"Ex-PlayStation President on Nintendo Switch 2: 'Expected More Disappointment'"

Former Sony Interactive Entertainment Worldwide Studios president Shuhei Yoshida recently shared his thoughts on the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal during an interview with Easy Allies, and his reaction was notably subdued. Yoshida expressed a sense of mixed feelings about the announcement, suggesting that Nintendo might be straying from its core identity of creating unique experiences through innovative hardware and game design.

According to Yoshida, the Switch 2, while undoubtedly an improved version of its predecessor with a larger screen, more powerful processor, higher resolution, 4K capability, and 120 fps, seems to follow a more conventional upgrade path typically seen in other platforms. He pointed out that the reveal's format, including starting with a hardware presentation, felt less distinctively Nintendo.

Special guest Shuhei Yoshida gets real about the Switch 2 pic.twitter.com/CzZYPnTtue

— Easy Allies (@EasyAllies) April 14, 2025

Yoshida noted that while the Switch 2 is a significant upgrade for gamers who exclusively play on Nintendo hardware, allowing them to experience titles like Elden Ring, it may not be as thrilling for those who also use other gaming platforms. He highlighted the reveal event, which attracted millions of viewers, but pointed out that many of the showcased games were ports from previous generations. However, he singled out "Enter the Gungeon 2" for praise, appreciating its announcement and presentation.

Additionally, Yoshida commended "Drag x Drive" for embodying the essence of Nintendo's creativity. He also touched on the system's pricing, noting differences between Japan and other markets, and expressed a personal disappointment that the Switch 2 did not surprise him as much as he had hoped.

Despite his reservations, Yoshida acknowledged the Switch 2 as a smart business move, likely crafted by talented and intelligent designers. He recognized the system's technical enhancements but felt it played it safe in some areas, potentially missing the quirky charm that Nintendo fans cherish. However, features like mouse controls hint at Nintendo's playful side still being present.

While Yoshida discussed the pricing at length, the actual cost of the Switch 2 in the U.S. remains undisclosed. Nintendo has paused North American pre-orders due to new tariffs announced on the same day as the Switch 2's reveal. With a global launch scheduled for June 5, Nintendo is under pressure to resolve these issues swiftly.