Switch 2: Fastest-Selling Nintendo Console in UK, Yet PS5 and Xbox Series X/S Had Bigger Launches

The Nintendo Switch 2 has made history in the UK as the company’s most successful console launch to date, surpassing its previous record holder, the Nintendo 3DS. While early sales figures have not been fully disclosed, reports indicate that the Switch 2's launch sales were significantly higher than the 113,000 units sold by the 3DS in 2011. In fact, it is said to have more than doubled the initial sales of the original Switch, which moved over 80,000 units in the UK back in 2017.

Despite this milestone, the Switch 2 still trailed behind the launch performances of Sony and Microsoft consoles in the UK, including PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S, according to data from NielsenIQ as reported by The Game Business. Nintendo appears to have mitigated supply chain issues that plagued earlier launches like the original Switch and Wii, ensuring better availability for eager customers.

Why It Didn’t Outperform PlayStation or Xbox

One might wonder why the Switch 2 didn’t outpace the PlayStation 5, especially considering the latter’s well-documented stock shortages during its debut phase. As noted by The Game Business, the UK market has traditionally leaned toward Sony and Microsoft consoles, resulting in a more evenly distributed market share among all three platforms. This contrasts with regions like Japan, where Nintendo enjoys a dominant position, or other territories where PlayStation holds a stronger lead over Xbox.

Pricing and Accessories

Another factor potentially affecting adoption is the Switch 2’s UK price point. At £395.99 without Mario Kart World and £429.99 with the bundled game, it represents a premium investment for many consumers. The system launched alongside an array of accessories, showcased in our extensive gallery below:

Global Sales Outlook

In France, unverified sales data shared by industry insider Wccftech suggests the Switch 2 reached an impressive 200,000 units at launch—double the previous record set by the PlayStation 5. Moreover, the attach rate for Mario Kart World reportedly exceeded 95%, indicating strong consumer interest in the bundled title.

Nintendo has projected 15 million global console sales and 45 million software units for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2026. Some analysts believe this forecast is conservative, especially given the strength of the launch lineup and improved hardware availability.

If you're diving into *Mario Kart World*, don't miss the chance to unlock special features like Mirror Mode, including hidden Super Mario 64 secrets accessible through Free Roam. These extras add even more value to your gaming experience right from the start.