Article
Nintendo's Own Games Are Not What Grew 76% Last Year
Third-party software sales on Switch and Switch 2 hit $2.3 billion in 2025, up 76% from the year before. Warner Bros., not Nintendo, was the top publisher. The console everyone associates with Mario is now, by dollar volume, being carried by games Nintendo did not make.
- Published
- April 2, 2025
- Updated
- June 18, 2026
- Reading time
- 7 min
2026 updated analysis
What changed since the original article
This page keeps the original Transformidy article as the canonical record and leads with the current interpretation, source notes, and Revenue Unknown framing.
$2.3 Billion, and a Non-Nintendo Leader
That leaderboard detail is worth sitting with. Nintendo's own first-party titles, Mario Kart World reaching 14.7 million copies sold against 19.86 million consoles for a 74% attach rate, dominate most Switch 2 coverage and understandably so, given Nintendo's direct financial stake in those numbers. But the third-party leaderboard describes a parallel, separately tracked revenue stream where Nintendo is not the top performer on its own platform. Warner Bros., Bandai Namco, and EA, publishers with no obligation to prioritize Switch 2 over PlayStation or Xbox, chose to invest heavily in the platform and were rewarded with strong sales.
Community discussion around the data points to a few plausible contributing factors: previously Nintendo-unavailable ports now reaching the platform, competitive third-party pricing relative to other consoles, and Switch 2 serving as the primary or only console for players who previously lacked PlayStation or Xbox access. None of these are confirmed causal explanations from Ampere Analysis itself, but they describe a coherent picture of a platform whose appeal may be broadening beyond its traditional first-party-driven audience.
Year-over-year growth in third-party software sales across Switch and Switch 2, reaching $2.3 billion
Warner Bros. led the third-party leaderboard, ahead of Bandai Namco and EA.
Why a Platform's Health Is Not Just Its Own Games
Console platform coverage tends to concentrate on the manufacturer's own numbers: units sold, first-party title attach rates, revenue directly attributable to the platform holder. Those numbers are important and genuinely reflect Nintendo's direct business performance. But a video game platform's long-term health depends on something a manufacturer's own figures cannot fully capture: whether independent publishers, who have no obligation to support any specific console, choose to invest there and get rewarded for it.
Nintendo's history includes real examples of platforms that struggled specifically on this dimension, strong first-party sales coexisting with thin third-party support, which historically limited how much of the broader gaming audience the platform could actually reach. A 76% third-party sales increase, led by a major publisher's biggest recent hit, is a specific, measurable signal that this particular risk is not materializing for Switch 2, at least not in its first full year.
For any platform business, physical or digital, this distinction is worth generalizing: growth attributable to the platform owner's own products and growth attributable to independent participants choosing to invest are different, complementary signals of health. A platform business celebrating only its own product's growth while ignoring the ecosystem-level participation metric is missing half the picture of whether the platform is actually thriving.
First-Party Growth vs. Ecosystem Growth
One measures the platform owner's own products. The other measures whether outsiders want to build there too.
First-party growth: Nintendo's own hardware units and titles like Mario Kart World, a direct measure of the platform owner's business performance. Ecosystem growth: third-party publisher sales, up 76% and led by Warner Bros., a separate measure of whether independent developers see genuine commercial opportunity in the platform, a signal a manufacturer's own figures cannot capture on their own.
The Leadership Move
The structural choice for any platform business is whether to measure success primarily through its own product performance, or to track and actively cultivate independent participant growth as an equally important, separate health signal.
- Ownership
Nintendo's platform and publisher relations leadership own the responsibility to sustain the conditions, technical capability, licensing terms, market access, that made this third-party surge possible, treating it as a strategic asset rather than an incidental byproduct of the console's popularity.
- Tradeoff
Prioritizing third-party publisher relationships and platform openness can mean sharing commercial attention and shelf space that might otherwise favor Nintendo's own first-party titles exclusively. The tradeoff Nintendo appears to be accepting, evidenced by the data, is a more diversified, ecosystem-driven platform in exchange for a broader overall audience and revenue base than first-party titles alone could reach.
- Human consequence
Players who previously could not access titles like Hogwarts Legacy on a Nintendo platform are now experiencing that content directly, a real expansion of what a Nintendo console can offer beyond its traditional first-party identity.
Next Move
If you operate a platform business of any kind: Track third-party or ecosystem participant growth as a distinct metric from your own product performance, since it measures a different and equally important dimension of platform health.
If you are a publisher or developer evaluating whether to invest in the Switch 2 ecosystem: Weigh this verified third-party growth data, led by a major publisher's success, against your own platform-specific investment decisions.
FAQ
How much did third-party software sales grow on Switch and Switch 2 in 2025?
Ampere Analysis found third-party software sales across the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 ecosystem reached $2.3 billion between Q2 and Q4 2025, up 76% from $1.3 billion in the same period in 2024.
Which publishers drove that growth?
Warner Bros. was the top-performing third-party publisher, driven substantially by Hogwarts Legacy's success on the platform, followed by Bandai Namco and EA. The data reflects games developed and published outside Nintendo's own studios, distinct from first-party Nintendo titles like Mario Kart World.
Why does third-party growth matter separately from Nintendo's own hardware and first-party software numbers?
Nintendo's own reported figures, hardware units sold and first-party title performance like Mario Kart World, describe Nintendo's direct business. Third-party software sales describe the health of the broader platform ecosystem, whether outside developers and publishers see the console as commercially worthwhile to support, a distinct and equally important signal for the platform's long-term viability.
What does strong third-party growth suggest about the Switch 2 platform?
Community discussion around the data points to factors including previously Nintendo-unavailable ports now reaching the platform, competitive third-party pricing, and Switch 2 serving as the primary or only console for players who previously lacked access to PlayStation or Xbox libraries, all suggesting the platform may be expanding beyond its traditional first-party-driven audience.
Sources & References
Original article archive
Original article published April 2, 2025: "Nintendo Switch 2 Excites With Fun". Preserved here for provenance, historical context, and citation continuity.
The gaming world is abuzz with the upcoming release of the Nintendo Switch 2, a console that promises to elevate the gaming experience with its enhanced features and innovative gameplay. As Nintendo prepares to launch this highly anticipated successor on June 5, 2025, for US$449.99, gamers are eager to explore the new possibilities it offers. With its larger display, revamped Joy-Con controllers, and robust lineup of launch games, the Nintendo Switch 2 is poised to not only captivate existing fans but also attract a broader audience. Transformidy explores the new console and how it will impact customer experience.
Key Takeaways
- Partnerships: Potential collaborations with Universal Studios and film studios to enhance customer experience.What is Nintendo Switch 2?
- Launch Details: The Nintendo Switch 2 launches on June 5, 2025, priced at $449.99 in the U.S.
- Hardware Improvements: Larger screen, enhanced performance, and redesigned Joy-Con controllers.
- Launch Games: Includes Mario Kart World, Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, and Donkey Kong Bananza.
- Innovations: Backward compatibility, virtual game cards, and GameChat functionality.
What Is Nintendo Switch 2?
Transformidy first reported about Nintendo Switch 2 back in January 2025. Since then, the world has been excitedly anticipating Nintendo's official announcement of the new console. That day has come!
The Nintendo Switch 2 is the latest evolution in Nintendo's hybrid gaming console series since the first Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was released in July 1983. The new console is designed to build upon the monumental success of its predecessor that has sold more than 150 million units as of the end of December 2024.
This new console boasts a larger screen, improved performance with a custom Nvidia chip, enhanced graphics capabilities, and redesigned Joy-Con controllers. The Nintendo Switch 2 will be available in various regions with pricing adjusted accordingly: $449.99 in the U.S., £395.99 in the UK, and €469.99 in EU. It comes bundled with Joy-Con 2 controllers, a Joy-Con 2 Grip, and other accessories, ensuring a comprehensive gaming experience right out of the box. The Mario Kart World bundle will at US50 at start
Nintendo Switch 2 In Detail
Nintendo Switch 2 comes with the following:
- USB-C Charging Cable
- Nintendo Switch 2 console (7.9-inch (~28% bigger than original) built-in LCD screen that displays in full HD at 1080p (original only had 720p) that supports HDR, 256GB internal memory (8x more than the original), USB-C port, and microSD Express card access, WiFi 6, headphone jack and a CPU/GPU that supports 4K processing/tv output at 120fps and spatial audio).
- Magnetic Joy-Con 2 controllers (L+R)
- Joy-Con 2 Grip
- Joy-Con 2 Straps
- Nintendo Switch 2 Dock - with USB-C port
- Ultra High-Speed HDMI Cable
- Nintendo Switch 2 AC Adapter
New Games Available at Launch
The Switch 2's launch lineup is as exciting as it is diverse, featuring titles like Mario Kart World, Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, and Donkey Kong Bananza. Mario Kart World, in particular, promises a fresh racing experience with interconnected courses and innovative gameplay modes such as Knockout Tour and Free Roam. These games not only showcase the console's capabilities but also cater to a wide range of gaming preferences, ensuring there's something for everyone.
In addition, there will be nine native Nintendo Switch 2 games available on release date with 13 more available by December 2025. 10 older games will also be enhanced with newer graphics and will be available as a separate purchase or as a pack.
| Game | Game Developer | Game Publisher | Release Date |
| Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster | Silicon Studio | Square Enix | June 5, 2025 |
| Cyberpunk 2077 | CD Projekt Red | CD Projekt | June 5, 2025 |
| Deltarune | Toby Fox | 8-4 | June 5, 2025 |
| Hitman: World of Assassination | IO Interactive | IO Interactive | June 5, 2025 |
| Hogwarts Legacy | Avalanche Software | Portkey Games | June 5, 2025 |
| Mario Kart World | Nintendo | Nintendo | June 5, 2025 |
| Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour | Nintendo | Nintendo | June 5, 2025 |
| Split Fiction | Hazelight Studios | Electronic Arts | June 5, 2025 |
| Street Fighter 6 | Capcom | Capcom | June 5, 2025 |
Innovations for Players
Beyond its impressive hardware and game lineup, the Switch 2 introduces several innovations aimed at enhancing player engagement. The console supports backward compatibility with original Switch games, allowing users to enjoy their existing library alongside new titles.Additionally, Nintendo has introduced virtual game cards, which simplify digital game management and enable lending and borrowing among family members.
The Switch 2 also features a chat function called GameChat, available to all users during an initial open-access period until March 2026. This focus on connectivity and accessibility is set to redefine how players interact with games and each other.
Customer Experience Implications
Nintendo's approach to customer experience with the Switch 2 extends beyond the console itself. The company is leveraging partnerships with travel and entertainment companies to create immersive experiences. For instance, collaborations with Universal Studios could lead to themed gaming areas or exclusive content, further blurring the lines between gaming and real-world entertainment.
As this is likely the only new gaming console to be released in 2025, retailers and mall operators should consider setting up unique spaces to showcase and maximize awareness and sales. An official Nintendo Switch 2 Day will likely draw significant crowds to any space.
Additionally, Nintendo can rebuild/enhance its loyalty program by offering exclusive content, digital achievement badges, early access to new games, or special editions for loyal customers. This strategy not only retains existing fans but also attracts new ones by showcasing the value of being part of the Nintendo community.
Nintendo's emphasis on family-friendly experiences can be expanded through partnerships with film studios, themed parks (with Universal Studios), and Lego, creating interactive content that complements popular movies. This could include physical elements, interactive experiences, or even themed accessories, all designed to bring families closer together through shared gaming experiences. By focusing on these partnerships and innovations, Nintendo can significantly expand its audience reach and create a more inclusive gaming environment.
AI could be used to personalize experiences (e.g., create new unique wallpaper and in-game experiences based on player feedback and inputs).
Transform for the Better
As Nintendo prepares to launch the Switch 2, it's clear that this console represents more than just an upgrade—it's a leap forward in gaming innovation and customer experience. By combining cutting-edge technology with engaging games and innovative services, Nintendo is poised to not only meet but exceed the high expectations set by its predecessor. The Switch 2's potential to transform the gaming landscape is vast, offering a platform that is both accessible and exciting for players of all ages.
As Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa noted, "Nintendo Switch 2 is the next step in at-home gaming that can be taken on the go based on eight years of play and discovery that began with Nintendo Switch". This vision underscores Nintendo's commitment to creating a gaming experience that is both enjoyable and inclusive.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ) - Nintendo Switch 2
- What is the release date of the Nintendo Switch 2?
- The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to release on June 5, 2025 around the world.
- How much does the Nintendo Switch 2 cost?
- What are some of the notable launch games for the Switch 2?
- Does the Switch 2 support original Switch games?
- What is GameChat, and how does it work?
- How does Nintendo plan to enhance customer experience with the Switch 2?
- Are there any special bundles available for the Switch 2?
- What are some potential partnerships Nintendo might explore with the Switch 2?
- Potential partnerships include collaborations with Universal Studios, film studios, fast food restaurants, Lego, apparel brands, etc.
- How does the Switch 2 improve upon the original Switch?
- Can I lend or borrow digital games on the Switch 2?
Next Steps
Transformidy is available to help you understand your brand’s value proposition and maximize your customer experience strategy for business growth, engagement, and satisfaction.
Contact us or set up a 30-minute complimentary consultation for more information on our services, insights, or showcases. We look forward to hearing from you.
FAQ
How much did third-party software sales grow on Switch and Switch 2 in 2025?
Ampere Analysis found third-party software sales across the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 ecosystem reached $2.3 billion between Q2 and Q4 2025, up 76% from $1.3 billion in the same period in 2024.
Which publishers drove that growth?
Warner Bros. was the top-performing third-party publisher, driven substantially by Hogwarts Legacy's success on the platform, followed by Bandai Namco and EA. The data reflects games developed and published outside Nintendo's own studios, distinct from first-party Nintendo titles like Mario Kart World.
Why does third-party growth matter separately from Nintendo's own hardware and first-party software numbers?
Nintendo's own reported figures, hardware units sold and first-party title performance like Mario Kart World, describe Nintendo's direct business. Third-party software sales describe the health of the broader platform ecosystem, whether outside developers and publishers see the console as commercially worthwhile to support, a distinct and equally important signal for the platform's long-term viability.
What does strong third-party growth suggest about the Switch 2 platform?
Community discussion around the data points to factors including previously Nintendo-unavailable ports now reaching the platform, competitive third-party pricing, and Switch 2 serving as the primary or only console for players who previously lacked access to PlayStation or Xbox libraries, all suggesting the platform may be expanding beyond its traditional first-party-driven audience.
Related intelligence
Article
Department Store Strategy: Identity vs. Omnichannel
Department stores pursued omnichannel integration to compete with specialists and e-commerce. But integration without identity eroded customer loyalty. Successful stores rebuilt around curation and experience, not channel consolidation.
Article
Millennials Are Going to Dine Out 14 Times a Month in 2026
Millennials plan to dine out 14 times a month in 2026, well above the 10-times average across all Americans. 55% say they will spend even more on restaurants next year. The generation restaurants most need to design a dine-in experience for has already told OpenTable who they are.
Article
Three in Four Restaurant Orders Never Touch a Dining Room
Nearly 75% of restaurant traffic is now off-premise. The National Restaurant Association's own economist calls it not a trend but a business model. Most restaurants are still designed, staffed, and measured as if the dining room is the main event.