The Nintendo Switch, the third-best-selling video game console of all time, isn’t getting a price cut anytime soon despite the expectations and hopes of many.
Here’s what company president, Shuntaro Furukawa, said about the price of the Switch console:
Currently, there are no plans to reduce the price of our hardware during this fiscal year. On the other hand, while we also have no plans to raise prices, the yen continues to be weak, and procurement costs remain high, so we will continue to monitor the situation carefully.
TLDR; the Nintendo Switch’s pricing will likely remain as is until April 2024.
The Nintendo Switch has captured the hearts of millions since its launch in 2017, gaining a solid reputation among gamers for its hybrid design and remarkable library of games. However, its price has remained largely unchanged since its release. This fact has surprised many, considering that most consoles drop in price as they age. But, you can’t blame Nintendo for not budging. The Switch is still a strong and valuable product that continues to deliver high-quality gaming experiences to users.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, which is reportedly the “last” AAA game for the Switch, is historically good and is the frontrunner for this year’s GOTY award.
Given Nintendo’s plans to continue manufacturing more Switch units for the foreseeable future, don’t expect Nintendo’s stance to change possibly even well into the next fiscal year.
Nintendo’s focus appears to be on delivering value and excellent gaming experiences rather than dropping the price point of their top-selling console.
The good news is that Nintendo isn’t following the $70 trend. Tears of the Kingdom remains the first and only big Nintendo game so far that has a $70 price tag. The rest aren’t expected to sell for as much yet. This brings relief to those who feared that the escalating costs for new games will extend to the Switch permanently, especially in light of the recent revelation.
So, if you’re hoping for a cheaper Nintendo Switch, don’t hold your breath.
Nintendo’s strategy is evidently to keep the console’s price consistent, focusing on the quality of the gaming experience it offers. While this is certainly disappointing, it also speaks volumes about the enduring appeal and value of the Switch. It will also encourage Nintendo to squeeze more performance out of the Switch and find ways to make better games without immediately resorting to making them prettier.
Of course, Nintendo’s plans could change following the release of the ASUS ROG Ally. Although the new handheld console might be a contender to the Steam Deck, it might persuade interested first-time Switch owners to go with a Windows-based gaming handheld instead given its strong price point.
