The University of Osaka Research Center on Ethical, Legal, and Social Issues (Osaka University ELSI Center) has published ELSI NOTE No. 55, “Comparing Japan and US Nintendo Switch 2 Sales Strategies From Economic, Ethical, and Social Perspectives,” written by Fumiko Kudo (Specially Appointed Associate Professor at the Osaka University ELSI Center), Yusuke Nagato (Osaka University ELSI Center Lecturer), and Atsuo Kishimoto (Osaka University ELSI Center Professor).
This ELSI NOTE was written as part of collaborative research between the Osaka University ELSI Center and Mercari’s R&D organization R4D.
Click for the full text (available only in Japanese): https://elsi.osaka-u.ac.jp/research/3897
ELSI NOTE is a series of papers published by the Osaka University ELSI Center that introduces domestic ELSI research and the latest trends in ELSI practices.
Note: ELSI is an acronym standing for “ethical, legal, and social issues.”
Overview of ELSI NOTE “Comparing Japan and US Nintendo Switch 2 Sales Strategies From Economic, Ethical, and Social Perspectives”
Comparing preorder strategies between Japan and the US: In Japan, preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2 used a lottery system, while preorders in the US were on a first-come-first-serve basis. We looked at the economical, ethical, and social factors behind the adoption of these country-specific strategies. Five hypotheses: With the differences in sales methods as our starting point, we used abductive reasoning to present and verify five hypotheses: operational efficiency, reputation, fairness, expectations toward companies, and fan culture. Implications for the secondary market: We analyzed the comprehensive anti-scalping measures in place in Japan, and the phenomena that reinforce these measures, while also briefly examining the nature of the secondary market in each country.
Comment from the author
Fumiko Kudo (Osaka University)
I initially thought to write about this topic after listening to a podcast called “Rebuild,” which is mentioned in footnote 20. I found the differences in perspectives between Japan and the United States fascinating, and wanted to write about it for the ELSI Center. I wrote an initial draft and showed it to Atsuo and Yusuke, who gave me valuable insights into the economical and ethical factors at play and helped shape the note into a timely and comprehensive piece. That said, this is a preliminary study, and I gladly welcome feedback to encourage further research.
For inquiries regarding this research, please use the contact form on the R4D website.