Can You Have 3 Nintendo Switches on the Same Account? The Definitive Guide

Yes, you can have three (or more!) Nintendo Switch consoles linked to the same Nintendo Account. However, there are some important limitations and considerations you need to understand to make the most of your multi-Switch setup. This guide will walk you through how it works, the restrictions involved, and how to manage multiple consoles effectively. It’s all about knowing the rules of the Mushroom Kingdom!

Understanding the Primary Console System

The core of Nintendo’s digital game sharing system revolves around the concept of a primary console. Your Nintendo Account can only designate one console as its primary console at any given time. This designation unlocks certain benefits and imposes restrictions on other consoles linked to the same account.

On your primary console:

• Anyone using that console can play the digital games you’ve purchased with your Nintendo Account. It’s a full, no-strings-attached sharing system for anyone using that particular Switch.
• No internet connection is required to launch and play your downloaded games. The console knows it’s the primary and grants access offline.

On non-primary consoles:

• Only the Nintendo Account that purchased the digital games can play them. Other users on that Switch cannot access your games unless they log in with your account (which presents a whole host of other problems!).
• An active internet connection is required to launch and play any of your digital games. The console needs to check with Nintendo’s servers to verify your right to play.
• If the internet connection is interrupted, the game will be suspended after a short period of time. This is because the console can no longer verify your ownership.

Implications for Multiple Switches

So, what does this mean for having three or more Switches? Let’s say you have three: a Switch, a Switch OLED, and a Switch Lite, all linked to your Nintendo Account.

• One of those consoles will be designated as your primary. Everyone in your household using that console can play your digital games.
• On the other two consoles, only you (the account holder) can play your digital games, and only when connected to the internet.

This setup works best if:

• One console is used primarily by family members, and that console is set as the primary.
• The other consoles are mainly used by you, the account holder, and you have reliable internet access wherever you play.

Managing Your Primary Console

You can change your primary console as needed. To do so:

1. Deactivate your current primary console. This can be done through the Nintendo eShop on the console itself or remotely through the Nintendo website (if the console is lost or broken).
2. On the new console you want to make primary, access the Nintendo eShop. This will automatically designate that console as your new primary.

Important Considerations:

• You can only deactivate your primary console remotely once per year. If you need to do it more often, you’ll have to do it directly on the console itself.
• Deactivating your primary console will make your digital games unplayable by other users on that console until a new primary is designated.

Save Data and Cloud Saves

One crucial aspect of using multiple Switches is managing your save data.

• Save data is stored on the console itself, not on your Nintendo Account (with a few exceptions). This means that progress on one Switch doesn’t automatically transfer to another.
• Nintendo Switch Online offers cloud saves for many games, allowing you to back up and synchronize your save data across consoles. However, not all games support cloud saves.
• For games that don’t support cloud saves, you’ll need to use the save data transfer feature to move your saves between consoles. This requires both consoles to be nearby and connected to the same network.
• Animal Crossing: New Horizons has its own dedicated save data transfer tools, as the island save data can only reside on one Switch console at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I play the same game simultaneously on two Switches linked to the same account?

No, you cannot play the same digital game simultaneously on two Switches linked to the same account. When you launch a game on a non-primary console, it checks with Nintendo’s servers. If that same game is already running on another console, you’ll get an error message.

2. What happens if I lose my Switch that’s set as the primary console?

You can deactivate your primary console remotely through the Nintendo website. Once deactivated, you can designate a new console as your primary. Remember, you only get one remote deactivation per year, so use it wisely!

3. If I buy a digital game, does everyone in my family need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to play it online?

No. Only the Nintendo Account that owns the game needs a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to play it online on non-primary consoles. On the primary console, anyone can play online using the account owner’s subscription. A Family Membership is often the most cost-effective option for households with multiple players.

4. Can I share physical games between multiple Switches without any restrictions?

Yes! Physical games have no restrictions related to primary consoles or online checks. You can freely swap game cartridges between any number of Switch consoles. However, save data is still stored on the console, so progress won’t transfer unless you use cloud saves (if supported) or the save data transfer feature.

5. How do I know which of my Switches is set as the primary console?

The easiest way is to check the Nintendo eShop. On your primary console, you’ll be able to access your downloaded games without an internet connection. On a non-primary console, you’ll need an active internet connection to launch your digital games. You can also check your account settings on the Nintendo website.

6. What are the benefits of having a Nintendo Account?

A Nintendo Account is free and provides access to various online features, including:

• Downloading digital games from the Nintendo eShop
• Playing online multiplayer games
• Using cloud saves (with Nintendo Switch Online)
• Redeeming My Nintendo points for rewards
• Managing your user profile and settings

7. Do I need a separate Nintendo Account for each of my kids?

It’s recommended to create individual Nintendo Accounts for each of your kids, especially if they are over 12. This allows them to have their own personalized experiences and manage their own save data and online interactions. Parents can create and manage accounts for children under 13 using family groups.

8. Can I transfer my save data from a physical game to a digital version of the same game?

This depends on the game. Some games allow you to transfer save data between physical and digital versions, while others do not. Check the game’s documentation or Nintendo’s support website for specific instructions.

9. What is the difference between archiving and deleting a game on my Switch?

Archiving a game removes it from your console’s storage but keeps the game icon on the HOME Menu. You can redownload it at any time without having to repurchase it. Deleting a game completely removes it from your console, including the icon. You’ll need to redownload it from the Nintendo eShop, but you won’t be charged again.

10. How does save data work with Animal Crossing: New Horizons?

Animal Crossing: New Horizons has a unique save data system. Your island data is tied to a specific console. You can transfer your entire island to a new console using the Island Transfer Tool app (available on the eShop). You can also transfer individual player data, allowing a resident to move to a different island.

11. Is it better to buy physical or digital games for my Switch?

There’s no single “better” option. Physical games can be resold or lent to friends, and they don’t require storage space on your console. Digital games are always available and can be conveniently downloaded, but they are tied to your Nintendo Account and can’t be resold. The best choice depends on your personal preferences and gaming habits. The Games Learning Society explores such decisions in gaming and their implications.

12. Can I play 8-player Mario Kart with two Switches?

Yes! With two Switches and two copies of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, you can connect them via local wireless and play with up to eight players. Each Switch can accommodate up to four players in this configuration.

13. What is a Nintendo Switch Online Family Membership?

A Nintendo Switch Online Family Membership allows up to eight Nintendo Accounts to share the benefits of the online service, including online play, cloud saves, and access to the NES and SNES game libraries. It’s a more cost-effective option for families with multiple Switch users than purchasing individual memberships.

14. How do I get Nintendo Switch Online for free?

Occasionally, Nintendo offers free trials of Nintendo Switch Online. Keep an eye on the Nintendo eShop and Nintendo’s social media channels for announcements. Some games may also include temporary free trials with purchase.

15. Where can I learn more about the educational aspects of video games?

The Games Learning Society (GamesLearningSociety.org) is a great resource for exploring the educational potential of video games. They offer research, resources, and community for educators and game developers interested in using games for learning. You can explore their website for more information at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.

By understanding the primary console system and the limitations involved, you can effectively manage multiple Nintendo Switch consoles on a single account and enjoy your favorite games across all your devices. Happy gaming!