Nintendo is currently evaluating multiple factors in determining the price of the upcoming Switch 2. While industry analysts have speculated to IGN that the console might be priced at $400 upon its release later this year, Nintendo has not yet confirmed any pricing details.
In a recent investor-focused Q&A, Shuntaro Furukawa, the President of Nintendo, addressed concerns about pricing. He acknowledged the significant changes in inflation and exchange rates since the original Nintendo Switch was launched in 2017. "We are aware that, in addition to how inflation is currently proceeding, the exchange rate environment has also changed significantly since around the time we launched Nintendo Switch in 2017," Furukawa stated.
Furukawa emphasized the importance of understanding consumer expectations for Nintendo product pricing. "We also need to consider the price range that consumers expect for Nintendo products. We think a multifaceted consideration of these factors is needed when deciding on the price of a product. I cannot tell you a specific price for Nintendo Switch 2 at this time, but we are taking various factors into account," he added.
The original Nintendo Switch debuted at $299.99 and has maintained that price point for several years. Now, almost eight years later, it's crucial to assess what consumers anticipate in terms of pricing for Nintendo's products, especially considering that competitors like Sony and Microsoft have adjusted their console prices due to rising costs and economic shifts.
Analysts suggest that Nintendo might set the Switch 2's price at $400, which would mark an increase from the original Switch's launch price. This speculation seems reasonable given the anticipated enhancements in the Switch 2's specs and features. The Nintendo Switch OLED model is currently priced at $350, while the Nintendo Switch Lite retails for $200.
Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look
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Nintendo is planning a Switch 2 Direct event on April 2, which will provide a more detailed look at the console following its initial reveal last month. The reveal showcased the Switch 2's form factor, hinted at a new Mario Kart game, and introduced a potential 'mouse' mode for the new Joy-Con.
Despite the excitement, several questions about the Switch 2 remain unanswered, such as the function of the new Joy-Con button, the console's power, and the purpose of its new ports. Nintendo is also organizing Switch 2 hands-on events in various cities worldwide to allow fans to experience the console firsthand.
In the meantime, Furukawa confirmed that Nintendo has no plans to adjust the price of the original Switch, even with the Switch 2's impending launch, indicating that the pricing strategy for the current model will remain unchanged.
