Nintendo Switch 2 users buying fewer games because of AI storage crisis, report claims — game demand under threat as titles get bigger and storage gets more expensive
Source: Tom’s Hardware
Image credit: Tom’s Hardware
Nintendo is feeling the pressure of the AI‑driven NAND shortage, which is driving up component costs for the Switch 2 handheld. According to Bloomberg, the console’s onboard storage is limited to 256 GB. Because the Switch 2 uses more powerful hardware than its predecessor, game files are considerably larger. For instance, the upcoming Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is about 102.5 GB, consuming roughly 40 % of the internal capacity.
Impact on Game Purchases
A gamer quoted by Bloomberg said they used to buy games “on a whim,” but now hesitate because “the space is filling up so quickly.” Bloomberg’s analysis shows that Switch 2 software sales are lagging behind the original Switch. By the end of 2025, the average number of games purchased per console dropped to 2.18, compared with 3.88 when the original Switch hit a similar install base of ~17 million units.
External Storage Options and Pricing
Players who want to keep many titles installed must rely on external microSD Express cards. Prices have risen sharply:
- 512 GB TeamGroup Apex – about $114.99 on Amazon (up from ~$100 in late 2025).
- 1 TB Lexar Play Pro – around $219.99 on Amazon (previously under $190).
These higher costs, combined with the storage shortage, are discouraging some gamers from buying new games.
Nintendo’s Response
Nintendo has begun offering its own branded microSD Express cards, manufactured by Samsung. The 256 GB version is listed for $59.00 on Amazon, but collectors will need multiple cards to match the capacity of larger third‑party options. This move comes as the Switch 2’s launch price sits at $449, already high due to tariff uncertainties and geopolitical factors. With typical game prices ranging from $50 to $80, additional storage expenses could further strain consumers’ wallets and impact Nintendo’s revenue, which still relies heavily on software sales.
