The Nintendo Switch Surpasses the DS to Become Nintendo’s Best-Selling Console of All Time

In a historic milestone for the gaming industry, Nintendo has officially announced that the Nintendo Switch has surpassed the Nintendo DS to become the company’s best-selling console of all time. According to Nintendo’s latest earnings release, as of December 31, 2025, the Nintendo Switch has sold an astounding 155.37 million units since its launch in March 2017. This achievement edges out the beloved Nintendo DS, which sold 154.02 million units after its release in 2004.

The race between these two iconic consoles has been closely watched by gaming enthusiasts and industry analysts alike. In November, Nintendo reported that the Switch and DS were neck and neck in terms of lifetime sales, setting the stage for a dramatic finish. The holiday sales period proved to be the decisive factor, with the Switch pulling ahead to claim the crown. This accomplishment is particularly impressive given that Nintendo had already announced its focus on the upcoming Switch 2, signaling a shift in the company’s development priorities.

The Nintendo Switch’s journey to the top has been nothing short of remarkable. Launched as a hybrid console capable of both handheld and docked gameplay, the Switch quickly captured the hearts of gamers worldwide. Its innovative design, coupled with a stellar lineup of exclusive titles such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons, propelled it to unprecedented success. The console’s versatility and family-friendly appeal have made it a staple in households across the globe, transcending traditional gaming demographics.

However, Nintendo’s ambitions don’t stop here. With the Switch now holding the title of Nintendo’s best-selling console, the company has set its sights on an even loftier goal: dethroning Sony’s PlayStation 2 as the best-selling video game console of all time. The PlayStation 2, which was discontinued in January 2013, sold over 160 million units during its 13-year lifespan. To achieve this feat, Nintendo will need to continue selling the original Switch while balancing the launch and promotion of the Switch 2.

Nintendo has indicated that it plans to keep the original Switch in production “while taking consumer demand and the business environment into consideration.” This strategy reflects the company’s commitment to maximizing the Switch’s potential while preparing for the next generation of gaming. The Switch 2, rumored to feature enhanced performance and new capabilities, is expected to build on the success of its predecessor and further solidify Nintendo’s position in the gaming market.

The significance of this milestone extends beyond mere sales figures. The Nintendo Switch’s success represents a shift in the gaming landscape, highlighting the growing demand for flexible and accessible gaming experiences. Its ability to seamlessly transition between handheld and home console modes has resonated with players of all ages, making it a cultural phenomenon in its own right. From casual gamers to hardcore enthusiasts, the Switch has something for everyone, cementing its place in gaming history.

As Nintendo celebrates this achievement, the gaming community eagerly anticipates what the future holds. With the Switch 2 on the horizon and the original Switch continuing to sell strong, Nintendo is poised to remain a dominant force in the industry. Whether the company can surpass the PlayStation 2 remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the Nintendo Switch has already secured its legacy as one of the most influential consoles of all time.

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