In an article published by the Wall Street Journal, it is speculated that Nintendo is planning to release two new Switch models this year. These new Nintendo Switch models are said to be aiming to continue the impressive sales momentum the Switch has had since launch.
Now in its third year, Nintendo is reportedly eager to ensure the continued success of the Switch and the company itself as “80% of [Nintendo’s] total revenue [is] from Switch hardware and software sales.”
The two new Nintendo Switch models will offer players either an enhanced experience or a scaled back one. One of the new Switch models would be akin to the PS4 Pro and Xbox One X, though sources close to Nintendo say it won’t be as powerful as either console.
New Nintendo Switch
The other new Switch would be a cheaper version, designed to appeal to casual gamers. According to the WSJ, this Switch would be a successor to the 3DS.
The third year for Nintendo is crucial as one unnamed Nintendo executive is quoted in the WSJ article as saying;
Some people say sales of Nintendo’s devices usually weaken in the third year, while others say games to be released this year are stronger than ever before. I honestly don’t know how things will turn out, but I have my fingers tightly crossed.
Market forecaster Visible Alpha polled analysts who anticipate slowing sales of the Switch in the next financial year; 17.4 million sold down from 17.9 million.
The WSJ claims that tech and part suppliers for Nintendo have been discussing the two new Switches for some time. Those who have managed to have hands-on time with the machine, have claimed they’re different enough to the original not to simply be new versions with better or worse performance, the article alleges.
Why Not Both?
While price points for the new models couldn’t be learned, WSJ reports that the cheaper version will be made that way by removing some features and functions. This includes the expensive 3D rumble included in the Switch Joy-Cons.
The article also reports that suppliers and third-party developers claim Nintendo is planning to release new editions of franchises Animal Crossing and Pokémon.
Nintendo has already announced Pokémon Sword and Shield for a late 2019 release. A new Animal Crossing has long been speculated for the Switch as well and is much desired by fans.
It’s reported that these new Switch models will be unveiled at E3 2019, though Nintendo has declined to comment. We’ll have to wait and see, though at this stage it seems likely that these new Switch models are legit.
Bring on E3!
