The Nintendo Switch 2 is generating enormous preorder interest in Japan, where the initial batch has sold out.

2.2 million people have applied to buy the new console in Japan so far, which ‘far exceeds’ Nintendo’s expectations. Shortages of the Switch 2 look increasingly likely after Nintendo admitted today that it “cannot fulfill” all of the preorder applications it has already received through its own Japanese store.

Nintendo shares surged Thursday after the gaming giant boasted of higher than expected demand in Japan for pre-orders of its hotly anticipated Switch 2 console. An X post attributed to company president Shuntaro Furukawa published Wednesday said there had been 2.