The Nintendo Switch offers an absolutely incredible value proposition for gamers, that most Nintendo fans have been extremely excited for. The amount of technology and raw gaming performance stuffed inside something so portable is incredible to say the least. So then for such an astounding console in the year of 2017 why in the world are a variety of multi-platform console games so much more expensive in comparison to other console devices?
While cartridges are a fantastic way to store media the issue with Nintendo's solution is one of cost. If a publisher wants to put their game on a 32GB cartridge for the Nintendo Switch it costs 60% more than a regular 50GB Disc for either the PS4 or Xbox One, which is a fairly sizable margin. Now the publisher can do one of two things, either take a hit on profitability or push the cost onto the consumer, which one would you chose?
Thankfully this isn't an issue that's spread too much throughout the device's ecosystem, as only a handful of games have been hit with the average $10 premium. Nevertheless if this trend continues, sales for Nintendo might be in trouble even despite a strong start. Multi-platform games and indie releases are absolutely essential to real in the general audience, but with a growing library of comparatively expensive games, it's up to consumers to decide whether Nintendo continues to rise or fall.
