Reggie Fils-Aimé Reacts to Nintendo Switch 2 Lineup
▼ Summary
– Reggie Fils-Aimé expressed initial confusion about Nintendo’s Switch 2 launch lineup, noting it lacked major new titles like a 3D Mario or Zelda game.
– He believes Nintendo will never position itself as a direct competitor to PlayStation, as it’s not part of their business strategy or DNA.
– Fils-Aimé emphasized the importance of third-party developers having the tools to bring their best games to Switch 2 to attract core gamer content.
– He was surprised that Microsoft has not fully embraced Switch 2 with more software ports, especially given the potential for easy adaptations.
– Fils-Aimé acknowledged underestimating the appeal of enhanced Nintendo Switch 1 content and Nintendo Switch Online offerings in driving momentum.
Reggie Fils-Aimé, the former president of Nintendo of America, admits he was initially puzzled by the software lineup announced for the Nintendo Switch 2. Speaking with The Game Business, the industry veteran shared his candid perspective on the company’s strategy for its new console and its standing in the broader video game market.
When he first reviewed the games planned for the system’s first half-year, Fils-Aimé said he found himself scratching his head. The initial offerings include Donkey Kong Bananza, Kirby’s Air Riders, a new Hyrule Warriors title, and two cross-generation games: Metroid Prime 4 and Pokémon Legends: Z-A. While not an empty slate, this selection notably lacks the powerful one-two punch of a brand-new 3D Mario and a flagship Zelda adventure that the original Switch enjoyed early on, alongside a fresh hit like Splatoon.
He did acknowledge, however, that he had underestimated the appeal of enhanced content for the first Switch model. “Certainly, what I underestimated was the enhanced Nintendo Switch 1 content, which I think has been compelling,” Fils-Aimé reflected. He pointed to the value of the Nintendo Switch Online subscription and highlighted Donkey Kong Bananza as a significant driver for the platform’s ongoing momentum.
The former executive was more optimistic about the Switch 2’s potential to become a home for major third-party games. He stressed that for this to happen, Nintendo must provide other developers with the necessary tools to fully utilize the hardware’s capabilities. He referenced Nintendo’s own skill in optimizing massive games like Tears of the Kingdom for the original Switch’s cartridges as the standard to meet.
Fils-Aimé was clear about Nintendo’s unique market position. “Nintendo, in my opinion, will never position themselves as a direct competitor to PlayStation,” he stated. He explained that direct competition isn’t part of the company’s DNA or its business philosophy. That said, he believes Nintendo would absolutely welcome major core-gamer franchises like Assassin’s Creed or Call of Duty onto its platform, confident that a player base for those titles exists.
He expressed particular surprise at Microsoft’s current approach. Despite launching a few games like Grounded and Pentiment on the first Switch, Xbox has been quiet about its plans for the successor. “I’m surprised that Xbox has not yet fully embraced Switch 2 from a software perspective,” Fils-Aimé remarked. He expected to see more ports and a dedicated announcement from Microsoft, especially during the crucial holiday season buildup.
Following the release of Sea of Thieves and Hi-Fi Rush on PlayStation 5, many Nintendo fans are waiting for Microsoft to confirm these or other games for the Switch 2. There is also the lingering question of Microsoft’s previous commitment to bring Call of Duty to Nintendo platforms, though there is no indication it will happen with this year’s Black Ops 7.
In closing, Fils-Aimé shared that he has been enjoying his time with the Switch 2, adding with a touch of humor, “the company did not send me one for free.”
!Image of Reggie Fils-Aimé Image credit: Samantha Burkardt/Getty Images for SXSW.
(Source: IGN)
