According to sources, Nintendo is preparing to release its next Switch platform in the second half of 2024. Sources claim that the console will retain its portable playability, but will feature an LCD screen rather than an OLED display to cut costs. Development kits have already been given to third-party developers.
Q) How think about the 98m versus next console?
A) Into 6th year of Switch and we are maintaining momentum, we are looking at how to expand and grow this 100m users, leading into next gen device (sounds like next device will be backward compatible!) 7/
— David Gibson (@gibbogame) February 3, 2022
The company wants to avoid the kind of stock shortages that plagued the debuts of the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. Although details of the new system are still scarce, it is expected to continue to use physical media in the form of cartridges and to operate in portable mode, making it perfect for gaming on the move.
Backward compatibility is still up for debate, with “some” third-party publishers concerned about how it might affect their ability to resell older games on the new hardware. Although backward compatibility is possible, Nintendo is keen to migrate its large Switch install base to the upcoming system.
According to rumors from Nintendo’s component suppliers, the next-generation Switch could be released in 2024, as the company works to extend the life of its successful console. Despite a brief dip in Switch sales, Nintendo intends to offer new titles, such as a Mario sidescroller, in the run-up to Christmas 2024.
The company is expecting high demand for the new system and is taking steps to ensure enough stock at launch to avoid the problems plaguing previous console releases. This release coincides with the successful mid-cycle launches that Nintendo has made, such as the first Switch.
Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa has expressed a desire for a seamless transition from the Switch to the next system, and backwards compatibility may be essential to achieving this goal. Offering compatibility with older titles is likely to be well-received by gamers as the Switch ages.
Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa says they plan to make a smooth transition for customers from Nintendo Switch to the next-generation console by using the Nintendo Account!
– There are currently 290 million Nintendo Accounts across console & mobile.https://t.co/Y9O8vmeySz pic.twitter.com/OrIYQ1K5XU
— Genki✨ (@Genki_JPN) June 27, 2023
Despite the lack of concrete information about the new console’s capabilities, Nintendo is aware of the appeal of easily portable systems with top-notch games. Players desire such devices, so keeping the LCD screen would make sense for budget-conscious gamers who still like their Switch systems.
Gaming enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the next-generation Switch as Nintendo continues to improve and perfect its hardware lineup. The release of this console is eagerly awaited by fans around the world due to the company’s history of innovation and the expectation of more powerful hardware with better graphics and battery life.
