Nintendo Switch’s Run On Top Halted As PS4 Dominates May Hardware Sales

Since launching in March, the Nintendo Switch has been dominating the NPD Group's monthly sales charts. Heck, in April Nintendo took the top two spots with the Switch and NES Classic Edition. Well, Nintendo's short reign on top has come to an end.

Yesterday we reported on May's best-selling software (Injustice 2 topped the list), but arguably the bigger news is that the PlayStation 4 has retaken its customary spot atop the hardware charts. NPD doesn't provide specific sales numbers, but it sounds like the Nintendo Switch did well, as it was the "primary catalyst" driving a 7 percent year-over-year increase in hardware spending – the PlayStation 4 just did better.

The Nintendo Switch falling to second place doesn't necessarily reflect a drop in interest, as sales continue to be impacted by a lack of stock. Nintendo managed to get some Switch units on shelves in late April for the launch of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, but the machine was largely missing in action in May, with no major restocks. I have actually seen the occasional Switch in stock in June, so we'll see how things pan out this month.

Sony was no doubt pleased to regain their throne in May, but it doesn't seem like they were too terribly broken up about losing March and April. PlayStation global marketing head Jim Ryan recently had this to say about Nintendo's success:

"I think in many ways this increased [Nintendo] presence in the space is a good thing. It creates conversation, it creates excitement, and certainly having a rejuvenated and energetic Nintendo back, I think it's a great thing for the industry, because I think the industry is better and stronger when Nintendo is strong."

You can check out WWG's PlayStation 4 coverage here, and our latest Nintendo Switch stories right here.

[via GameSpot]