Update, according to the journalist David Gibson, who asked to Nintendo:
"It appears that test data prepared for a web site update was unintentionally made publicly accessible. Temporarily visible data was for testing purposes only, and is not accurate and not related to any sales result or projection of Switch 2".
In an unprecedented debut, Nintendo reportedly sold 5 million units of its new Switch 2 console worldwide in just 26 days, from its launch on June 5 through June 30. This figure, briefly posted on Nintendo’s investor relations site before being removed, positions the Switch 2 as the fastest-selling console launch in gaming history.
The console’s blistering start included an astonishing 3.5 million units moved in its very first week, a pace unseen in modern console rollouts. By comparison, the PlayStation 5 sold 3.4 million units in its entire first month, underscoring how quickly Nintendo’s hybrid design has captured consumer attention.
Breaking down the regional sales, the Americas led with 1.8 million units, followed closely by Japan at 1.47 million. Europe accounted for 1.18 million sales, while the rest of the world contributed roughly 550,000 units. These numbers reflect strong demand across mature and emerging gaming markets alike.
When placed alongside past console launches, the Switch 2’s trajectory is even more remarkable. The original Nintendo Switch needed four months to reach the 5 million mark, and the PlayStation 5 took two and a half months. Nintendo’s latest hardware thus shatters legacy benchmarks almost overnight.
Industry observers caution, however, that the leaked figures may represent internal shipment forecasts rather than finalized retail sales. Nintendo’s official quarterly report, due August 1, will provide confirmed data, leaving open the question of how many of those units have truly reached end users versus retail partners.
The Switch 2 carries a higher price tag than its predecessor, approximately $450 compared to the original’s $300, reflecting hardware upgrades and premium internals. Even so, it remains competitively priced against rival consoles. Initial software costs are also rising, with flagship titles like Mario Kart World breaking the $80 barrier and accessory prices climbing by $5 to $10 post-launch, for now it seems nothing of that is a problem.
Looking ahead, Nintendo has set an ambitious goal of selling 15 million Switch 2 units by the end of its fiscal year, signaling confidence in sustained demand. With a robust release schedule that includes new first-party titles and third party partnerships, the company appears poised to maintain momentum even as the initial launch frenzy subsides.
While the Switch 2’s record breaking opening month has captured headlines, its long term success will hinge on continued software innovation, supply stability, and global economic factors. Should Nintendo navigate these challenges effectively, the console may redefine expectations for what a hybrid gaming system can achieve.
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