Nintendo aims to match Switch success with new console
1 June 2025 12:12
TOKYO (AFP)Nintendo hopes to match the runaway success of the Switch when its levelled-up new console hits shelves Thursday, with strong early sales expected despite the gadget's high price.Featuring a bigger screen and more processing power, the Switch 2 is an upgrade to its predecessor, which has sold 152 million units since launching in 2017 -- making it the third best-selling video game console of all time.But despite buzz among fans and robust demand for pre-orders, headwinds for Nintendo include uncertainty over US trade tariffs and whether enough people are willing to shell out.The Switch 2 "is priced relatively high" compared to the original device, company president Shuntaro Furukawa said at a financial results briefing in May.Sales of the Switch, which can connect to a TV or be played on the go, were boosted by the popularity of games like Animal Crossing as a pandemic lockdown pastime.The Japanese company forecasts it will shift 15 million Switch 2 consoles in the current financial year, roughly equal to the original in the same period after its release.The new device costs $449.99 in the US, over a third more than the Switch. A Japan-only version is cheaper, at 49,980 yen ($350).New Switch 2 games such as Donkey Kong Bonanza and Mario Kart World -- which allows players to go exploring off-grid -- are also more expensive than existing Switch titles.Most original Switch games can be played on the Switch 2, and some Switch blockbusters such as Zelda: Breath of the Wild will have enhanced editions released for the new incarnation.The Switch 2 will have eight times the memory of the first Switch, and its controllers, which attach with magnets, can also be used like a desktop computer mouse.The Super Mario maker is diversifying into theme parks and hit movies, but around 90 percent of its revenue still comes from the Switch business, analysts say.
The console's pre-orders have since sold out in the US market and elsewhere, with the company boasting of particularly high demand in Japan.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
What's On
21 hours ago
- What's On
Review: Hanu, an interactive new Korean restaurant
In Dubai's burgeoning restaurant scene, a handful of restaurants make an instant impact. Sushisamba was one such restaurant, which brought a trifecta of excellent views, dishes and vibes to the Palm Tower in 2021. The man who can be credited with much of the success on the culinary front is chef Kyung Soo Moon, the restaurant's then-executive chef. But now he's turned his attention back to his roots for Hanu, a modern interpretation of Korean cuisine. Found at St Regis Gardens, it's in good company with restaurants like Leña, Aretha, Chez Wam and Tresind Studio among its neighbours. Once inside, we're met with dark and moody interiors with intricate attention to detail. Rich dark walnut woods, striking artworks and Korean pine trees lace the traditional with more contemporary accents befitting of a glamourous new Dubai restaurant. You enter through the lounge and bar where a DJ spins enigmatic beats that are thankfully not overpowering, through to a table in the restaurant. If you're unfamiliar with Korean BBQ, the knowledgeable team are on-hand to make recommendations, and confidently talk us through the concept and must-try dishes. The wagyu beef gyoza (Dhs68) are one such dish, piping hot parcels of Japanese A5 wagyu short rib and shiitake mushroom encased in a dough that's the perfect level of crispy and tender. Forget everything you know about vegetables and order the Korean fried cauliflower (Dhs65), coated in a spicy sauce and served with a side of yuja radish to balance the heat. The almost-too-pretty-to-eat beef tartelette (Dhs110) is another playful interpretation of classic Korean flavours, with a soft quail egg marinated in soy sauce, served on top of a tartelette of beef jongjorim, a layer of caviar giving it a Dubai elevation. To truly get a taste of Korean BBQ, order the 'Meat Me At The Grill' (Dhs365 per person), where you'll be served four cuts of premium meat with a selection of sides, condiments and a stew. It's a generous offering – much like it would be if you dined at Chef Moon's family home – given added wow-factor with the meats cooked on the charcoal grill built into each table. Each buttery cut of meat is full of flavour and perfectly cooked, from the Australian Black Angus to the Japanese A4 Wagyu striploin. For dessert, a beautifully presented golden pear delight (Dhs63) is a light and fresh way to end the meal. Diced Korean pear is paired with a walnut crumble and a scoop of tonka bean ice cream. Verdict: A focus on quality cuisine and service makes this a restaurant deserving of a place on your foodie bucket list. Hanu, St Regis Gardens, Palm Jumeirah, 6pm to 1am Sun to Weds, 6pm to 2am Thurs to Sat. Tel: (0)4 278 4844. @hanu_dubai > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Gulf Today
a day ago
- Gulf Today
Opal Suchata Chuangsri from Thailand crowned Miss World 2025
Opal Suchata Chuangsri of Thailand was crowned Miss World on Saturday in India, where the international pageant was held this year. Chuangsri topped a field of 108 contestants in the contest held in India's southern Hyderabad city. Hasset Dereje Admassu of Ethiopia was the first runner-up in the competition. Chuangsri received her crown from last year's winner Krystyna Pyszková. Miss World 2024 Krystyna Pyszkova (L) crowns Opal Suchata Chuangsri after winning the 72th Miss World 2025 pageant. AFP The 72nd Miss World beauty pageant was hosted by Miss World 2016 Stephanie del Valle and Indian presenter Sachiin Kumbhar. India hosted the beauty competition last year as well. India's Nandini Gupta exited after making it to the final 20. Participants take part in the grand finale of the 72th Miss World 2025 pageant in Hyderabad. AFP Six Indian women have won the title, including Reita Faria (1966), Aishwarya Rai (1994), Diana Hayden (1997), Yukta Mookhey (1999), Priyanka Chopra (2000) and Manushi Chillar (2017). Associated Press
Gulf Today
2 days ago
- Gulf Today
MBRL to launch series of cultural events
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Library (MBRL) is set to launch a diverse series of cultural events throughout June, offering visitors opportunities to discover new skills, expand their knowledge, and nurture their talents. To inaugurate the month's programme, the library will host a dynamic workshop in collaboration with the Dubai National Theatre. Centred around Romeo & Juliet, this session will explore character development, conflict, and dramatic language, aiming to elevate participants' writing and performance abilities. Under the evocative theme Rhythm of Dialects, the library will present a remarkable poetry evening celebrating the richness of spoken dialects from Egypt, the Levant, and the Gulf. Accompanied by live musical performances, the evening promises an immersive cultural experience, showcasing the depth of Arab heritage and the diversity of creative expression. A select group of renowned poets will contribute to this memorable event. Adding a historical dimension to the calendar, the library will organise a two-day exhibition titled Emirati Treasures Sealed by History: From Memory Archives to Treasures for Generations, in collaboration with the Emirates Philatelic Association. The exhibition will display a rare collection of stamps marking pivotal moments in the UAE's history. A dedicated workshop and discussion session will provide insights into the art of collecting, documenting, and preserving national memory. For students and job seekers, the Ready for the Workplace – Beyond the CV workshop will offer practical guidance for thriving in today's evolving job market. Participants will learn how to establish a professional presence, upgrade their LinkedIn profiles, and develop essential tools for a confident career launch—going far beyond the traditional CV. Highlighting international collaboration, the library will also host a three-day Korean Film Festival. Eight acclaimed films, including JAURIM and The Wonderland, will be screened, with a Q&A session featuring one of the directors. The festival will also include a traditional Korean musical performance using heritage instruments, creating a multi-sensory cultural experience for attendees. In collaboration with Cineolio, the library will organise Cineolio's Cinenights at its indoor theater. The evening will feature the screening of Egyptian-German production Dry Hot Summers (2015) by director Sherif El Bendary, the South Korean film Galloper (2024) by director Han-Wool Oh, and the Chinese film Run, Let's Run (2024) by director Yinxiao Ran. The evening aims to promote cultural exchange and highlight diverse films from different countries. In partnership with the International Ikebana Foundation, the library will present a unique workshop on Ikebana—the traditional Japanese art of flower arrangement. This interactive session will introduce participants to the principles of balance, harmony, and mindfulness through authentic Japanese floral design, blending natural beauty with deep cultural philosophy. To learn more about the June programme, register for events free of charge, or stay updated on activities throughout the year, please visit the official website and follow the library's social media channels. Through these initiatives, the MBRL reaffirms its role as a leading cultural and knowledge hub in Dubai, committed to enriching the community and opening new horizons for creativity and expression.
