Corporate Management Policy Briefing: Nine Months Financial Results for Fiscal Year Ending March 2018

The corporate management policy briefing for the nine-month period ending March 2018 outlines Nintendo’s strategic focus on expanding the reach of its intellectual property across hardware, software, and smart-device platforms. The primary objective remains the growth of the user base for Nintendo Switch while maintaining the viability of the 3DS family and leveraging IP through external collaborations. By diversifying touchpoints with consumers, the company aims to sustain long-term engagement and revenue growth.

The Nintendo Switch platform demonstrated significant momentum, surpassing 13 million units in global cumulative sell-through by the end of 2017. Hardware sales in North America, Europe, and Japan accelerated during the holiday season, with North American performance outpacing the launch trajectory of the Wii. Software success was driven by key titles such as Super Mario Odyssey, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, each exceeding 6 million units in sales. These titles have maintained high attach rates, serving as critical drivers for hardware adoption. Future growth strategies include the launch of Nintendo Switch Online in September 2018 and the introduction of Nintendo Labo to reach broader audiences.

The 3DS family continues to serve as an entry-level platform for budget-conscious consumers and children, maintaining stable sales despite the success of the Switch. Meanwhile, the smart-device business focuses on three goals: maximizing IP accessibility, achieving independent profitability, and creating synergy with dedicated gaming hardware. Titles like Fire Emblem Heroes and Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp have successfully engaged diverse demographics, with a new Mario Kart title scheduled for the upcoming fiscal year. Furthermore, the company is expanding its IP footprint through strategic partnerships, including a newly announced animated Super Mario film produced in collaboration with Illumination.