The Nintendo Switch 2 launched with a big splash, selling over 3.5 million units worldwide in just a few days since its June 5, 2025, release, making it the fastest-selling game device ever. But despite this strong start, new reports show that sales of games from companies other than Nintendo are struggling, suggesting a rocky beginning for the new console.
New data from The Game Business reveals that most third-party games—titles made by companies like CD Projekt Red or Sega—aren’t selling well. One publisher even said their sales were “below our lowest guesses,” even though the console itself is doing great.
In the US, 62% of physical game sales last week were Nintendo’s own games, not counting the popular Mario Kart World bundle that came with many consoles.
In the UK, that number jumps to 86% with the bundle included, and 48% without it. This shows most players are sticking to Nintendo’s titles like Mario Kart World and Zelda editions.
The only third-party game doing okay is Cyberpunk 2077, which sold well thanks to its full physical copy, unlike others that use “game key cards” requiring downloads.
Many other launch games, like Hogwarts Legacy or Street Fighter, are older titles that players might already own on other devices, and their high prices—around $50 to $80—aren’t helping.
Some fans dislike the key card system, preferring traditional game copies, which might explain the low interest.
Nintendo’s decision to not send review copies to press before launch also means there’s little early buzz for these games. Plus, the Switch 2 can play many older Switch games with free upgrades, so players might not feel the need to buy new ones yet.
With big titles like Donkey Kong Bananza and Pokémon Legends: Z-A still to come, Nintendo’s games will likely keep leading.
But for other game makers to catch up, they might need to offer new titles, lower prices, or bring back full physical copies.
