Nintendo Says It's Taking 'All Possible Measures' to Beat Switch 2 Scalpers

Nintendo is prepared to tackle potential Nintendo Switch 2 launch shortages and combat scalpers, stating, "We are making preparations." Following the release of its latest financial report, Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa addressed concerns about a repeat of the original Switch's 2017 launch shortages.

Furukawa, speaking to Nikkei and translated by VGC, confirmed, "We will take all possible measures based on the experience we have accumulated to date (regarding scalpers and the like). We are making preparations."

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These preparations likely involve significantly increased production of Switch 2 units. Nintendo previously highlighted sufficient manufacturing to meet demand as crucial in thwarting scalpers. The initial Switch launch in March 2017 experienced supply constraints, fueling scalping activities. However, Furukawa stated in July 2024 that the Switch 2 launch will be different: "As a countermeasure against resale, we believe that the most important thing is to produce a sufficient number to meet customer demand, and this idea has not changed since last year." He also added that component shortages, which impacted Switch production in previous years, are no longer a significant concern.

A Switch 2 Direct is scheduled for April 2nd, promising further details. Additionally, hands-on Switch 2 events will be held globally.

Furukawa also addressed declining Switch sales, attributing the decrease to factors other than consumer anticipation for the Switch 2. He maintained that the impact of consumers delaying purchases is minimal, stating, "We don't think the impact of refraining from purchasing is that great. We think it's a solid eighth year, but we haven't reached our target."

Nintendo plans to continue supporting the original Switch post-Switch 2 launch, "as long as there is demand." This commitment is evident with the 2025 releases of Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond on the original Switch.