Nintendo Switch Best Selling Games This Year
As avid Nintendo Switch gamers, we eagerly anticipate the release of Nintendo’s financial results each year. This provides a glimpse into the gaming trends of the last 12 months and uncovers which Nintendo Switch best selling games have captured the hearts of players worldwide. The results for the end of Year 2023, which ended in March, are now available.
Despite the Nintendo Switch having surpassed an impressive 125 million units sold, the console’s hardware and software sales have experienced a decline. The results indicate a 22.1% drop in hardware sales and a 9% drop in software sales. However, amidst these figures, several new releases and timeless classics have performed remarkably well in the Nintendo Switch games sale.
From Pokémon to Splatoon and beyond, here are the best selling games for Nintendo Switch over the last 12 months.
1. Pokémon Scarlet/ Pokémon Violet
With a staggering 2.21 million copies sold, Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet have dominated the Nintendo Switch games landscape over the past year. These latest additions to the Pokémon franchise have been eagerly received by fans, making them the top Nintendo Switch best selling games of the year.
2. Splatoon 3
Close on the heels of Pokémon is Splatoon 3, with 1.067 million units sold. The colorful, ink-splattering action of Splatoon continues to attract a broad audience, making it a perennial favorite among Nintendo Switch gamers.
3. Nintendo Switch Sports
Nintendo Switch Sports has proven to be a hit, with 960 thousand copies sold. This game’s success underscores the enduring appeal of Nintendo’s sports games, which seamlessly blend fun and fitness.
4. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, an enduring classic, has held its own with 845 thousand copies sold. This game’s high-octane, chaotic racing continues to be a hit among both new and seasoned Nintendo Switch gamers and remains the best selling Switch game of all time.
5. Kirby and the Forgotten Land
Kirby and the Forgotten Land have enchanted players, selling 381 thousand copies. This charming platformer has undoubtedly found its place in the hearts of Nintendo Switch gamers.
6. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Despite being released a few years ago, Animal Crossing: New Horizons has maintained its momentum, selling 358 thousand copies in the last 12 months.
7. Mario Party Superstars
Mario Party Superstars has brought the party to the Nintendo Switch, with 329 thousand units sold. This game offers a nostalgic trip through the series’ history that has clearly resonated with fans.
8. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild continues to captivate players, selling an additional 324 thousand copies over the past year. This timeless classic continues to be a best-seller long after its initial release.
9. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
With 292 thousand copies sold, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate continues to be a staple in the Nintendo Switch games collection for many. Its roster of beloved characters and intense action ensures its continued success.
10. Mario Strikers: Battle League
Rounding out the list is Mario Strikers: Battle League with 254,000 copies sold. This football-themed spin-off from the Mario franchise has proven to be a surprise hit, making its mark on the Nintendo Switch games sale.
Nintendo Switch: Riding the Wave of Game Popularity Amidst Console Sales Decline
Even though the sales of Nintendo Switch consoles have seen a dip recently, the enduring popularity of its games is evident from the sales figures. These numbers highlight the continued demand for captivating gaming experiences that the Nintendo Switch games are renowned for.
Furukawa of Nintendo responded to these findings with a statement, reinforcing their commitment to engaging consumers and maximising sales. He stated, “Nintendo Switch has entered its seventh year since launch, and while it will become more challenging to maintain the same sales momentum as before, our goal is to have more consumers continue to play Nintendo Switch for longer, leading to maximized sales.” Source https://finance.yahoo.com/news/nintendo-insists-no-switch-2-095359237.html?
This statement underlines Nintendo’s acknowledgment of the challenges they face as their flagship console ages. However, it also emphasizes their strategic approach to continue driving engagement by encouraging gamers to enjoy their Nintendo Switch for extended periods. This commitment to fostering long-term player engagement is pivotal to Nintendo’s strategy for maintaining sales in the face of declining hardware trends.
Whether it’s new releases, like the recent hits Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet, or long-standing franchises, like the Legend of Zelda and Mario Kart, Nintendo Switch games continue to capture the imaginations of players across the globe. Each game offers a unique experience, resonating with players in different ways, and contributing to the sustained popularity of the Nintendo Switch.
As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, Nintendo’s ability to offer a wide variety of engaging gaming experiences, combined with their commitment to encouraging long-term engagement, ensures that the Nintendo Switch continues to hold a special place in the hearts of gamers worldwide.