Nintendo Switch becomes fastest-selling console in US history
Platform holder breaks own record set by the Wii over ten years ago
The Nintendo Switch has become the fastest-selling games console in US history.
In a statement released today, Nintendo announced that it has sold more than 4.8 million Switch units in the US since the console's launch in March 2017.
Nintendo also set the previous record over ten years ago with the Wii, which sold four million units in the same time frame.
"Fans across the country have experienced the joy of playing their favorite games at home or on the go," said Reggie Fils-Aime, president and COO for Nintendo of America. "Now that many more people have received Nintendo Switch systems for the holidays, we look forward to bringing them fun new surprises in 2018 and beyond."
Nintendo claims a strong library of first-party games have helped fuel momentum for the console. In the US, more than 60% of Switch owners have Super Mario Odyssey and over 55% own The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
"Not only are these games system-sellers, but they're also two of the highest-rated games in history," said Nintendo.
The company also attributed success to its catalogue of more than 300 third-party games ranging from AAA titles like Fifa 18, Doom, and Skyrim through to a host of indie offerings including Gold Story and Sonic Mania.
Looking forward at the year to come, Nintendo said that Switch owners can expect more Nintendo-published titles such as Kirby Star Allies, Bayonetta, and Yoshi, plus continued support from major publishers including EA, Activision, and Ubisoft.