“Nintendo Is Losing Their Identity” With Switch 2, Former PlayStation Boss Says

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As a longtime gamer, I’ve always admired Nintendo for its unique approach and innovative spirit. However, after hearing the latest about the Nintendo Switch 2 from former PlayStation executive Shuhei Yoshida, I can’t help but feel a bit concerned. In his recent interview on the Easy Allies podcast, he shared his thoughts, saying that the new console might be sending mixed signals for Nintendo. He hinted that, in his opinion, Nintendo could potentially be losing their distinctive identity with this new device due to its lack of groundbreaking features compared to past releases.

Through his extensive career in the gaming industry spanning several decades, Yoshida has noted that Nintendo consistently distinguishes itself by providing an unprecedented “unique interactive journey” that catches everyone off guard.

Indeed, just as we had expected, the new Switch 2 appears to be superior in many ways. It boasts a larger screen, a more potent processor, higher resolution, and supports 4K at 120 frames per second. Even their hardware specialist began the stream, mimicking the approach of other platforms. Given its improved capabilities, the essence of Switch 2 can be summarized as ‘We’ve made things better,’ which is a strategy often employed by other companies.

Special guest Shuhei Yoshida gets real about the Switch 2

— Easy Allies (@EasyAllies) April 14, 2025

Despite his praise for the improved mouse controls on the Switch 2’s Drag X Drive game, which he deemed “very Nintendo,” Yoshida admitted he felt somewhat let down by the console overall and the fan reaction to it. Instead of expressing widespread disappointment, Yoshida noted, people seemed to want a more enhanced version of the original Switch, implying they were simply seeking a “superior Switch” experience.

The Switch is the No. 2 best-selling console ever, with more than 150 million units sold.

When the Switch 2 was revealed in January, Yoshida expressed his surprise at the console’s lack of unexpected features. Given this, it is understandable that his recent comments reiterating this sentiment are consistent with his previous thoughts.

Essentially, Nintendo has consistently stated that the Switch 2 represents an upgrade in terms of performance. Their goal is to make this enhanced version the new benchmark for the Nintendo Switch family, hence its name: Nintendo Switch 2.

In simpler terms, Takuhiro Dohta, the director of development for the Switch 2, stated that this new version isn’t primarily designed for people who prefer high-end hardware. Instead, its goal is to create a product that appeals to as many people as possible. He explained that they chose the name “Nintendo Switch 2” so that potential buyers would easily understand that it’s the latest system in the Nintendo Switch family if they’re considering purchasing one.

Designer Tetsuya Sasaki from Nintendo, discussing the title of the upcoming console, stated that the name “Switch 2” is straightforward and easy to grasp. He further explained that it was always intended for this system to serve as a suitable follow-up to the original Switch, hence maintaining the same name was logical.

In early 2025, Yoshida parted ways with PlayStation after spending three decades with the corporation. Post his departure from Sony, he has become quite vocal in his interviews, expressing candid opinions on various subjects.

Yoshida recently garnered attention for expressing that he would have objected to Sony’s move towards live-service games, and was taken aback by the underperformance of Horizon Forbidden West in terms of sales compared to expectations. In addition, Yoshida discussed the reasons behind the absence of a Bloodborne remaster up until now.

On June 5th, we can expect the release of the Nintendo Switch 2. The company has set its retail price at $450, though concerns have been raised that this might increase because of President Trump’s tariffs. However, some analysts are optimistic and think that the price will remain unchanged.

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2025-04-15 16:09