Nintendo Switch 2 – Smaller Developers Are Still Waiting to Get Their Development Kits

In its latest Nintendo Direct presentation, they unveiled that the new Switch console will enjoy robust backing from third-party developers, showcasing an abundance of third-party games set for release on the platform. However, according to a recent report by The Game Business, it seems that several studios are yet to receive development kits for the Switch 2.

According to the report, Nintendo’s main strategy was to work with larger publishers and developers, even among indie studios, to demonstrate strong third-party support for the Switch 2. Unfortunately, this approach has resulted in smaller developers being overlooked. Some studios have expressed frustration due to Nintendo’s slow response times when they reach out.

As an enthusiast eagerly anticipating the next wave of gaming, I couldn’t wait to dive into new console experiences, which is why our AA development studio co-founder reached out to The Game Business – hoping to secure early dev kits. Now, Nintendo has acknowledged us, but it seems we may have to exercise patience for a few more months before getting our hands on the hardware.

Based on the findings of the report, developers are thrilled about the prospect of creating games for a new primary platform – the Switch 2. However, they remain uncertain whether this move will lead to an uptick in game sales. This uncertainty stems from the fact that the Switch 2 is equipped with backwards compatibility for games initially launched on the original Switch.

According to research conducted by data firm Ampere, it’s been observed that third-party games have performed exceptionally well on the original Switch. In fact, games like Minecraft and Hogwarts Legacy have even matched sales figures of Nintendo’s own popular first-party games such as Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate in the US eShop. Interestingly, out of the top 20 best-selling games on the US eShop, 10 were Nintendo’s first-party titles. The remaining positions were filled by a variety of AAA and indie games developed or published by third-party companies.

According to video game expert Matthew Ball, on an average console system, out of every ten software titles purchased, only one is developed by the platform itself. Interestingly, for Nintendo, approximately six out of every ten games are created internally.

Ball points out that one key aspect of Nintendo’s power as a platform lies in the high-quality output of its first-party games. Series such as The Legend of Zelda and Mario have often been top picks within their respective genres. Interestingly, this is frequently why consumers choose to purchase a Nintendo console, even if they are primarily interested in a handheld gaming device.

According to Ball’s explanation, people primarily purchase the Nintendo Switch because it offers some of the greatest video game titles available exclusively on this device, and its price point is attractive. It isn’t certain if more individuals are seeking a portable gaming device or aiming for multi-platform or cross-platform gaming experiences, but the Switch seems to be the preferred choice for many in such scenarios.

Considering that Nintendo Switch 2 can run most third-party games adequately, this presents a vast, untapped market for publishers – a colossal blue ocean opportunity. In the past eight years, many of the world’s most popular titles have not been playable on the Nintendo Switch. This means that a significant number of high-spending, highly engaged, and young consumers – who are crucial for building a brand over their lifetime – have been out of reach. Therefore, this represents a substantial chance for publishers to expand their market. However, it’s essential to note that this opportunity will be accessible to all publishers, making the platform a new battleground for competition.

On June 5th, you’ll find the Nintendo Switch 2 in stores. It will debut with numerous day-one games like “Mario Kart World” and the “Ultimate Edition” of “Cyberpunk 2077” available on launch day.

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2025-04-04 14:41