According to IGN, Nintendo’s Switch 2 has crossed 10 million units sold, continuing its record-breaking run as the biggest console launch ever. The new console has dramatically outperformed both the original Switch, which sold 4.7 million units in its first six months, and the PlayStation 5, which moved 7.8 million units in the same timeframe. Nintendo has raised its hardware forecast and now expects to sell 19 million Switch 2 units by the end of March 2026. In separate news, the U.S. Patent Office will reexamine Nintendo’s ‘summon character and let it fight’ Pokémon patent, potentially undermining their lawsuit against Palworld developer Pocketpair. Microsoft also revealed its Game Pass Wave 1 offerings for November, with Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 leading the charge.
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Nintendo’s Unstoppable Momentum
Here’s the thing about Nintendo – they just keep defying expectations. While everyone else is chasing graphics and power, Nintendo focuses on that magical combination of innovation and accessibility. The Switch 2 doubling the launch numbers of its predecessor? That’s basically unheard of in the gaming industry. And crushing the PS5’s impressive launch numbers? That shows Nintendo has tapped into something special that transcends traditional console wars.
Why This Launch Strategy Works
Nintendo’s playing a completely different game than Sony and Microsoft. They’re not trying to win the hardware specs race – they’re creating ecosystems where the hardware and software work seamlessly together. The hybrid console concept proved brilliant with the original Switch, and now they’re doubling down with what appears to be an even more refined version. Selling 10 million units in six months means they’ve nailed supply chain management too, something that plagued both Sony and Microsoft during their recent launches. Now they’re projecting nearly 20 million by March 2026? That’s confidence.
Trouble in Pokémon Paradise
But it’s not all smooth sailing for Nintendo. This patent reexamination could seriously complicate their legal battle against Palworld. The ‘summon character and let it fight’ mechanic is pretty fundamental to Pokémon’s identity. If that patent gets weakened or invalidated, what does that mean for Nintendo’s ability to protect its most valuable franchise? It raises bigger questions about how much you can actually patent game mechanics versus specific implementations.
Microsoft’s November Power Play
Meanwhile, Microsoft continues its ‘everything day one on Game Pass’ strategy with Black Ops 7 leading the November lineup. This is exactly why they bought Activision – to make their subscription service the undeniable value leader. While Nintendo dominates hardware sales, Microsoft is betting big that the future is subscriptions. Two different approaches, both finding massive success. Isn’t it fascinating how these companies can succeed while playing completely different games?
