As Nintendo releases the Switch 2 today, the original Nintendo Switch is embarking on its lap of honor before it will ultimately be retired as one of the greatest successes in gaming history. Depending on how long Nintendo decides to keep the Switch around as a low-cost, entry-level alternative to the new Switch 2, the revolutionary hybrid device may even pass Sony’s PlayStation 2 as the best-selling console of all time.
With 152 million units sold as of March 31 and Nintendo predicting another 4.5 million units sold in the current fiscal year, the Switch would be within touching distance of the PS2’s record of 160 million sold units by the end of March 2026. Given that the Switch is unlikely to cannibalize sales of the Switch 2 in a significant way, it would be a surprise if Nintendo didn’t keep the original around for another year to pass the 160 million milestone that would put it on top of the video game hall of fame.
