Massive Nintendo Switch 2 Shipment Fuels Early Release Speculation | Image Source: gonintendo.com
March 13, 2025 - As the anticipation of the next Switch 2 is being built, recent reports suggest that the game giant has already sent a significant number of units to North America, indicating a possible early release. According to the user of Famiboards LiC, who followed the shipments, a Vietnamese manufacturer named HVBG has already sent over 383,000 Switch 2 units to the United States and Canada. These shipments reportedly arrived in January 2025, months before the planned launch of the console.
A Nintendo 2 Units Has the storage switch started yet?
The discovery of these shipments raises a crucial question: is Nintendo preparing for a rejection earlier than expected? Although the company confirmed that Switch 2 will start in 2025, it did not provide an exact launch date. However, if nearly 400,000 units have already landed in North America, this suggests that Nintendo could aim for a release in early summer rather than a last-minute release.
The LiC survey, which includes tracking cartons and manual instructions, indicates that these units are not only prototypes or test samples, but complete sales units. In addition, it was reported that another 41,598 load restraint units had been sent with the consoles, which reinforced the likelihood that Nintendo would prepare for a short-term launch.
What does this mean for Nintendo’s sales strategy?
Historically, Nintendo has adopted a strategic approach by launching new consoles, ensuring sufficient stock to meet the initial demand. The original Nintendo Switch, for example, was revealed in January 2017 and released only two months later in March. If Nintendo follows a similar strategy, a May or June version for Switch 2 seems plausible.
In addition, industry experts suggest that Nintendo targets about 6 million units for the first quarter of Switch 2 availability, with projections reaching 20 million in its first year. This means that the initial shipment of 383,000 units can only be the tip of the iceberg, with large waves of stocks expected to arrive before launch.
Will it be difficult to find switch 2 on launch?
One of the biggest concerns about launching Switch 2 is availability. The gaming industry has experienced a widespread shortage of new equipment in recent years, with automated climbers and buying robots that make it difficult for regular consumers to secure a console at retail prices.
Nintendo acknowledged this issue, although it did not reveal any specific measures to counter the escalation. However, if the company stores units well in advance, it can take a proactive approach to ensuring a smoother launch.
With orders expected soon, the level of preparation of Nintendo’s supply chain will be clearer. If other shipments continue to reach a steady pace, it may indicate that Switch 2 will have a healthier delivery in launch than its predecessor.
When will we be officially confirmed?
Fans won’t have to wait much longer for official details. Nintendo has scheduled a dedicated presentation of Switch 2 Direct for April 2, 2025, at 18:00 pT / 9:00 am ET. This event should reveal key information, including physical specifications, launch titles and, above all, a launch date.
Industry stakeholders believe that Nintendo’s decision to send units month in advance suggests a high level of confidence in the new system. In addition, reports indicate that NVIDIA, which provides key components for Switch 2, was surprised by the time Nintendo delayed launch, as well as encouraging speculation that the console is ready for mass distribution.
Will interruption 2 begin earlier than expected?
Given Nintendo’s history and the evidence that indicates early shipments, it is reasonable to expect a release later. Although some analysts still believe that the company can be maintained until the holiday season, a summer release is well aligned with past trends and logistical preparations.
Taking previous versions, Nintendo has generally revealed a new material with a short delay before release. For example, the original Switch was fully announced in January 2017 and hit the shelves for March. If Nintendo follows a similar schedule, it seems more and more likely that a 2025 version for Switch 2.
Finally, the next Nintendo Direct will provide the final answers, but with nearly 400,000 units already in North America, the chances of an imminent launch seem stronger than ever.
