Last year, Nintendo released a bizarre exercise game for the Nintendo Switch called Ring Fit Adventure, and so far it's been a big hit for the company. Ring Fit Adventure has shipped over 2 million units and its sales are still strong. The game has been in particularly high demand in China, with some credit given to the ongoing coronavirus situation in the country.
It's been noted by video game industry analyst Daniel Ahmad that Chinese re-sellers are buying Ring Fit Adventure from overseas and selling it in China for over $250. According to Ahmad, Ring Fit Adventure is able to fetch such a high price in the region because of three reasons: global shortages, viral videos showcasing the game, and the coronavirus. While some may be confused by how the coronavirus could be impacting the sales of Ring Fit Adventure, Ahmad's explanation makes a great deal of sense.
A Twitter user asked Ahmad how the coronavirus could be increasing the demand for Ring Fit Adventure, and he explained, "People have been stuck at home over the past month. Gaming is one way to pass the time."
Ring Fit Adventure isn't the only video game that's seen an increase in sales because of the coronavirus. Plague Inc. sales in China also spiked because of the virus, and Chinese citizens have been noted to be using video games to connect with each other since it's difficult for many to actually leave their homes at this time.
The coronavirus has had a far-reaching impact on video games so far. Besides causing sale spikes, it's also led to hardware shortages, companies pulling out of events like PAX East, and more. Various esports competitions have also been delayed or canceled due to coronavirus fears.
As far as Ring Fit Adventure goes, it stands to reason that the game's high sales may convince Nintendo to move forward with a sequel. Ring Fit Adventure earned critical-acclaim in addition to its high sales, so it's safe to say that many people would like to see the concept revisited in a future game. Whether or not that game would use the accessories that come with the original Ring Fit Adventure or come up with something completely different remains to be seen, however.
Ring Fit Adventure is available now, exclusively for the Nintendo Switch.