Since the Nintendo Switch 2 is the hot new thing in gaming right now, it only makes sense that other companies would be worried about the device eating into their sales. As one of Nintendo’s two main rivals for the past 30 years, Sony has gone head-to-head with Nintendo’s consoles with its PlayStation brand, and while it often comes out on top, times are changing. At last Friday’s business segment meeting, Sony Interactive Entertainment’s CEO, Hideaki Nishino, faced a question about whether Nintendo’s latest console would impact PlayStation’s business. Nishino praised Nintendo for its efforts, but didn’t seem worried by the Switch 2.
“PlayStation 5 is designed for an immersive gaming experience, and this includes the innovative DualSense controller features as well,” Nishino explained. “We believe PS5-level performance is required to achieve a great experience on big screens. And in this way, we have provided a unique offering for players and creators in this current console generation.” He then commented that multi-platform development has sort of leveled the playing field, but that PlayStation remains the best place to play and publish.
Questioning then shifted to what strategies Sony will be employing to maintain its audience over time. One of Nintendo’s biggest strengths is that its games appeal to all demographics, from children to adults, so the company is able to retain players for much longer than its competition. Nishino stated that the PlayStation brand has resonated with players for decades now, and that he hopes PlayStation will continue to provide “the largest range of content available.”
Elaborating further, PlayStation Studios boss Hermen Hulst added, “In addition to our franchises with more, I would call it ‘multi-generational’ fan bases, such as Marvel’s Spider-Man, we also have franchises that appeal to a range of different player segments. Horizon is a good example, it’s been very popular with female players, Astro Bot from our lovely Team Asobi in Tokyo, it’s been a hit with children and adults alike.”
While it’s pretty obvious that these major companies aren’t big fans of one another, it’s nice that Nishino didn’t resort to some console war style insults when talking about Nintendo. Whether or not you want to admit it, the Switch 2 is not intended to be a mega powerhouse gaming console. Its role as a hybrid console is unique in the industry and that is what gives it a leg up on the competition. If players want a more traditional console experience with flashy graphics, PS5 is definitely the way to go. There’s no getting around that.
More Switch 2
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Written by Peter Glagowski
Peter has been a freelance gaming and film critic for over seven years. His passion for Nintendo is only matched by the size of his collection.
