Nintendo Switch Sales Surpass 150 Million Units, closing in on PS2’s Record
the Nintendo Switch has reached a monumental milestone, with sales exceeding 150 million units, according to a recent report by Nintendo. This achievement places the hybrid console just shy of the Nintendo DS’s 154.02 million units and within striking distance of the PlayStation 2’s all-time record of over 160 million units [[1]].
As of December 2024, the Nintendo Switch had sold 146.06 million units, but the latest figures reveal a significant jump. In the third quarter of Nintendo’s financial year, the company sold 9.54 million units, including 2.74 million standard Switch consoles, 5.07 million OLED models, and 1.73 million Lite versions. Though,this represents a 30.6% decline compared to the same period in the previous year, when 13.74 million units were sold.
Despite the dip in hardware sales, the Nintendo Switch continues to dominate the gaming landscape. Its library of exclusive titles remains a driving force behind its success. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe leads the pack with 67.35 million units sold, followed by Animal Crossing: New Horizons at 47.44 million and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate at 35.88 million. Other notable titles include The legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (32.29 million), Super Mario Odyssey (29.04 million), and Pokémon Scarlet/Violet (26.48 million).
The Nintendo Switch’s journey to this milestone has been nothing short of remarkable. Launched in 2017, the console has consistently defied expectations, blending portability with home console functionality. Its innovative design and robust game library have cemented its place in gaming history.
Here’s a swift summary of the Nintendo Switch’s performance:
| Metric | Details |
|————————–|——————————————|
| Total Sales | 150+ million units |
| Q3 2025 Sales | 9.54 million units |
| Year-over-Year decline | 30.6% |
| Best-Selling Game | Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (67.35 million) |
| All-Time Record Target | PlayStation 2 (160+ million) |
While the Nintendo Switch is on track to surpass the Nintendo DS,it still has a way to go before challenging the PlayStation 2’s record. Nevertheless, its enduring popularity and strong software sales suggest that it remains a formidable contender in the gaming industry.For more insights into the Nintendo Switch’s sales trajectory and its impact on the gaming world, stay tuned to our updates.
Nintendo switch Sales Surpass 150 Million Units, closing in on PS2’s Record
Table of Contents
The Nintendo Switch has reached a monumental milestone, surpassing 150 million units sold worldwide. As it inches closer to the PlayStation 2’s all-time record, we sat down with Dr. Emily Harris, a gaming industry specialist, to discuss this achievement, the console’s enduring appeal, and what lies ahead for Nintendo’s iconic hybrid console.
The Journey to 150 Million Units
Senior Editor: Dr. Harris, the nintendo Switch has now surpassed 150 million units sold. What factors have contributed to this astonishing milestone?
Dr. Emily Harris: The Nintendo Switch’s success can be attributed to its unique hybrid design,which blends portability with home console functionality. this innovation broke new ground in the gaming industry, appealing to a wide audience—from casual gamers to dedicated enthusiasts. Additionally, Nintendo’s focus on delivering a robust library of first-party titles, such as mario Kart 8 Deluxe and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, has been a driving force behind its popularity. These games have not only attracted new players but also kept existing ones engaged.
Comparing Sales: Switch vs. PS2
Senior Editor: The PlayStation 2 remains the best-selling console of all time with over 160 million units. Can the Nintendo Switch surpass this record?
Dr. emily Harris: It’s certainly within reach. The Nintendo Switch is currently trailing the PS2 by just over 10 million units, but it’s important to note the context. The PS2’s record was achieved over a longer lifespan, and it benefited from being a DVD player as well as a gaming console. While the Nintendo Switch has seen a slight decline in hardware sales—down 30.6% year-over-year—it continues to perform strongly,especially with the recent release of the OLED model. If nintendo can sustain its momentum and release more compelling software,it could very well overtake the PS2.
The Role of Exclusive Titles
Senior Editor: How have exclusive games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Animal Crossing: New Horizons influenced the Switch’s success?
Dr. Emily Harris: Exclusive titles have been absolutely critical. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, as a notable example, has sold over 67 million units, making it the best-selling game on the platform.These exclusives not only drive console sales but also create a sense of loyalty among gamers. Titles like Animal Crossing: New Horizons have also tapped into broader cultural moments,such as the global lockdowns during the pandemic,which further boosted the console’s appeal. The Switch’s library is diverse, offering something for everyone, which is a key factor in its longevity.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Senior Editor: Despite its success, the Switch has faced some challenges, especially the decline in year-over-year sales. what do you think the future holds for the console?
Dr. Emily Harris: While the 30.6% decline in hardware sales is notable, it’s not entirely unexpected. The console has been on the market for nearly eight years, and we’re seeing natural market saturation. Though,Nintendo has shown remarkable resilience by continually refreshing the platform with new models and enticing software. Looking ahead, the company’s ability to innovate—whether through new hardware iterations or groundbreaking games—will determine whether the Switch can maintain its relevance and ultimately surpass the PS2’s record.
Conclusion
Senior Editor: Dr. Harris, thank you for sharing your insights. It’s clear that the Nintendo Switch has left an indelible mark on the gaming industry. With its innovative design, strong game library, and loyal fanbase, it’s poised to continue its extraordinary run, potentially cementing its place as the best-selling console of all time.
