Unleash the Power of Multiple Consoles: A Deep Dive into Secondary Nintendo Switches
Yes, you absolutely can have two (or even more!) secondary Nintendo Switches linked to a single Nintendo Account. The magic lies in understanding how Nintendo manages primary and secondary consoles. While you can only designate one primary console per account, the number of secondary consoles you can link is unlimited. Let’s explore the ins and outs of this multi-console setup.
Understanding the Primary vs. Secondary Nintendo Switch Dynamic
The distinction between primary and secondary consoles is crucial for understanding how your digital games and Nintendo Account function across multiple devices. Your primary console is like your home base. Anyone who uses that console can access and play your digitally purchased games, even without an internet connection.
A secondary console, on the other hand, requires an internet connection to verify your account and game ownership each time you launch a digital title. This is because the secondary console needs to ensure that you’re not playing the same game simultaneously on another device. Think of it as a DRM (Digital Rights Management) check.
Benefits of Owning Multiple Nintendo Switches
Why would someone want multiple Switches? There are several compelling reasons:
- Family Sharing: Multiple family members can enjoy gaming simultaneously without having to share a single console. Each person can have their own save data and progress.
- Portability vs. Home Gaming: Keep one Switch docked at home for big-screen gaming and another for on-the-go fun. This is especially appealing if one is an OLED model for superior screen quality.
- Dedicated Handheld: If you prefer the handheld experience, having a dedicated Switch Lite as a secondary console is ideal.
- Experimentation and Modding: As a user online mentioned, some players like to use one console for safe online play and another for homebrew, emulation, or other modifications without risking a ban.
- Having one at home and in a vacation house. Keep one switch permanently available in your vaction house!
Setting Up Your Secondary Switches
The process of setting up additional Switches as secondary consoles is straightforward:
- Link your Nintendo Account: On each additional Switch, go to System Settings > Users > Add User and link your existing Nintendo Account.
- Access the eShop: Once linked, access the Nintendo eShop on each console using your account. This automatically registers the console as a secondary device.
- Download Your Games: Download any digital games you’ve purchased to each console.
- Internet Connection Required (Initially): Remember, the first time you launch a digital game on a secondary console, you’ll need an internet connection to verify your account.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
While multiple Switches offer undeniable advantages, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Internet Dependency: Secondary consoles rely on a stable internet connection for DRM authentication. This can be problematic when traveling or in areas with unreliable Wi-Fi. There is an grace period of 3 hours but after that, you will be kicked out of the game.
- Game Sharing Limitations: You can’t play the same digital game simultaneously on both your primary and secondary consoles. Nintendo enforces this restriction to prevent unauthorized game sharing.
- Save Data Management: While cloud saves are available for Nintendo Switch Online members, not all games support this feature. You may need to manually transfer save data between consoles for some titles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the use of multiple Nintendo Switches:
1. Can I play the same game at the same time on two different Switches?
No, you cannot play the same digital game simultaneously on both your primary and secondary consoles. However, you can play different games.
2. How do I designate a primary console?
The first Switch you use to access the Nintendo eShop with your Nintendo Account becomes your primary console. You can change this designation later through your account settings on the Nintendo eShop. The guide above explains in more detail How do I make my secondary Switch primary?.
3. What happens if I lose my primary console?
You can deregister your lost console through the Nintendo website or by contacting Nintendo Support. This will allow you to designate a new console as your primary.
4. Can multiple users on the same Switch use my digital games if it’s my primary console?
Yes, anyone who uses your primary console can access and play your digitally purchased games, even if they have their own Nintendo Accounts.
5. Do I need Nintendo Switch Online to play online on my secondary Switch?
Yes, a Nintendo Switch Online subscription is required to play online games on any Switch console, whether it’s primary or secondary.
6. Can I transfer save data between my Switches?
Yes, if you are a Nintendo Switch Online member, you can use the cloud save feature to back up and transfer save data. However, some games do not support cloud saves and require manual transfer.
7. If I buy a physical game, can I play it on both my Switches?
Yes, you can play a physical game on multiple Switches. Save data is stored on the console itself, not the game cartridge.
8. How many Joy-Cons can I connect to a single Switch?
You can connect up to eight Joy-Cons or other compatible controllers to a single Nintendo Switch console simultaneously.
9. Can I use my Nintendo Account on a friend’s Switch?
Yes, you can link your Nintendo Account to a friend’s Switch. However, it will function as a secondary console, requiring an internet connection to play your digital games.
10. What is the offline play grace period on a secondary Switch?
As mentioned in the article, the offline play grace period for a secondary Switch is approximately 3 hours. After this period, the console will require an internet connection to verify your account.
11. Can two Switches share a Nintendo Switch Online Family Membership?
Yes, players using a family membership can access the Nintendo Switch Online service via the same Nintendo Switch system or multiple systems.
12. How many times can I change my primary Switch?
There doesn’t appear to be an explicit limit to the number of times you can change your primary Switch. However, frequent changes might raise flags with Nintendo’s DRM system.
13. What are the benefits of having a secondary Switch Lite?
The main benefits of a secondary Switch Lite are its portability, lower price point, and suitability for handheld-only gaming.
14. Will I lose my Animal Crossing: New Horizons island if I get a new Switch?
No, you will not lose your Animal Crossing island if you get a new Switch. You can transfer your island to the new console using the island transfer tool.
15. Where can I learn more about gaming and education?
For more information on the intersection of gaming and education, visit the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. The GamesLearningSociety.org is a wealth of knowledge.
Conclusion
Owning multiple Nintendo Switches can significantly enhance your gaming experience, offering flexibility, convenience, and the ability to share the joy of gaming with family and friends. By understanding the primary/secondary console dynamic and considering the potential drawbacks, you can make informed decisions and maximize the benefits of your multi-console setup. So go ahead, unleash the power of multiple Switches and elevate your Nintendo gaming adventures!