As of last November, we are in a new console generation as Sony and Microsoft launched their PS5 and Xbox Series X/S, respectively. Due to all the various issues with COVID, it was something of a miracle either company managed, but it happened all the same. But one can’t forget Nintendo, as their Switch has been selling steadily despite this fresh competition, doing very well for itself in that same November. Some even say that 2021 is also going to be the Switch’s year still.
Nintendo released their hybrid in 2017, but so far has shown no signs of slowing down. Over at GamesIndustry, several analysts speculated about what the new year would look like. Surprisingly, several of them saw the Switch as coming out on top in 2021 despite the new consoles. One of the biggest reason for some was the long rumored revision, the “Switch Pro,” that many have been speculating on and production rumors have been swirling about for the better part of a year. It’s not all about that, however, such NPD’s Mat Piscatella who thinks it won’t just be a new revision, it will also come down to new content and aggressive promotion.
While none of the analyst explicitly mention it, another factor is stock issues that are expected to plague Sony and Microsoft for their new consoles as well. Microsoft signaled recently that it could be the summer before we see mass production of the Xbox Series X/S, and Sony is probably in a similar boat. So, that would also give Nintendo an edge if they can keep their production steady. We won’t know until we get to the end of the year, obviously, but if there is one thing certain at this point, it’s that you should underestimate the Switch. Regardless of what spot it does or doesn’t take at 2021’s end, it’ll undoubtedly still do very well in its fourth year.
