Switch 2 Sets UK Sales Record, Yet PS5 and Xbox Series X/S Outperformed at Launch

The Nintendo Switch 2 has made history in the UK as Nintendo’s most successful console launch to date, surpassing its own previous record holder—the Nintendo 3DS. While early sales figures indicate that the Switch 2 still trails behind the launch numbers of PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S in the region according to NielsenIQ data reported by The Game Business, it marks a major milestone for Nintendo.

Though final global sales figures have yet to be officially released, early reports suggest the Switch 2 sold more than double the units of the original Switch during its UK debut in 2017, which saw over 80,000 units sold. Additionally, it comfortably outperformed the Nintendo 3DS' 2011 launch total of 113,000 units in the UK, likely reaching well beyond that benchmark.

One key factor contributing to this success is Nintendo’s improved supply chain management. Unlike the original Switch and earlier consoles like the Wii, where hardware shortages led to extended customer wait times, the Switch 2 was widely available at launch, allowing more consumers to purchase units quickly.

Why It Still Trails PlayStation and Xbox

Despite the impressive performance, the Switch 2 hasn't managed to outsell the PS4, PS5, or Xbox Series X/S in the UK. This can largely be attributed to the country's historically strong presence of Sony and Microsoft platforms. The UK market is known for high multi-platform ownership, resulting in a more fragmented market share compared to regions like Japan, where Nintendo dominates, or other territories where PlayStation holds a stronger lead over Xbox.

Pricing and Launch Bundle

In the UK, the Nintendo Switch 2 launched at a premium price point—£395.99 without Mario Kart World, and £429.99 when bundled with the game. While some may see this as a barrier to entry, the attach rate for Mario Kart World reportedly exceeded 95%, suggesting most buyers opted for the bundle, reinforcing the game’s role as a powerful launch title.

Global Forecast and Market Reception

Nintendo has projected 15 million global Switch 2 console sales and 45 million game sales for the current fiscal year ending March 31, 2026. Some industry analysts believe these targets are conservative, especially considering early momentum and enthusiasm from fans. Nintendo aims to match the launch success of the original Switch, but early indicators suggest it could potentially exceed those expectations.

Unverified French market data shared by Wccftech and sourced from insider leaks indicated that the Switch 2 sold approximately 200,000 units at launch—double the PS5's initial sales record in the same region. This further supports the notion that the Switch 2 is off to a blistering start globally.

If you're new to Mario Kart World, you might want to check out how to unlock Mirror Mode, including tips on activating it in Free Roam using a clever Super Mario 64-inspired trick to enhance your racing experience.