardware Strategy
The Nintendo Switch console moved away from a focus on processing power and graphics performance. Nintendo emphasized flexibility and accessibility instead. The company targeted players who wanted multiple play options using a single device.
This strategy reduced development risk compared to launching separate handheld and home consoles. Nintendo consolidated its software development teams under one platform. This allowed first-party titles to reach a wider audience with fewer hardware limitations.
Nintendo Switch Console Software Drove Long-Term Sales
The Nintendo Switch console benefited from strong first-party software performance. Several titles sold tens of millions of copies. These included Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons launched in March 2020. Its release coincided with global COVID-19 lockdowns. Demand for the console increased significantly during this period. Supply shortages made the system difficult to purchase in many regions.
Nintendo expanded the hardware lineup over time. The Switch Lite launched as a handheld-only model. The OLED version followed in 2021 with a larger display and improved screen technology. These updates extended the console’s lifecycle.
The Switch continued strong sales into its eighth year on the market. This longevity allowed Nintendo to spread development costs over a longer period. Reports indicate the company is preparing new hardware. Early information suggests future systems may support backward compatibility with Switch games.
