Nintendo's Switch 2 Unveiling: A Stock Surge and Kamiya's Ire

Nintendo's stock soared following the Switch 2 reveal, while Hideki Kamiya unleashed a torrent of criticism against those responsible for pre-release leaks. This article explores the financial implications of the announcement and Kamiya's outspoken reaction.

A Positive Market Response to the Switch 2

As reported by Kantan Games CEO Serkan Toto in a January 16, 2025 VGC interview, Nintendo's share price experienced a notable increase after the Switch 2 announcement. This surge, despite prior leaks, reflects a positive market sentiment. While 2024 saw an average share price around $13 USD, gradually rising with the leaks, the post-announcement peak reached $15.77 USD—a significant high for the year.

Toto attributes this increase to investor relief, fearing a repeat of the Wii U's underperformance. The Switch 2's iterative design, reminiscent of Apple's iPhone strategy, seemingly alleviated these concerns. While some fans express dissatisfaction with the console's name and aesthetic, its clear branding as a successor to the Switch is seen as crucial in avoiding a Wii U-like failure.

However, Toto acknowledges the leaks diminished the impact of the official reveal, stating the announcement lacked the same surprise and excitement as the original Switch's 2016 unveiling. The April 2nd Nintendo Direct is anticipated to provide more comprehensive details on specifications, launch titles, and pricing. Stay updated with our regularly updated Switch 2 articles for the latest information.

Kamiya's Outrage Over Switch 2 Leaks

Following the announcement, renowned game director Hideki Kamiya voiced his strong disapproval of the Switch 2 leaks on Twitter (X). His message was a scathing condemnation, wishing a rather unpleasant fate upon those involved.

This frustration stems from the positive experience of the surprise Okami reveal at The Game Awards, a stark contrast to the Switch 2 situation. Kamiya believes the leaks served only personal gratification, undermining potential benefits from a more controlled announcement. He places responsibility squarely on the leakers, individuals privy to confidential information who chose to release it prematurely.

Former Nintendo of America employees, Kit Ellis and Krysta Yang, corroborated this sentiment in a pre-announcement YouTube video, confirming Nintendo's intense displeasure with the leaks.

The Enigmatic "C" Button

One point of contention among those who leaked information revolves around a mysterious "C" button on the right Joy-Con. Two primary theories have emerged: communication features and mouse functionality.

The first suggests the "C" button (codenamed "Campus") facilitates communication features for Nintendo Switch Online subscribers, including group chat, voice chat, and screen sharing.

The second proposes mouse-like control, transforming the right Joy-Con into a mouse, enhancing gameplay in titles like first-person shooters. The way the Joy-Cons are depicted in the announcement has fueled speculation supporting this theory.

Ultimately, the April 2nd Direct will clarify these uncertainties and provide a comprehensive overview of the Switch 2's capabilities.