Table of Contents

Are Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers Worth It?

Yes, Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers can be an excellent deal, especially if you consistently purchase first-party Nintendo games at full price. They essentially offer a discount on two digital games, but the actual savings depend on the titles you choose. To maximize their value, select two high-priced, recently released games. However, if you primarily buy discounted games or prefer physical copies, the vouchers might not be the best option for you.

Understanding Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers

The Nintendo Switch Game Voucher program allows Nintendo Switch Online members to purchase two digital game vouchers for a discounted price. These vouchers can then be redeemed for eligible digital games in the Nintendo eShop. The program aims to incentivize digital game purchases and provide cost savings for players who frequently buy Nintendo’s first-party titles. However, it’s crucial to understand the program’s nuances to determine if it’s genuinely beneficial for your specific gaming habits.

How the Voucher Program Works

Here’s a breakdown of how the Nintendo Switch Game Voucher program typically functions:

Eligibility: You must be a paid Nintendo Switch Online member to purchase vouchers.
Purchase: Vouchers are bought in pairs. The price for two vouchers is usually less than the combined full retail price of two eligible Nintendo games.
Redemption: Once purchased, you can redeem the vouchers for any of the eligible games available in the Nintendo eShop.
Expiration: Vouchers have an expiration date, usually one year from the date of purchase. You must redeem them before they expire.
Availability: Nintendo periodically offers the voucher program, and it’s not always continuously available.

Maximizing Your Savings

The key to getting the most out of Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers lies in strategic game selection. Aim to use the vouchers on:

New Releases: The newest Nintendo titles typically hold their full price for extended periods. Using vouchers here ensures the highest possible savings.
Full-Priced Games: Focus on games that are consistently sold at full retail price in the eShop. Avoid using vouchers on games you expect to find on sale shortly.
Digital-Only Purchases: If you prefer physical copies, consider whether the convenience of having a digital version outweighs the potential savings from buying physical copies when they are on sale.

Assessing Your Gaming Habits

Before purchasing vouchers, consider these factors:

Frequency of Nintendo Game Purchases: Do you regularly buy new Nintendo games at launch? If so, vouchers are likely a good investment.
Preference for Physical or Digital: If you heavily favor physical copies, the vouchers might not be as appealing.
Budget and Spending Habits: Are you comfortable spending money upfront for the vouchers, knowing you have a year to use them?
Sale Tracking: Are you diligent about tracking game sales and willing to wait for discounts? If so, you might find better deals than the voucher program offers.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the Nintendo Switch Game Voucher program can be beneficial, it’s essential to acknowledge its potential downsides:

Expiration Dates: The vouchers expire, so you need to be sure you’ll use them within the timeframe.
Limited Game Selection: Only specific games are eligible for voucher redemption. Ensure the games you want are included in the program.
Digital-Only: The vouchers are for digital games only, which may not appeal to those who prefer physical copies.
Upfront Cost: You must pay for the vouchers upfront, even if you’re not ready to redeem them immediately.
Sale Potential: Some games eventually go on sale for prices lower than what you’d pay with a voucher, so waiting for sales can sometimes be more economical.
Nintendo Switch Online Requirement: If your Nintendo Switch Online subscription lapses, you won’t be able to purchase or use the vouchers.

Real-World Examples

Let’s consider a practical scenario:

Imagine two new Nintendo games are released, each priced at $59.99. The two-voucher pack typically costs around $99.99. By using the vouchers, you’re effectively paying $49.99 per game, saving $10 per game or $20 overall.

However, if you only plan to buy one of those new games, and the other game you want is frequently on sale for $30, the voucher program becomes less appealing. In this case, buying the games separately, especially waiting for a sale on one, would be more cost-effective.

Is It Right For You?

Ultimately, the decision of whether to purchase Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers depends on your individual gaming habits and preferences. If you consistently buy full-priced, first-party Nintendo games digitally, the vouchers can be a valuable tool for saving money. However, if you prefer physical copies, wait for sales, or aren’t sure which games you want, the vouchers might not be the best option. Carefully weigh the pros and cons to make an informed decision that aligns with your gaming needs and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers?

Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers are a special offer for Nintendo Switch Online members that allows them to purchase two digital game vouchers at a discounted price. These vouchers can be redeemed for eligible digital games in the Nintendo eShop.

2. Who is eligible to purchase Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers?

You must be a paying member of Nintendo Switch Online to purchase and use the vouchers. A free trial membership does not qualify.

3. How much do Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers cost?

The price varies by region, but typically, two vouchers cost around $99.99 USD. This is usually less than the combined full retail price of two eligible Nintendo games.

4. How do I purchase Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers?

You can purchase them directly from the Nintendo eShop on your Nintendo Switch console or through the Nintendo website. Look for the “Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers” option within the eShop.

5. Which games can I redeem Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers for?

The list of eligible games can change, but it generally includes newly released and popular first-party Nintendo games, such as The Legend of Zelda, Super Mario, and Pokémon titles. Check the Nintendo eShop for the current list.

6. Do Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers expire?

Yes, Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers have an expiration date, usually one year from the date of purchase. You must redeem them before they expire.

7. Can I use Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers to pre-order games?

Yes, you can often use the vouchers to pre-order eligible games that are not yet released. This is a great way to lock in a discount on upcoming titles.

8. Can I use Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers on games that are already on sale?

While technically possible, it’s generally not recommended. The vouchers are best used on games at full price. If a game is already on sale, the discounted price might be lower than the effective cost of using a voucher.

9. What happens if I lose my Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers?

The vouchers are tied to your Nintendo Account. As long as you remember your login information, you can access and redeem them through the Nintendo eShop. You do not receive a physical voucher.

10. Can I return or get a refund for Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers?

Generally, Nintendo does not offer refunds for purchased game vouchers, so be sure you intend to use them before buying.

11. Is it better to buy physical copies of games instead of using vouchers for digital versions?

This depends on your preference. Physical copies can be resold later, but digital versions offer the convenience of not having to switch cartridges. Consider the long-term value and your personal preferences.

12. What if I only want one of the games eligible for the vouchers?

The vouchers are sold in pairs, so you’ll need to find a second eligible game to redeem them. If you’re only interested in one game, the vouchers might not be the best value.

13. Are Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers available all the time?

No, the voucher program is not always available. Nintendo periodically offers it for a limited time. Keep an eye on Nintendo’s website or the eShop for announcements.

14. Can I gift Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers to someone else?

No, Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers are tied to your Nintendo Account and cannot be transferred or gifted to another user.

15. How do I check the expiration date of my Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers?

You can check the expiration date in the Nintendo eShop under your account information, specifically in the section related to Nintendo Switch Online. The details of your voucher purchases, including expiration dates, will be displayed there.

Are the Nintendo vouchers worth it?