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

Nintendo's stock soared following the Switch 2 announcement, while Hideki Kamiya unleashed a torrent of criticism towards those responsible for pre-release leaks. This article delves into Nintendo's financial gains and Kamiya's pointed remarks.

A Positive Market Reaction 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 significant boost after the Switch 2 reveal. Kantan Games, a Japanese market-focused consultancy, noted the positive impact despite prior leaks. Nintendo's average share price in 2024 hovered around $13 USD, gradually climbing as Switch 2 leaks proliferated online. The announcement, however, propelled the price to a peak of $15.77 USD – the highest point of the year.

Toto attributed this surge to investor relief, stating that concerns about a repeat of the Wii U's underperformance (due to over-innovation) had been alleviated. The Switch 2's iterative design, similar to an iPhone upgrade cycle, appeased investors. While some fans expressed dissatisfaction with the name and design, the clear identification as Nintendo's new console is seen as crucial in avoiding a Wii U-like failure.

Despite the positive market response, Toto acknowledged that the leaks significantly diminished the impact of the official announcement. He compared the reveal's impact unfavorably to the original Switch's launch in 2016. The announcement offered limited details; a Nintendo Direct on April 2 is expected to provide specifications, launch titles, and pricing. For more information on the upcoming hybrid console, check out our regularly updated Switch 2 article.

Kamiya's Outrage Over Switch 2 Leaks

Following the announcement, renowned game director Hideki Kamiya (known for Resident Evil, Okami, and Bayonetta) voiced his fury towards those who leaked Switch 2 information on Twitter (X). He issued a strongly worded curse upon the leakers, expressing the disappointment of having the reveal spoiled. He contrasted this with the successful surprise reveal of Okami at The Game Awards. Kamiya believes the leaks were driven by personal gratification and negatively impacted potential opportunities for Nintendo.

Former Nintendo of America employees Kit Ellis and Krysta Yang corroborated Kamiya's sentiments in a YouTube video, highlighting Nintendo's intense displeasure with the leaks.

Leaks significantly harm the gaming industry by diminishing anticipation and potentially creating unrealistic expectations. Nintendo has yet to publicly comment on the extent of the damage caused by the Switch 2 leaks.

The Enigmatic "C" Button

One point of contention among leakers is the mysterious "C" button on the right Joy-Con. Two main theories circulate: communication functionality and mouse control. The "Campus" theory suggests communication features for Nintendo Switch Online subscribers, including group chat, voice chat, and screen sharing. Alternatively, the mouse control theory proposes that the button transforms the Joy-Con into a mouse, enhancing gameplay in titles like first-person shooters. The official announcement provided no clarification, though the depiction of the Joy-Cons sliding on a surface in the reveal trailer has fueled speculation.

The April 2 Nintendo Direct is eagerly anticipated to provide definitive answers regarding the Switch 2's specifications and features.