Nintendo has again downgraded its financial projections as Switch console and game sales underperformed expectations. During the first three quarters of the current fiscal year, hardware revenue dropped 31.7% year-over-year to ¥895.5 billion ($5.7 billion), with both Switch systems and software experiencing substantial declines.
Financial Performance Overview
Supplementary income streams also weakened significantly:
- Mobile and IP revenue fell 33.9% to ¥49.7 billion ($320 million)
- Total gross profit declined 27.3% to ¥565.5 billion ($3.6 billion)
Revised Forecasts and Market Position
This marks Nintendo's second consecutive downward revision for FY2025 projections:
- Switch hardware estimate reduced by 1.5 million to 11 million units
- Software forecast cut by 10 million to 150 million units
While the Switch has surpassed 150 million lifetime sales, analysts note it may not catch PlayStation 2's 160 million record. However, it could overtake Nintendo DS's 154 million milestone.
Software Highlights and Player Engagement
Recent strong performers include:
- The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom (3.91 million)
- Super Mario Party Jamboree (6.17 million)
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (5.38 million)
Notably, Super Mario Party Jamboree outpaced previous series entries' early sales. The platform maintains strong engagement with 129 million active users in 2024.
Future Outlook
Upcoming Switch titles include:
- Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition (March 20)
- Pokémon Legends: Z-A (2025)
- Metroid Prime 4: Beyond (2025)
Nintendo confirmed plans for a Switch 2 showcase on April 2, with global hands-on events to follow. The successor console remains scheduled for 2025 release.
