Switch 2 Outsells PS4, Sets New US Sales Record
▼ Summary
– Nintendo’s Switch 2 became the fastest-selling video game hardware in US history, selling 1.6 million units in its launch month, surpassing the PS4’s previous record of 1.1 million.
– The Switch 2 was the top-selling console in June by both unit and dollar sales, with 82% of buyers also purchasing the launch title *Mario Kart World*.
– Despite US tariff-related delays and price hikes on accessories, the Switch 2’s launch boosted overall gaming market spending, setting new records for hardware ($978 million) and accessories ($293 million).
– Analyst Mat Piscatella noted that strong launch sales reflect Nintendo’s confidence in supply but don’t guarantee long-term success, citing examples like the PS2’s modest launch but lifetime dominance.
– The Switch 2 also became Nintendo’s fastest-selling hardware globally, moving 3.5 million units in its first four days despite criticism over its high cost and accessory prices.
Nintendo’s latest console has shattered sales records in the US, surpassing even the PlayStation 4’s historic launch performance. The Switch 2 moved an impressive 1.6 million units during its first month on American shelves, according to industry tracking firm Circana. This figure comfortably eclipses Sony’s previous record of 1.1 million PS4 consoles sold during November 2013.
The hybrid gaming system dominated June’s sales charts across both unit volume and revenue. An overwhelming 82% of US buyers opted for the bundled Mario Kart World edition or purchased the racing title separately, demonstrating the enduring appeal of Nintendo’s flagship franchises. These strong numbers materialized despite logistical challenges, including delayed pre-orders and tariff-related price adjustments affecting accessories.
The console’s arrival sparked unprecedented spending across the gaming sector. Hardware expenditures skyrocketed 249% year-over-year to $978 million, obliterating the previous June high of $608 million set in 2008. Accessories followed suit with $293 million in sales, topping 2021’s $247 million benchmark.
Industry analyst Mat Piscatella offered measured perspective on these explosive figures. While acknowledging the Switch 2’s record-breaking start, he cautioned against extrapolating long-term success from launch momentum. “History shows some systems with modest debuts achieved phenomenal lifetime sales,” Piscatella noted, citing the PlayStation 2’s relatively modest 400,000-unit launch month before becoming the best-selling console ever.
The analyst emphasized that initial sales primarily reflect manufacturing confidence and supply chain efficiency rather than sustained demand. Still, with 3.5 million global units sold in its first four days, despite premium pricing concerns, Nintendo’s newest offering has certainly positioned itself as the hardware to watch this generation.
(Source: EuroGamer)
