Nintendo Switch Lifecycle May Extend Past 5-6 Years

The lifecycle of a typical console is around 5-6 years. With a few exceptions, this has been the standard for the big three video game companies Microsoft, Nintendo, and Sony. Although Nintendo now believes that their latest addition to the console market, the Nintendo Switch, could potentially be around longer than previously expected.

During an investor Q&A, Nintendo’s Sigeru Miyamoto expressed that he believes the Nintendo Switch could be around longer due to the unprecedented hybrid nature of the console. He also feels that Nintendo’s efforts to create unique and original content for the platform could keep it on store shelves for years to come.

The Nintendo Switch Breakthrough

“When you think about what can be done with the Nintendo Switch as a device that can be taken on the go and that every person has in their hands to play, you realize it has many features not available on any other hardware to date,” Miyamoto said. “Nintendo also has a system in place whereby the software developers focus on these hardware features in their development efforts for the continuation of the Nintendo Switch business.” (http://bit.ly/2CeDsCZ)

Miyamoto went on to say “Up until now, the hardware lifecycle has trended at around five or six years, but it would be very interesting if we could prolong that life cycle, and I think you should be looking forward to that.” (http://bit.ly/2CeDsCZ)

Nintendo director Shinya Takahashi added that the company had junior level developers working closely with higher management to create a multitude of interesting products that are both fun to play and can reach a wide audience.

Nintendo Changing The Game

“Behind the unceasing stream of Nintendo Switch software releases to date is an approach to development that concentrates on development, itself the fruit of efforts several years ago to integrate the software development teams, which has made it easier to organize teams.” (http://bit.ly/2CeDsCZ)

To give some perspective, Nintendo released their previous console, the Wii U back in 2012 and ended production in January 2017. The Switch launched in March 2017 and already outsold the Wii U’s lifetime sales in a 10 month period. If Miyamoto’s beliefs hold true, the company could have the console on the market until 2023 or beyond.

As of now, some of Nintendo’s biggest IP’s already made its way to the console with plenty more on the way. The company previously stated that they want to see all of their games come to the Switch, but the biggest fans are holding out for word on a new Animal Crossing and Super Smash Bros. Hopefully, the console’s popularity doesn’t falter and the community can continue to enjoy this system for as long as Nintendo sees it is a contender.

Source:

https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2018/180210e.pdf

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