What began as an unusual idea to mix home and handheld gaming has turned into a historic success. Nintendo’s Switch console has now become the best-selling device in the company’s long history, crossing 155 million units sold worldwide.
Launched in 2017, the Switch stood out by allowing players to game on a television or carry the same console on the go. That flexibility struck a chord with families, casual players and long-time fans alike. During the COVID-19 lockdowns, when people were spending more time indoors, the Switch became a source of comfort and connection for millions.
Its success was powered by games that felt familiar yet fresh. Titles from iconic franchises such as Mario, The Legend of Zelda, Pokémon and Mario Kart kept players coming back year after year. Parents played alongside children, and seasoned gamers rediscovered the joy of simple, fun gameplay.
With this milestone, the Switch has overtaken the Nintendo DS, which previously held the company’s sales record. However, it still trails Sony’s PlayStation 2, which remains the world’s best-selling console overall.
Nintendo is now looking to the future. Its newer console, the Switch 2, launched in 2025 and has already seen strong early demand, selling around 17 million units in just a few months. While matching the original Switch’s success may be challenging, the early response has been encouraging.
Industry experts say Nintendo’s story shows how innovation, nostalgia and timing can come together to create something lasting, not just a console, but a shared experience enjoyed across generations.
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