Nintendo to End Sales of Original Switch in Europe Starting 2027

• July 6, 2026

Nintendo has announced plans to discontinue sales of the original Switch console across Europe starting in 2027. This move coincides with the upcoming release of the next-generation Switch 2 handheld device, which features a replaceable battery, a notable upgrade from the current design.

Transition to the Switch 2 in the European Market

The Japanese gaming giant is preparing to introduce the Switch 2 to EU consumers as the successor to its widely popular hybrid console. While detailed specifications and pricing for the new model have yet to be disclosed, the highlight so far is the inclusion of a removable battery, potentially enhancing the device’s longevity and user convenience.

Meanwhile, the original Switch, which has been a cornerstone of Nintendo’s handheld and home console hybrid approach, will cease to be available for purchase throughout European Union countries starting next year. This step marks a significant shift in Nintendo’s product lineup, aiming to gradually phase out the first-generation hardware in favor of newer technology.

The company has already updated its official European website to reflect these changes, signaling an end to the sales lifecycle of the initial Switch unit within the region. Although there is no indication of a similar timeline for other global markets, the 2027 cutoff in Europe underscores Nintendo’s focus on transitioning its user base to the latest hardware offerings.

The original Switch launched with groundbreaking versatility, allowing players to switch between handheld and docked modes. It has maintained a strong presence in the market due to its innovative design and diverse game library. However, as technology progresses and consumer demands evolve, Nintendo’s decision to halt sales aligns with the broader industry trend of refreshing hardware to keep pace with new features and performance improvements.

By introducing the Switch 2 with a replaceable battery, Nintendo may address one of the common concerns among users of its handheld devices—battery degradation. This change suggests an effort to improve device sustainability and user maintenance.

As the European market prepares for the arrival of the new Switch model, customers and retailers alike will witness the gradual disappearance of the original Switch from shelves. While the company has yet to clarify specifics regarding trade-in programs, support for existing hardware, or detailed launch information for the Switch 2, the planned phase-out starting in 2027 sets a clear timeline for the end of an era in Nintendo’s console history within the region.

Nintendo will stop selling all versions of the original Switch console in Europe beginning in 2027 as it prepares to launch the Switch 2 with a replaceable battery.