Nintendo is reportedly considering a price increase for the Nintendo Switch 2 later this year, as a global RAM crisis continues to disrupt the technology and gaming sectors. According to a Bloomberg report, the surge in demand for artificial intelligence applications has strained RAM supplies, prompting manufacturers to prioritise AI data centres over consumer products.
Impact of the RAM Shortage on Gaming Hardware
The ongoing RAM crisis, which has seen global stocks fully allocated for the next two years, is forcing hardware companies to reassess their pricing strategies. This shortage has already caused delays for Valve's Steam Machine gadgets, and now Nintendo faces potential challenges with its Switch 2 console. The situation highlights how broader technological trends, such as the AI boom, can ripple through consumer markets, affecting availability and costs.
Current Pricing and Sales Performance
Launched in June 2025 at £395.99, the Nintendo Switch 2 has sold an impressive 17.37 million units, outpacing the original Switch in terms of sales velocity. However, this stock was manufactured before the RAM crisis intensified. With Nintendo's backlog dwindling, the company is contemplating a price adjustment in 2026, though it has declined to comment publicly on the matter.
For consumers, this means that current deals, such as Argos offering the console for £385.99—a saving of ten pounds from the launch price—might represent the most affordable opportunity to purchase the Switch 2 before any potential hikes. The timing is critical, as the RAM shortage shows no signs of abating, potentially leading to higher costs for future production runs.
Broader Implications for the Gaming Industry
The RAM crisis is not limited to Nintendo; it could also affect other major players in the gaming world. The same Bloomberg report indicates that Sony is considering delaying the PS6 console to 2028 or 2029, thereby extending the lifecycle of the PS5 beyond initial expectations. This shift underscores the widespread impact of supply chain disruptions on product launches and pricing across the industry.
As AI-driven demand continues to outstrip RAM supply, manufacturers are forced to make tough decisions about resource allocation. This scenario raises questions about how long-term trends in technology might reshape consumer electronics, from gaming consoles to other gadgets. For now, gamers are advised to monitor pricing closely, as the current market conditions could lead to significant changes in affordability and availability in the coming months.
