:

SWITCH 2 SALES PLUNGE IN WORST US JULY SINCE COVID

INDUSTRY DESK1 MIN READ
THU, AUG 20, 2026

■ AI-SUMMARIZED FROM 1 SOURCE ▸ TIMELINE

Nintendo's Switch 2 posted less than half the sales of July a year prior, dragging the entire US console market into decline. July marked the worst month for hardware sales since the pandemic, according to market researcher Circana.

The Nintendo Switch 2 underperformed significantly compared to the same period in 2023, contributing to a broader industrywide hardware slump. Circana's data shows July 2024 represented the weakest month for US console sales since Covid-19 disrupted the market in 2020. The decline reflects shifting consumer spending patterns and a potentially saturated market as the current generation of consoles matures. Switch 2's slower-than-expected July performance raises questions about Nintendo's ability to generate momentum during the console's critical early months. The hardware downturn comes as the gaming industry navigates changing player preferences and economic headwinds affecting discretionary spending. Other console manufacturers faced similar challenges during the month, suggesting broader market pressures rather than issues isolated to Nintendo's platform. Circana tracks US video game hardware and software sales across major retailers and digital channels, providing comprehensive market visibility for the gaming industry.

■ SOURCES

Bloomberg Tech

■ SUMMARY WRITTEN BY AI FROM THE LINKS ABOVE

■ MORE FROM THE GAMING DESK

CyberLeek, the individual behind recent Grand Theft Auto VI leaks, has released additional gameplay footage suggesting direct access to the game. The new material includes a video of a character spelling 'leek' with bullet holes in a wall.

JUST NOWSecurity Desk

FromSoftware's new title, The Duskbloods, pivots from the studio's signature single-player RPGs to focus on multiplayer combat. The frantic action game emphasizes player interaction across competitive and social mechanics.

2H AGOIndustry Desk

Nintendo is departing from its family-friendly image with The Duskbloods, a hardcore multiplayer vampire game developed by Elden Ring creator FromSoftware. The title is a flagship exclusive for the Switch 2.

3H AGOIndustry Desk

US video game hardware spending dropped 29% year-over-year in July to $282 million, marking the lowest point since the COVID-19 pandemic. Unit shipments fell 39% as average console prices climbed to $542.

3H AGOIndustry Desk

■ SUBSCRIBE TO THE DAILY BRIEF

ONE EMAIL, 5 STORIES, 06:00 UTC. UNSUBSCRIBE ANYTIME.