As anticipation builds for the unveiling of Nintendo's mysterious successor to the Switch, expected before 31st March 2025, the existing Switch console gears up for yet another holiday shopping season. This could be a pivotal time for the aging device as the gaming community questions whether a price cut might be on the horizon.

During a recent financial results presentation, Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa confirmed that the upcoming console will boast backward compatibility with existing Switch titles. This announcement is a relief for gamers who have invested in the extensive Switch library over the past seven years, ensuring that their favorite games will transition smoothly to the new system.

However, with sales of the original Switch likely to dwindle as it enters its eighth year, speculation is rife about a potential price reduction to boost sales and possibly help the current model break the illustrious record of the PlayStation 2, which stands at around 155 million units sold. The Switch has impressively sold approximately 146 million units so far, but a strategic price cut could act as a final push to surpass this record.

The standard Switch launched in 2017 at a price of $299.99 and remains available at the same price, with occasional bundles offering additional savings. Meanwhile, the more affordable Switch Lite is priced at $200, and the premium Switch OLED retails for $350. This variation gives Nintendo the flexibility to implement discounts if they choose to do so.

To better understand the likelihood of a price drop, several Nintendo Life team members shared their insights:

Ollie Reynolds, Staff Writer:

With the holiday season in full swing, this may be Nintendo's last significant opportunity to capitalize on Switch sales. While I doubt any price drop will occur until the official launch of 'Switch 2', which we hope will occur in 2025, it's noteworthy that Nintendo aims to sell 12.5 million units this fiscal year. If that goal is still achievable, why change the strategy now?

Alana Hagues, Deputy Editor:

As we approach the holiday rush, I find it hard to believe Nintendo would implement a price cut at this point. A Black Friday deal could happen, but I think it's more likely we’ll see bundles for the OLED or Lite models rather than a price drop for the standard Switch.

Jim Norman, Staff Writer:

Though I was once optimistic about a price cut this year, I have to agree that as sales continue to roll in, there's little incentive for Nintendo to lower prices now. Sales may be tapering, but they’re not dead, and I suspect the company would want to maximize profits during this vital holiday period.

Gavin Lane, Editor:

I don't foresee a price cut coming until at least the launch of Switch 2. With projected sales of 12.5 million units, the rationale for slashing prices simply isn’t there—especially when the company is still enjoying solid sales during this part of the life cycle. More importantly, maintaining a perception of high value is critical for the brand, particularly with Switch 2 potentially positioned at a premium price point.

In summary, the consensus among industry experts is clear: a significant price reduction for the current Switch model is unlikely until the imminent arrival of Switch 2. With the holiday season upon us, it seems that Nintendo is strategically focusing on maximizing profits rather than undercutting prices. Keep an eye on potential bundles, but when it comes to a price drop, don't hold your breath just yet! Will you be waiting for the Switch 2, or will you snag a Switch during this holiday season? Let us know your thoughts!