Ex-PlayStation Boss Disappointed With Switch 2

Former Sony Interactive Entertainment Worldwide Studios president Shuhei Yoshida recently shared his candid thoughts on the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal - and his reaction wasn't exactly enthusiastic.

During an interview with Easy Allies, Yoshida offered his unfiltered perspective when asked about the Switch 2 announcement:

"I found Nintendo's message somewhat contradictory. In a way, I feel Nintendo might be losing their distinctive identity. Traditionally, they've created revolutionary experiences by designing hardware and software together. The Switch 2, as expected, is essentially an upgraded Switch - larger screen, better processor, higher resolution with 4K/120fps support. Even their presentation style has become more conventional, opening with hardware specs like other platform holders. Their core message of 'we made things better' mirrors what competitors have been doing for years."

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

— Easy Allies (@EasyAllies) April 14, 2025

Yoshida acknowledged the Switch 2's value for Nintendo-only gamers who can now play previously unavailable titles like Elden Ring. However, he expressed reservations for multi-platform owners, noting:

"That showcase reached millions globally - an incredible opportunity to debut new games. Yet most announcements were generational ports. While Enter the Gungeon 2 stood out as genuinely exciting, and Drag x Drive felt authentically Nintendo, I wonder whether this conservative approach reflects Nintendo's direction or third-party choices."

The industry veteran also analyzed the system's regional pricing strategy before concluding:

"Some innovations like camera and mouse controls demonstrate Nintendo's creative spirit remains intact. Yet I can't help feeling personally disappointed - though they've delivered exactly what consumers expected with this 'better Switch'."

Yoshida ultimately recognized the business rationale behind the upgraded hardware, crediting Nintendo's talented engineers. His comments echo ongoing online discussions about Nintendo sacrificing some of its quirky innovation for safer commercial success - though glimpses of the company's playful nature still shine through in certain features.

While Yoshida discussed pricing extensively, the final US cost remains unconfirmed after Nintendo paused North American pre-orders due to unexpected new tariffs coinciding with the announcement. With a global launch set for June 5, Nintendo faces mounting pressure to resolve these logistical challenges before release.