Upon its initial revelation in January, the Nintendo Switch 2 was confirmed as the official title for Nintendo’s much-anticipated console. Interestingly, there was considerable speculation regarding its naming, with fans proposing a variety of alternative titles, some of which carried their own unique charm. While the chosen name is straightforward, it stands in stark contrast to several imaginative fan suggestions.
In a recent installment of Nintendo’s “Ask the Developer”interview series, it was disclosed that the Nintendo Switch 2 was nearly named the Super Nintendo Switch. This idea was intended to echo the transition from the original NES to the Super NES. Ultimately, the decision to stick with Nintendo Switch 2 was influenced by the console’s backward compatibility with its predecessor. Producer Kouichi Kawamoto explained, “Since Switch 2 can play Switch games, it didn’t feel right to use the same naming convention as Super NES.”
Kawamoto further elaborated, emphasizing that Nintendo aimed for the console to represent a natural progression from the original Switch. He noted, “We’d like players who get their hands on it not to focus on the specs, but rather to think of it as the latest system developed by Nintendo.”He also expressed hope that the Switch 2 would establish itself as the new standard for Nintendo consoles, stating, “So, in the hope that it becomes the new standard for Nintendo Switch, we named it Nintendo Switch 2.”
The Nintendo Switch 2: A Logical Progression from the Switch 1
Enhancements Over Its Predecessor
The specifications and features of the Switch 2 validate its position as a meaningful advancement over the original Switch. Maintaining the beloved Joy-Cons, introducing a larger screen, and ensuring backward compatibility with most Switch titles, the Nintendo Switch 2 embodies an upgraded version of the original. The enhancements not only justify its name but also reinforce the notion that it is an evolved console rather than just a slight iteration.
Historically, Nintendo grappled with replicating the success of the Wii, especially after following it up with the Wii U—a console that faltered in popularity. The choice of a more conventional name, such as Nintendo Switch 2, might serve as a strategic response aimed at avoiding a similar fate.
Our Perspective: Nintendo Switch 2’s Name Is Spot On
If It’s Not Broken, Don’t Fix It
The original Nintendo Switch redefined the possibilities for Nintendo, achieving remarkable commercial success with sales nearing 150 million units. By opting for the name Nintendo Switch 2, as opposed to the Super Nintendo Switch, the company made a judicious choice. The latter name might have misled consumers into perceiving it as a mere mid-cycle upgrade, akin to the PS5 Pro, rather than a distinct new console.
Although the designation “Super Nintendo Switch”could have served as a nostalgic nod, the Nintendo Switch 2 name effectively reinforces its status as Nintendo’s flagship console moving forward.
Source: Nintendo