Can I use the same game on two switches?
The answer to this question is a bit complex, as it depends on the type of game and ownership model you have, but in general, you can use the same physical game cartridge on two Nintendo Switch consoles, but you will need to have a separate digital copy or physical copy of the game for each console if you want to play it simultaneously. However, if you have a digital copy of a game, you can only play it on one console at a time, unless you have set up game sharing on your Nintendo Account, which allows you to play games on multiple consoles, but with some limitations.
Understanding Game Sharing and Ownership
To fully understand how to use the same game on two switches, it’s essential to grasp the concepts of game sharing and ownership on the Nintendo Switch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a digital copy of a game I already own on Switch?
With the Nintendo Switch, you can purchase and download a digital copy of a physical game you own, but the physical game does not give you rights to a free digital copy.
Can I share my digital Switch games with family?
Yes, you can gameshare on your Nintendo Switch, allowing you to share digital games with family members or friends, as long as you have a digital copy of the game in your Nintendo Account.
Can you play 8 player Mario Kart with 2 switches?
The only match-ups possible with two Switches are four-player with two players on one Switch each or four players on one Switch and four players on another running entirely separate games.
Do I need 2 copies of Mario Kart Switch for multiplayer?
Yes, you do need one copy of the game for each console to play wireless multiplayer games such as Mario Kart.
Can you use the same Switch cartridges on multiple consoles?
Yes, you can use the same physical game cartridge on multiple consoles, as the save data for games on the Switch is saved to the console itself, not the game cartridge.
Is there a way to share Switch games?
Yes, Nintendo allows you to gameshare on the Switch console, by logging into a friend’s Switch and setting their console as the primary console.
Can two kids share Switch games?
Yes, once you’ve set your primary Switch console, anyone can play any game on that console without needing an online license check.
Can you use Nintendo family membership on multiple switches?
Yes, players using a family membership can access the Nintendo Switch Online service via the same Nintendo Switch system or multiple systems.
What happens if you own a digital and physical copy of a Switch game?
If you have both physical and digital copies of a game, the Switch will play the game from the cart when the cart is inserted, and the save data is stored separately from the game on the Switch’s internal memory.
Do I keep my digital games if I sell my Switch?
Yes, you can log into a new Switch and download all your games and save data that was uploaded from the eShop.
How do digital copies of Switch games work?
Downloadable software that you purchase is tied to your Nintendo Account and can be played on your primary Nintendo Switch console and, under certain conditions, other Nintendo Switch consoles where you link your Nintendo Account.
How many times can you change primary Switch?
A single Switch can be the primary console for as many accounts as you want, but each account can only set one Switch as its primary.
What is the point of Nintendo family group?
A Nintendo Account family group allows up to 8 Nintendo Account users to connect together into one group, with one admin account to manage the group.
How much is the Switch family plan?
The Family Plan costs $34.99 per year and allows the entire family access to Nintendo Switch Online, with the option to add an expansion pack for a total of $79.99 per year.
Does each kid need their own Nintendo Switch?
It depends on how you want them to play, but having separate Switch consoles can prevent fighting and allow each kid to have their own games and play single-player games without taking turns.
Can I have 2 switches on one account?
Yes, you can link your Nintendo Account to multiple consoles, but you can only activate one primary console per Nintendo Account.