Switch 2 Predicted as the Best Selling Next-Gen Console Despite Not Even Being Out Yet

Nintendo Switch 2 Projected as Top-Selling Next-Gen Console

Market research firm DFC Intelligence forecasts robust sales for the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, estimating 15-17 million units sold in its first year, surpassing all competitors. This prediction, detailed in their 2024 Video Game Market Report and Forecast (released December 17th), positions Nintendo as the console market leader.

Dominating the Market: 80 Million Units by 2028

DFC Intelligence labels the Switch 2 the "clear winner" in the next-gen console race. This projection stems from the Switch 2's anticipated 2025 release, giving it a significant head start over competitors Microsoft and Sony. The report projects sales of "15-17 million units in 2025 and over 80 million units by 2028," suggesting potential manufacturing challenges for Nintendo to meet demand.

While Sony and Microsoft are reportedly developing handheld consoles, these remain in early stages. DFC Intelligence anticipates new consoles from these companies by 2028, leaving a considerable window for the Switch 2's dominance. The report suggests only one of these post-Switch 2 consoles will achieve significant success, possibly a hypothetical "PS6," leveraging PlayStation's established fanbase and strong intellectual properties.

The Switch's ongoing success is undeniable, surpassing PlayStation 2 lifetime US sales with 46.6 million units sold, placing it second only to the Nintendo DS in all-time US sales, according to Circana (formerly NPD). This achievement is notable despite a reported 3% year-over-year sales decline.

Industry Growth on the Horizon

DFC Intelligence's report paints a positive outlook for the video game industry, projecting healthy growth through the end of the decade after a two-year slump. 2025 is anticipated as a particularly strong year, driven by new releases like the Switch 2 and Grand Theft Auto VI. The global gaming audience is projected to exceed 4 billion players by 2027, fueled by the rising popularity of portable gaming and the growth of esports and gaming influencers. This increased accessibility and engagement are expected to boost hardware sales across PC and consoles.