Nintendo President: Kids Can Enjoy Our Characters Without a Switch 2
▼ Summary
– Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa defends the Switch 2’s pricing as appropriate for the gaming experience it offers.
– Furukawa suggests young children can engage with Nintendo characters through non-gaming avenues like theme parks and movies before transitioning to consoles.
– Nintendo continues to support the original Switch with new games playable on both consoles, expanding accessibility.
– Switch 2 is Nintendo’s fastest-selling hardware, selling 3.5 million units in its first four days despite its higher price.
– Third-party sales for Switch 2 remain low despite the console’s record-breaking launch, according to reports.
Nintendo’s president has addressed concerns about the affordability of the upcoming Switch 2 console, emphasizing that children can connect with beloved franchises through multiple avenues beyond gaming hardware. During a recent investor meeting, Shuntaro Furukawa acknowledged pricing considerations while highlighting the company’s broader strategy to engage younger audiences.
Furukawa explained that while the Switch 2 carries a higher price tag than previous systems, its value lies in the enhanced gaming experience it delivers. “Our focus remains on offering entertainment that justifies the investment,” he stated. Recognizing potential affordability barriers, he pointed to Nintendo’s expanding ecosystem, including theme parks, animated films, and interactive exhibits, as alternative ways for kids to interact with iconic characters like Mario and Zelda.
The company’s multimedia expansion has been deliberate, with Super Mario Bros. Movie breaking box office records and Nintendo-themed attractions drawing crowds worldwide. These initiatives serve as gateways, fostering brand loyalty that may eventually translate into console purchases. Furukawa noted, “Exposing children to our IPs through diverse experiences increases the likelihood they’ll transition to our gaming platforms later.”
Despite the new console’s launch, Nintendo isn’t abandoning the original Switch. Furukawa confirmed ongoing game development for the older system, ensuring a seamless library across both devices. “The Switch’s longevity means even late adopters can explore its extensive catalog on the upgraded hardware,” he added, referencing how the platform has grown alongside its audience, from elementary schoolers to teens.
Early sales figures suggest strong demand, with 3.5 million units sold in just four days, making it Nintendo’s fastest-selling hardware to date. However, reports indicate third-party game sales haven’t matched the console’s momentum, possibly due to limited launch titles. A recent data leak, attributed to a website testing error, briefly revealed preliminary figures, though Nintendo clarified these weren’t official.
As the gaming giant balances premium pricing with accessibility, its multi-pronged approach, leveraging entertainment beyond consoles, aims to keep fans engaged at every age and stage. The strategy underscores a key truth: Nintendo’s characters have outgrown their pixelated origins, becoming cultural touchstones with or without a controller in hand.
(Source: EuroGamer)
