TOKYO—The gaming world is buzzing as Nintendo’s highly anticipated successor to the Switch appears poised to make history in Japan. Industry insiders and retailers report that the Nintendo Switch 2, slated for release later this year, has already secured over 1.2 million units in its day-one shipment for the Japanese market alone—a figure that could demolish the country’s previous console launch records.
According to a recent report by NintendoSoup, Nintendo’s aggressive supply strategy aims to avoid the stock shortages that plagued the original Switch’s 2017 launch. Analysts suggest this massive shipment reflects confidence in demand, with pre-orders reportedly “flying off virtual shelves” within minutes of going live. “Nintendo learned from past mistakes,” said a source close to the company. “They’re determined to meet fan enthusiasm head-on.”
The hype isn’t limited to numbers. Japanese gaming YouTube channel レウンGameTV shared an exclusive preview of the console’s hardware upgrades, including enhanced processing power and backward compatibility with existing Switch games. The video breakdown has racked up over 2 million views in 48 hours, with fans praising the sleek redesign and rumored 4K OLED display.
Retailers, however, are bracing for chaos. Major electronics chains like Yodobashi Camera and Bic Camera have already implemented a lottery system for pre-orders due to overwhelming demand. As detailed by GSMGoTech, customers must now enter randomized draws for a chance to purchase the console—a tactic last seen during the PlayStation 5’s launch. “It’s like trying to win concert tickets,” said one Tokyo-based gamer. “I’ve entered five lotteries and still haven’t secured one.”
Nintendo’s bold move comes amid fierce competition from Sony and Microsoft, but the Switch 2’s hybrid handheld-home console design continues to resonate in Japan. The original Switch remains the country’s best-selling console of all time, with over 32 million units sold. If the Switch 2’s launch meets projections, it could surpass the PS5’s Japanese debut of 118,000 units in under 48 hours—by a factor of ten.
With the global gaming market watching closely, all eyes are on Nintendo to deliver a flawless rollout. Will the Switch 2 cement its place in gaming history? For now, one thing is clear: Japan is ready to hit the ground running.
For ongoing updates, follow the official launch tracker here and retailer pre-order details here.
Nintendo Switch 2 Day One Shipment In Japan Estimated To Be Over 1.2 Million Units https://t.co/VpShKXQgUt
— NintendoSoup (@ninsoup) May 24, 2025
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