Nintendo’s Switch console may be reaching the end of its reign as the company’s flagship hardware, as rumors of a successor continue to circulate. Reports suggest that an upgraded device could be launching as early as 2024. However, Nintendo is determined to make 2023 a standout year for the Switch with a strong lineup of games.
One of the highlights of this year’s releases is the highly anticipated new mainline Zelda game, “Tears of the Kingdom,” and a classic Mario title called “Super Mario Bros. Wonder.” It’s worth noting that the last time Nintendo released major installments of both Zelda and Mario in the same year was 2017, coinciding with the Switch’s debut. Both games went on to become huge successes, selling over 50 million copies combined. “Tears of the Kingdom” in particular showcases the Switch’s capabilities with its impressive open world and mind-bending physics.
“Super Mario Bros. Wonder” stands out as well, featuring a surprisingly large production considering its 2D side-scrolling format. The game was built on a new engine, and Nintendo gave the development team ample time and budget to focus on creating a high-quality experience. According to Takashi Tezuka, a longtime Mario developer, the goal was to offer players a game with much more depth and enjoyment.
2023 is proving to be a robust year for the Switch, with a diverse lineup of games including “Pikmin 4,” modern updates to “Advance Wars” and “Metroid Prime,” new “Bayonetta” and “Fire Emblem” games, several “Pokémon” releases, experimental titles like “F-Zero 99,” and upcoming games such as “WarioWare: Move It!” and “Super Mario RPG.” Nintendo has also expanded its horizons beyond games, positioning itself as a more traditional entertainment company.
While the launch of a Switch successor next year may signal the beginning of the end for the console, it is expected to continue quietly alongside the new hardware as previous Nintendo consoles have done. In 2024, Nintendo plans to release a few first-party games, including “Princess Peach: Showtime!” and remakes of “Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door” and “Another Code.” The Switch has already proven to be a massive success, becoming the second bestselling Nintendo hardware after the original DS, with nearly 130 million units sold.
The transition to a new console holds significant importance for Nintendo, especially after the challenging period with the Wii U. The Switch successfully combined Nintendo’s console and portable businesses, carving out a niche in the market. However, following up on this success won’t be easy, as consumer expectations have evolved. Nowadays, users expect continuity in games and content when upgrading to a new console.
Continuity hasn’t always been a strong suit for Nintendo, as many fans have repurchased games for new hardware. However, maintaining the momentum of the Switch will require bridging the gap between the current console and its successor.
Nintendo is currently in a strong position with its games lineup, thanks to the company’s decade-long effort to merge its development divisions into a cohesive unit focused on the Switch. This strategy has been a key factor in the console’s success and could also contribute to the future success of Nintendo’s next console. However, history has shown that success in the gaming industry is never guaranteed, even for a hit like the Wii.
While 2023 may mark the end of the Switch era, Nintendo has the opportunity to build something even greater if it plays its cards right. The console’s high note this year could be just the beginning of a new and exciting chapter for the company.