Switch 2 Predicted as the Best Selling Next-Gen Console Despite Not Even Being Out Yet

Despite not yet being released, DFC Intelligence, a video game market research firm, projects Nintendo's Switch 2 to be the best-selling next-gen console. Their 2024 Video Game Market Report and Forecast, released December 17th, predicts sales exceeding 15-17 million units in 2025 and over 80 million by 2028.

This forecast positions Nintendo as the console market leader, surpassing Microsoft and Sony. The Switch 2's anticipated 2025 release and limited initial competition contribute significantly to this projection. DFC Intelligence suggests Nintendo might face manufacturing challenges due to high demand.

While Sony and Microsoft are reportedly developing handheld consoles, these remain largely conceptual. DFC Intelligence anticipates new consoles from these companies by 2028. However, the three-year head start for the Switch 2 (barring unexpected releases) suggests continued dominance. The report suggests only one post-Switch 2 console will achieve significant success, potentially a hypothetical "PS6," leveraging PlayStation's established fanbase and strong intellectual properties.

The Switch's enduring popularity is undeniable, surpassing PlayStation 2 lifetime US sales with 46.6 million units sold, placing it second only to the Nintendo DS in all-time US sales, according to Circana (formerly NPD). This achievement is notable despite a reported 3% year-over-year sales decline.

DFC Intelligence's report paints a positive outlook for the video game industry, forecasting healthy growth through the end of the decade after a two-year slump. 2025 is expected to be a particularly strong year, boosted by the Switch 2 and the release of Grand Theft Auto VI. The global gaming audience is projected to exceed 4 billion players by 2027, driven by the accessibility of handheld gaming, esports, and the influence of gaming personalities. Hardware sales, both PC and console, are also on the rise.