Nintendo Ending Original Switch Sales in Europe

The Nintendo Switch (original model) is a hybrid video game console developed and manufactured by Nintendo. Launched in March 2017, it belongs to the eighth generation of home consoles and functions as both a portable handheld device and a home console via a docking station. The console solves the problem of needing separate devices for on-the-go and at-home gaming by offering seamless transition between the two modes.

Key Facts

Why Is Nintendo Ending Sales of the Original Switch in Europe?

Nintendo is ending sales of the original Switch in Europe to streamline its product lineup ahead of the anticipated launch of the Nintendo Switch 2. The decision allows the company to focus manufacturing and marketing resources on newer models and the next-generation console.

According to a report from Kotaku, Nintendo confirmed that the original Switch will be phased out in European markets during 2025. The move mirrors similar discontinuations of older hardware generations, such as the Wii U and 3DS, as new hardware approaches. Nintendo has not announced a specific end date but stated that remaining stock will be sold until depleted.

“We are concentrating our efforts on the Nintendo Switch family of systems and preparing for the next chapter in gaming,” a Nintendo spokesperson told Kotaku.

Nintendo will stop selling the original Switch in Europe by the end of 2025, according to a company spokesperson quoted by Kotaku.

How Will This Affect Joy-Con Availability?

Joy-Con controllers for the original Switch will continue to be sold separately in Europe even after the console is discontinued. Nintendo has indicated that accessories and replacement parts for the original model will remain available to support existing users.

The Kotaku article notes that Joy-Con availability is not expected to be affected by the discontinuation, as the controllers are also compatible with the Switch OLED model and the Switch Lite. However, Nintendo has not specified how long Joy-Con production will continue. As of 2024, over 141 million Switch units have been sold, creating a large installed base that will require ongoing accessory support.

Joy-Con controllers will remain available for purchase in Europe after the original Switch is discontinued, Nintendo confirmed to Kotaku.

What Does This Mean for the Nintendo Switch 2 Launch?

The discontinuation of the original Switch in Europe is widely interpreted as a preparatory step for the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2. By clearing retail channels of the oldest model, Nintendo can avoid inventory overlap and focus consumer attention on the new hardware.

Industry analysts cited in the Kotaku report suggest that the timing aligns with a typical 6- to 7-year console lifecycle. Nintendo has not officially announced the Switch 2, but rumors point to a 2025 release. The original Switch’s phase-out in Europe reduces the risk of cannibalizing sales of the next-generation console. According to Nintendo’s fiscal 2024 earnings, the Switch family still generates significant revenue, but growth has slowed.

The end of original Switch sales in Europe signals that Nintendo is clearing the way for the Switch 2 launch, likely in 2025.

Who Is This For?

This news primarily affects European consumers who were considering purchasing the original Switch model. It also concerns current owners of the original Switch who may worry about future accessory and repair support. The discontinuation is less relevant to buyers in other regions, as Nintendo has not announced similar plans for North America or Japan.

For prospective buyers, the discontinuation means that the original Switch will become harder to find new in Europe, pushing them toward the Switch OLED or Switch Lite models. Existing owners can continue to use their consoles and purchase Joy-Con controllers separately.

Common Questions

Will the original Switch still receive software updates after discontinuation?

Yes. Nintendo typically continues to provide system software updates and online services for discontinued consoles for several years. The original Switch will still receive game releases and firmware updates for the foreseeable future.

Can I still buy Joy-Con controllers for the original Switch in Europe?

Yes. Nintendo has stated that Joy-Con controllers will remain available as separate accessories in Europe after the original Switch is discontinued. They are compatible with all Switch models.

When exactly will Nintendo stop selling the original Switch in Europe?

Nintendo has not announced a specific date. The company said sales will end “next year” (2025) and that remaining stock will be sold until depleted. No exact cutoff has been given.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on a single primary source: a Kotaku report published on the URL provided. The report cites a Nintendo spokesperson and includes sales data from Nintendo’s financial disclosures. All facts and quotes are derived from that source. No additional sources were synthesized. This article was last updated on March 27, 2025.