Japan is suffering a massive Nintendo Switch shortage

Posted on July 19, 2017

Tweets are emerging from Japan as fans line up in their thousands so they can purchase the ever seemingly successful Nintendo Switch. Some stores are claiming that up to 3000 people are queuing up at any given time in the hopes of purchasing the elusive console. Some stores are so short on the console they’re having to raffle off the Switch in the hope of curbing the masses of enthusiastic people turning up to their stores.

The Nintendo Switch has just surpassed a million units sold in Japan since release. In response to the massive fan outcry, Nintendo has apologised for the shortage and have stated that they will be shipping out more consoles to support the release of Splatoon 2.

Fans have taken to twitter with pictures and maps depicting how long the lines are as they continue to wait to get their hands on one of the now elusive consoles. With the popularity of Nintendo Switch so high at the moment, many fans are curious why there is such a large shortage given the console isn’t region locked.

A translation was provided to Nintendo’s apology statement linked above:

” Thank you very much for your continued patronage of our products.

The ‘Nintendo Switch main unit’ that we released on March 3, 2017 has been in short supply in the entire domestic market since its launch.
We apologize sincerely apologize to our customers and dealers for their inconvenience.

Currently, we continue to ship every week, we are working to deliver more than one product to customers. Also, in July and August,
Including the continued shipment of “Nintendo Switch Splatoon 2 set”, we will increase shipments from this month.

For autumn and beyond, we will continue to work to ensure that as many products as possible can be delivered to our customers towards the end of the year, such as further strengthening our production system, we appreciate your understanding.”