Nintendo(US:NTDOY) Guan Cha Zhe Wang·2025-04-28 09:42Core Viewpoint - The upcoming launch of Nintendo's new gaming console, Nintendo Switch 2, is overshadowed by concerns over tariffs and potential price increases for both the console and its accessories [1][3][4]. Group 1: Product Launch and Pricing - Nintendo plans to globally launch the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, with a Japanese price of 49,980 yen (approximately $350) and a U.S. price of $449.99 [3][4]. - The company has already shipped a significant portion of the new console's inventory to the U.S. ahead of the launch, despite initially pausing pre-orders due to tariff concerns [3][4]. - The U.S. market accounts for one-third of Nintendo's revenue, making it a critical area for the company's sales strategy [4]. Group 2: Tariff Impact - The ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions have led to increased tariffs, with Chinese-manufactured electronics facing a 20% basic tariff and certain products facing up to 45% [3][4]. - Analysts have downgraded the annual sales forecast for the Switch 2 from 17 million units to 15 million units, attributing this to the additional costs imposed by tariffs that may be passed on to consumers [4][10]. Group 3: Market Context and Future Implications - The success of the Switch 2 is seen as pivotal for Nintendo's future, especially following the failure of the Wii U, which sold less than 14 million units [9]. - The gaming industry is currently experiencing significant fragmentation in console choices, with various options like high-end consoles (e.g., PS5 Pro), handheld devices, cloud gaming, and PC gaming competing for market share [7][9]. - Despite the challenges, the Switch 2 is still expected to become one of the fastest-selling gaming consoles [10].