3 Alarming Signs Nintendo Switch 2 is Losing Developer Support

When the Nintendo Switch 2 was announced, many had doubts on whether consumers would flock for the next iteration of the successful console. Those fears have been quieted. Fans have enthusiastically bought the new console and praised the new games, especially Donkey Kong Bananaza. However, some worry about the long term viability of the console given some of the issues at launch.

Nintendo Switch 2 may be off to a strong start, but analysts warn that weak third-party developer interest could threaten its long-term success. Here’s why Nintendo needs to rethink its strategy.

Nintendo Switch 2 Third-Party Developer Challenges

The Nintendo Switch 2 launched to impressive sales, surprising even Nintendo with its early success despite hardware shortages. Major titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Borderlands 4 have helped fuel initial excitement, but industry experts are raising red flags about the console’s future viability.

Kazunori Ito, an analyst at Morningstar, shared concerns with Bloomberg that the Switch 2 isn’t generating the kind of third-party developer enthusiasm typically seen with new console releases. While the platform has secured some high-profile ports, Ito warns that this momentum may not last. Developers reportedly aren’t experiencing the expected boom, which could signal trouble for Nintendo as the console matures.

The issue isn’t just about game availability-it’s about long-term ecosystem health. Without robust third-party support, the Switch 2 risks becoming overly reliant on Nintendo’s own titles, limiting variety and potentially alienating broader audiences. Ito’s warning suggests that Nintendo must act quickly to make the platform more attractive to external studios.

Pricing, Game Cards, and Developer Sentiment Raise Eyebrows

Beyond developer engagement, the Switch 2 has faced criticism over its pricing model. Both hardware and game costs have drawn backlash, especially as some physical releases rely on game costs have drawn backlash, especially as some physical releases rely on game-key cards rather than full game cartridges. This approach has frustrated collectors and players who prefer tangible media, further complicating the console’s appeal.

Look at any video game collector. Their gaming set up is filled with physical games. The games aren't just there for playing, they are there for the ambiance of the room. This may seem like a silly thing but it points to how Nintendo may be out of touch with some of their best customers.

The combination of high prices and limited third-party interest paints a concerning picture. While Nintendo’s first-party titles will likely continue to perform well, the lack of external developer enthusiasm could stunt the console’s growth. If Nintendo doesn’t address these concerns- whether through better developer incentives, improved hardware specs, or more transparent publishing practices- the Switch may struggle to maintain its early momentum.

As someone who’s never been interested in Nintendo’s developmental news before, I can say that this is a fascinating discovery ,as it makes me feel engaged with how Nintendo interacts with third-party console gaming and how to deal with its effect on Nintendo’s market as a whole. I’m not a marketing person, as I don’t know the logistics of how it works, but Nintendo could face a serious threat if left unmanaged.

In short, the Switch 2’s future depends not just on fan loyalty or blockbuster exclusives, but on its ability to foster a thriving, diverse game library. Nintendo has the brand power to recover, but analysts like Ito are urging the company to take a hard look at its strategy before it’s too late.

What do you think? Is the Nintendo Switch 2 in trouble long term, or has the company navigated these problems before?

This article originally appeared on Total Apex Gaming