The semiconductor shortage has caused serious problems in the manufacturing of games consoles. We could forgive anyone for thinking that Nintendo and its Switch console have weathered this particular storm well.

However, all may not be as it seems...

Nintendo Switch Sales May See Slump

Gamers and gaming industry folk are all too painfully aware of the current semiconductor shortage. It has affected most, if not all, hardware manufacturers that use these components. Even Nintendo.

Nintendo has seen a record-breaking leading sales run for well over two years, now. So it comes as a surprise to probably everyone that Shuntaro Furukawa has announced to nikkei.com that Switch sales may see a drop in numbers.

Speaking to the Japanese website, Nintendo has enough parts to continue producing Switch consoles. For the time being, anyway.

How Is Nintendo Tackling the Component Crisis?

semiconductor-chip

According to the Nikkei report, Furukawa states:

We have been able to secure the necessary materials for the immediate production of semiconductors for switches. However, in Japan and other countries, demand has been very strong since the beginning of the year, and there is a possibility of shortages at some retailers in the future. It is difficult to say how we will deal with this, but in some cases we may not be able to prepare enough for orders.

So, for the time being, we needn't worry. Nintendo has enough semiconductor stock to keep manufacturing the Switch. However, this might not only affect sales of the current Nintendo Switch but also the forthcoming Switch Pro, as we know it colloquially.

Should We Be Concerned About the Switch Component Shortage?

Currently, Nintendo isn't worrying about the chip shortage, so we shouldn't either. At least, not as far as the Switch goes. If you're after a PS5 or an Xbox Series X/S, then you'll have to remain patient.

However, Nintendo shouldn't be resting on its laurels. The Switch is now four years old and some consider the console to have reached its peak. With a new Switch on the way, Nintendo might find itself in the same boiling water, supply chain-wise, as Sony and Microsoft have with their consoles.

Saying that, Nintendo will probably release the new Switch at the very end of 2021, so there is time for the semiconductor industry to recover before then.

Are You Going to Buy a Nintendo Switch?

Someone in a red shirt holding a Nintendo Switch

If so, then the news that Nintendo has overcome the semiconductor shortage will be music to your ears. If you're holding on for the Switch Pro, however, then prepare yourself now for the possibility of delays in manufacture.

If you already have a Switch, then you've got nothing to worry about. You can just continue enjoying all the apps and games available on the Nintendo handheld!