Nintendo Switch 2 Sees Surging Demand with 2.2 Million Lottery Applications in Japan

Nintendo has revealed that over 2.2 million people have entered a lottery for the new Switch 2 console in Japan, signaling overwhelming demand ahead of its June 5 launch. The company admitted it cannot fulfill all orders initially, as supply falls short of expectations despite ramped-up production.

The Switch 2, Nintendo’s powerful successor to the original 2017 model, boasts improved graphics and a larger screen. It is priced at 49,980 yen ($349.19) for the Japanese version and 69,980 yen for the international edition. In the U.S., pre-orders were temporarily paused due to trade tensions with China, but the company has confirmed the console will retail at $449.99.

Shares of Nintendo (TYO: 7974) surged 5% on the Tokyo Stock Exchange following the announcement. Industry analysts predict the device will be sold out at launch and remain in short supply for months. “The number is way beyond expectations,” said Serkan Toto of Kantan Games, noting the potential for a record-breaking hardware cycle.

Atul Goyal of Jefferies echoed this sentiment, stating in a client note that Switch 2 demand will “far exceed initial supply” and could signal the beginning of a “super-cycle” for Nintendo’s hardware sales. The original Switch has sold more than 150 million units worldwide since launch.

Nintendo, which made about 20% of its revenue in Japan as of March 2024, continues to benefit from strong brand loyalty in its home market, where it began as a playing card company. The Switch 2's strong early response highlights consumer appetite for next-gen gaming and positions Nintendo for another blockbuster release cycle.