The Nintendo Switch 2 has officially marked the strongest UK launch ever for a Nintendo console, according to a new report by The Game Business, citing data from research firm NielsenIQ. While it did not surpass the biggest all-time console launches in the UK overall, it outperformed every previous Nintendo system in its first week.
The report highlights that the Switch 2 more than doubled the launch week sales of the original Nintendo Switch, which sold slightly over 80,000 units in the UK when it launched in March 2017. That means the Switch 2 moved well beyond 160,000 units in its debut week, although the exact number has not been publicly disclosed.
Before this, the Nintendo 3DS held the top spot for a Nintendo hardware launch in the UK with 113,000 units sold during its first week in 2011. The Switch 2 has now overtaken both the original Switch and the 3DS to become Nintendo’s biggest UK debut yet.
Despite the strong performance, the Switch 2 didn’t top the UK’s all-time console launch chart. It landed in fourth place behind Sony’s PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and Microsoft’s Xbox Series consoles. Based on historical data, the PlayStation 5 is estimated to have sold over 250,000 units in the UK within its first 48 hours, and more than 450,000 units by the end of 2020.
Below is the UK’s all-time top 10 console launches by unit sales, as reported:
- PlayStation 5
- PlayStation 4
- Xbox Series
- Nintendo Switch 2
- PlayStation 3
- Xbox One
- Nintendo Wii
- Nintendo Switch
- Xbox 360
- Xbox One X
Although it did not break the all-time UK launch record, the Switch 2’s debut still represents a major success for Nintendo. Selling somewhere between 113,000 and 250,000 units in a single region is notable, particularly as the company continues to expand its reach and install base across key European markets.
In France, the console has reportedly achieved an even stronger start. According to other industry sources, Nintendo sold 200,000 units during the Switch 2’s opening weekend, making it the fastest-selling console in French history.
The launch reflects solid demand for Nintendo’s latest hardware entry, despite competition from more powerful home consoles. With global sales data still rolling in, the Nintendo Switch 2 may continue to set records in other territories. More detailed figures are expected from Nintendo in upcoming financial disclosures or regional sales reports.
