Japan’s console game market experienced an astonishing growth of 138.8% in 2025, reaching a staggering 418.13 billion yen (approximately $2.64 billion USD). This remarkable surge is primarily attributed to the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, which alone sold nearly 3.8 million units in Japan by the year’s end. The data, reported by Kadokawa Game Linkage and Famitsu, highlights a significant increase in both hardware and physical software sales, with hardware sales up by 149.

Japan’s console game market experienced a staggering growth of 138.8% in 2025, reaching approximately $2.64 billion USD. This remarkable surge is largely attributed to the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, which sold nearly 3.8 million units by year-end. The report from Kadokawa Game Linkage and Famitsu highlights that both hardware and physical software sales saw significant increases, with hardware sales alone up by 149.3% year-on-year. The success of the Nintendo Switch 2 has not only revitalized the console gaming landscape in Japan but has also set the stage for future growth with anticipated titles like Dragon Quest VII Reimagined and Resident Evil Requiem on the horizon.

In an exciting revelation, Bloober Team’s CEO Piotr Babieno has hinted that their upcoming Nintendo exclusive, Project M, is set to captivate fans of iconic horror franchises like Resident Evil, Silent Hill, and Eternal Darkness. According to Babieno, the game will feature unique gameplay elements that can only be realized on Nintendo hardware, promising a fresh twist on the horror genre that players have yet to experience. Babieno expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “You have no idea how hard it is for me not to reveal what Project M truly isbut for now, it’s still too early to talk about it.

As the gaming community eagerly anticipates the results of the 43rd annual Golden Joystick Awards, two standout titles from Nintendo’s Switch 2 lineup have garnered significant nominations: Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza. Both games are not only competing for the prestigious title of ‘Console Game of the Year’ but also for accolades in best multiplayer and best audio design categories, respectively. This recognition highlights the strong start for the Switch 2, which has quickly established itself in a competitive gaming landscape.

In a surprising turn of events, Nintendo has publicly denied claims made by Japanese politician Satoshi Asano regarding its position on generative AI. Asano suggested that Nintendo was lobbying against the use of this technology to safeguard its intellectual property. However, Nintendo swiftly countered these assertions, stating that they have not engaged with the Japanese government on this matter and will continue to protect their IP rights regardless of AI developments.

A Nintendo Direct presentation is reportedly set for mid-September, creating a buzz among fans eager for updates. This event, rumored to take place on September 12, coincides with the 40th anniversary of Super Mario Bros, making it a significant date for Nintendo enthusiasts. While the specifics of the presentation remain under wraps, many speculate that it will finally unveil the release date for Metroid Prime 4. The game, which has been highly anticipated, recently received a rating from the ESRB, indicating that it is on track for release this year.

Nintendo is set to revolutionize competitive gaming with its upcoming title, Drag x Drive, a unique vehicular basketball game that promises an engaging experience for players. Ahead of its full release on August 14, Nintendo is offering a free trial through the Drag x Drive: Global Jam event, exclusively for Nintendo Switch Online members. This initiative not only builds excitement but also allows players to experience the game before committing to a purchase.

Fans are buzzing with excitement as they believe Nintendo may have inadvertently revealed upcoming titles for the Nintendo Switch Online’s N64 library. A recent trailer showcased blurred images of several classic games, leading to speculation that fan-favorites like Donkey Kong 64 and Super Smash Bros could soon be available for subscribers. This revelation comes as part of Nintendo’s ongoing efforts to expand its classic games library, which already includes over 30 titles.