Since 2017, the Nintendo Switch has been Nintendo’s headline act. With its innovative portability functions, it allowed players to take almost any game they wish on the go. Some fans have speculated and rumored that Nintendo would release a “Switch Pro” to keep up with competing consoles, and rumors aboutSwitch Pro before E3 2021had run rampant. After the dust had settled from E3, Doug Bowser commented about the lack of a new console with the Washington Post, sharing the company’s stance on the current state of the Switch.
The initial tweet regarding the E3 Nintendo Direct did specify it would only focus on its software. Bowser’s comments reinforce this notion, citing that any new technology showcase would be when it’s right. “It’s how specifically can technology enhance a gameplay experience. And then where do you apply that technology? Do you want to apply it on current existing hardware or platforms, or do you want to wait for the next platform? And then what’s the right gameplay experience with that? There’s a host of factors that goes into it, and it’s something we’re always looking at,” Bowser said.
RELATED:Imagining Mario Kart 9 on New, Stronger Switch Pro Hardware
This answer was in response to other publications and reports about the Switch getting an upgrade, where instead of focusing entirely on hardware,the strengths of the Nintendo Switchlie in its library. While Sony is pushing the envelope with its technology, and Microsoft is pushing the Game Pass services, Nintendo continues buckling down on its variety of games. Bowser comments further, regarding the lifespan of the console. “As we enter into our fifth year, Nintendo Switch really is redefining what a console life cycle can look like, and the vibrancy of that overall life cycle with a strong cadence of content,” Bowser said.
The rough average lifespan of each console that Nintendo has released has been around 5-6 years. Even with the console approaching the fifth year since its release, the Switch is strong in sales and library. This includesrecord-breaking numbers with games likeMetroid Dreadand the continued support of multiplayer games likeSuper Smash Bros. Ultimate. While there wasn’t a new Switch hardware announcement, Nintendo presented a brand newZelda-themedGame and Watchmachine in celebration of the series' 35th anniversary.
Despite the statement, some fans are still pondering on the possibility of anew model of Switch and what it can bringto existing games. However, as Bowser said, the Switch is going strong, and will be focused on keeping that momentum with its games. If there’s going to be a new Switch model, it will be announced when the time is right.
MORE:Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot on Switch Suddenly Has Huge Advantage Over Other Consoles
