by Felix Richter, Statista.com
As both Microsoft and Sony just have or are about to release upgrades to their current generation of video game consoles, Nintendo is reportedly nearing the release of the successor to the unbeloved Wii U.
The new console, rumored to be named Nintendo NX, is expected to bridge the gap between home consoles and handheld devices by working as a standalone unit that can still be connected to a TV set.
As our chart illustrates, the new console, rumored to be due in early 2017, could decide the fate of Nintendo’s hardware business. After years of declining sales – the Wii U didn’t even come close to emulating the Wii’s success – Nintendo needs its next console to be a winner. If it isn’t, Mario, Luigi and Nintendo’s countless other beloved characters might soon be virtually homeless.
This chart shows how many video game consoles Nintendo sold since 1998.
You will find more statistics at Statista.