Nintendo Switch 2 Sales Forecast Slashed Amid Trump's Tariff Impact

Nintendo’s highly anticipated Switch 2 console is facing early turbulence — not from the gaming competition, but from political and economic uncertainty tied to U.S. President Donald Trump’s new tariffs. Independent research firm DFC Intelligence has cut its global sales forecast for the Switch 2 from 17 million units to 15 million for 2025, citing concerns over the 46% tariff on imports from Vietnam, where a majority of the consoles are manufactured.

Tariffs Force Nintendo to Delay Preorders in the U.S.

Last week, Nintendo postponed preorders indefinitely in the United States following Trump’s tariff announcement. The delay underscores a growing hesitation among tech companies reliant on Southeast Asian manufacturing. Vietnam, which had become Nintendo’s key manufacturing hub after moving operations from China during Trump’s previous trade war, is now subject to the same steep duties.

Nintendo stated the Switch 2 will still launch globally on June 5 at a price of $450 (approx. ₹38,980). However, with the U.S. facing the highest tariff burden, analysts warn of possible price hikes, regional shortages, or even a staggered launch depending on how negotiations unfold.

DFC: Tariffs Could Impact Early Adoption Rates

While DFC Intelligence still believes the Switch 2 could become the fastest-selling console ever, it emphasized that price sensitivity plays a significant role in the gaming market.

“If prices increase substantially due to tariffs, a significant portion of prospective buyers are likely to hold back on a purchase until prices come down,” the firm noted.

Nintendo’s U.S. pricing and preorder strategies are under review, with contingency plans likely hinging on Vietnam’s diplomatic outreach, which has already offered to lift tariffs on U.S. goods in an attempt to ease tensions.

Nintendo Stock and Market Reaction

The impact of the revised forecast was felt immediately on global markets. Nintendo’s shares dropped 4.3% on the Tokyo Stock Exchange on Wednesday morning, while Japan’s Nikkei 225 Index fell 4% overall, indicating broader concern over U.S. trade policy’s ripple effects across Asia’s tech sector.

What’s New in Switch 2?

Despite external hurdles, the Nintendo Switch 2 has generated significant excitement. Key features include:

• Larger, high-resolution display

• More powerful hardware for seamless next-gen gameplay

• Improved battery life

• Backward compatibility with original Switch titles

Flagship games launching with the console include a new Mario Kart and a Metroid sequel, both exclusive to the Switch 2 platform.

What’s Next?

Industry watchers will closely monitor Nintendo’s pricing strategy in the U.S. market and whether Vietnam’s tariff olive branch changes Trump’s current trade stance. For now, global fans of the Japanese gaming giant remain cautiously optimistic that geopolitical friction won’t derail the company’s most ambitious launch to date.