How do digital download Switch games work?
Digital download Switch games work by allowing users to purchase and download games directly to their Nintendo Switch console through the Nintendo eShop, with the game being tied to the Nintendo Account that made the purchase, and can be played by all users on the primary console. The download process is automatic, and the game can be started as soon as the download is complete, with digital games offering the advantage of faster loading times and convenience, but also requiring sufficient memory space on the console.
Understanding Digital Downloads on Switch
To further understand how digital downloads work on the Switch, it’s essential to consider several key aspects, including game ownership, storage space, and online requirements.
Game Ownership and Storage Space
When you purchase a digital game on the Switch, it is tied to your Nintendo Account, and you can play it on your primary console without any issues. However, if you plan to play on another console, you’ll need to make sure that console is also registered as your primary console or you won’t be able to access your digital library.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are 15 FAQs that provide additional information on how digital download Switch games work:
- Q: Can you play digital download games on Switch without Internet? A: Yes, you can play digital games without an internet connection, but you’ll need to have already downloaded the game, and some features like multiplayer may not be available.
- Q: Do digital games stay on the Switch or the account? A: Digital games are tied to the Nintendo Account that purchased them, and all users on a system can play games purchased by any Nintendo Account that has registered the system as their primary console.
- Q: Is it better to digitally download games on Switch? A: Digital games offer faster loading times and convenience, but physical games can be a better option if you’re looking for bonus content like artbooks or soundtracks.
- Q: Can you share your digital Switch games with family? A: Yes, all users on a system can play games purchased by any Nintendo Account that has registered the system as their primary console.
- Q: Can multiple users play digital games on Switch? A: Yes, multiple users can play digital games on the same primary console, but only the primary console can play digital games without an internet connection.
- Q: Do Nintendo Switch digital games expire? A: No, download codes purchased from retailers do not expire, but download codes given out for promotions may have an expiration date.
- Q: Can you play digital games on multiple Switches? A: Yes, you can link your Nintendo Account to multiple consoles and play digital games on any Nintendo Switch console, but only one console can be set as the primary console.
- Q: What is the downside to digital games on Switch? A: One major downside is that you can run out of space easily, requiring you to purchase more memory storage.
- Q: Is it cheaper to buy Nintendo Switch games online? A: Typically, Nintendo games cost the same whether you buy them physically or digitally, but there may be exceptions and pre-order discounts.
- Q: Do you need to download Switch games if you have the cartridge? A: No, if you have a cartridge, you don’t need to download the game, but you won’t have access to any DLCs or updates without an internet connection.
- Q: Can someone else play my digital Switch games? A: Yes, anyone who uses your primary console can play games you’ve purchased with your Nintendo Account.
- Q: Can you play Mario Kart without internet? A: Yes, Mario Kart is one of the games that can be played without an internet connection, along with other games like Animal Crossing and Super Smash Bros.
- Q: How much space do digital Switch games take up? A: The average game takes up about 10GB of space, and with the 32GB of space on the base Nintendo Switch, you can store around 3 games.
- Q: Is Switch OLED worth it? A: The Switch OLED model is worth considering if you plan on playing in handheld mode and want a better screen, but it may not be worth the upgrade if you already have a Switch.
- Q: Why are digital Switch games so expensive? A: Digital Switch games are expensive due to the exclusivity of the Nintendo Switch platform and the cost of publishing games on the console.
Conclusion
In conclusion, digital download Switch games offer a convenient and fast way to play your favorite games on the Nintendo Switch, with the ability to play games without an internet connection and share them with family members. However, they also have some downsides, such as the need for sufficient memory space and the potential for high costs. By understanding how digital downloads work on the Switch and considering the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision about whether to purchase digital or physical games for your Nintendo Switch.