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Can You Play Switch Games on Airplane Mode? A Comprehensive Guide

Yes, you can absolutely play Nintendo Switch games on airplane mode! However, there are some crucial details and limitations you need to be aware of to ensure a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience during your flight. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from setting up your Switch to troubleshooting common issues, so you can game on the go without interruption.

Understanding Airplane Mode on Your Nintendo Switch

Airplane mode on the Nintendo Switch, like on your phone, is a setting that disables all of the console’s wireless communication features. This includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC (Near Field Communication). Airlines require this to prevent potential interference with the aircraft’s sensitive navigation and communication systems. When activated, airplane mode essentially cuts your Switch off from the outside world, which has both advantages and disadvantages for gaming.

The primary advantage is the conservation of battery life. With Wi-Fi and Bluetooth disabled, your Switch won’t be constantly searching for networks or trying to connect to peripherals, thus extending your playtime. However, the disadvantage is that you lose access to any features that require an internet connection.

Key Considerations Before You Fly

Before you take off, it’s vital to prepare your Nintendo Switch properly. Here’s a checklist to ensure uninterrupted gaming:

Download Games in Advance: This is the most crucial step. Flight Mode blocks online features, so any games you want to play must be fully downloaded onto your Switch’s internal memory or a microSD card before you enter airplane mode.
Confirm Game Compatibility: While most single-player games work perfectly offline, some games have online-only components or require periodic online checks. Research your games to ensure they are fully playable offline.
Set Your Primary Console: If you have multiple Nintendo Switch consoles, make sure the one you’re taking on your trip is designated as your primary console for your Nintendo Account. This is essential for playing downloaded games offline.
Charge Your Device: Battery life is critical during travel. Fully charge your Nintendo Switch or Switch Lite before your flight. Consider bringing a portable charger for longer journeys. Remember that the battery life is approximately 4.5 to 9 hours for the standard Nintendo Switch model number HAC-001(-01) and approximately 3 to 7 hours for the Nintendo Switch Lite model number HDH-001.

Setting Up Airplane Mode

Enabling airplane mode on your Nintendo Switch is straightforward:

Open System Settings: From the HOME Menu, select “System Settings.”
Navigate to Airplane Mode: Scroll down the left-hand menu and select “Airplane Mode.”
Turn On Airplane Mode: Select “Airplane Mode” on the right-hand side to toggle it on. You’ll see an airplane icon appear in the upper-left corner of the HOME Menu, indicating that airplane mode is active.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with proper preparation, you might encounter some issues when playing Switch games on airplane mode. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

Game Requires Online Check: Some digital games, particularly those obtained through multiple accounts on the same Switch, may require an internet connection to verify your license. To resolve this, ensure the console you are using is set as the primary console for the account that purchased the game. If not, you may need to deregister and re-register your device as your primary console by logging into your Nintendo account, going to account settings, and deregistering your device. It will prompt you that the next switch you use to go to the eShop will be your primary registered device.
Unable to Access Downloaded Content: This usually occurs when the Switch isn’t set as the primary console. Go to the eShop while connected to the internet, and the system will automatically check if it’s the primary console.
Bluetooth Connectivity Issues: If you want to use Bluetooth headphones, you’ll need to pair them with your Switch before activating airplane mode. Once airplane mode is on, Bluetooth is disabled.

Is Airplane Wi-Fi Good Enough For Gaming?

Generally, airplane Wi-Fi is not good enough for gaming. Most inflight Wi-Fi peaks at just under 10Mb/s. Many gamers would recommend 15Mb/s minimum to game online somewhat comfortably (Depending on the game). Also note that you cannot use the Nintendo Switch’s wireless functions while on the plane, such as connecting to Wi-Fi or playing games with other players.

Exploring Offline Game Options

The Nintendo Switch boasts a vast library of games perfect for offline play. Here are some popular genres and titles to consider:

Role-Playing Games (RPGs): The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, and Xenoblade Chronicles offer hundreds of hours of engaging gameplay.
Adventure Games: Ori and the Blind Forest and Hollow Knight provide captivating stories and beautiful visuals.
Simulation Games: Animal Crossing: New Horizons offers a relaxing and immersive experience, although some online features will be unavailable.
Puzzle Games: Tetris 99 (offline mode) and Picross S Series provide endless hours of brain-teasing fun.
Platformers: Super Mario Odyssey and Rayman Legends offer classic platforming action with vibrant graphics.

Airplane Mode and Battery Life

One of the biggest advantages of using airplane mode is its positive impact on battery life. By disabling wireless communication, your Switch consumes significantly less power, allowing you to play for longer periods without needing to recharge.

To further maximize battery life:

Lower Screen Brightness: Reduce the screen brightness to a comfortable level.
Disable Unnecessary Features: Turn off features like HD Rumble and auto-brightness.
Use Headphones: Headphones consume less power than the Switch’s built-in speakers.

Why does Nintendo Switch need airplane mode?

It will continue to do all that stuff even while in Sleep mode, which means unless you keep it docked all the time, you’ll have that much less battery life available when you wake it up. Simply turning on Airplane mode when you know you don’t need the internet stops all those processes from occurring.

Additional Tips for Traveling with Your Nintendo Switch

Use a Protective Case: Protect your Switch from bumps and scratches by storing it in a hard-shell case. It’s recommended to pack the Nintendo Switch in a protective case to prevent any damage during transit.
Bring Extra Joy-Cons: If you’re traveling with friends or family, bring extra Joy-Cons for multiplayer games.
Consider a Portable Dock: A compact portable dock allows you to connect your Switch to a TV in your hotel room.
Backup Your Save Data: Before you leave, back up your save data to a microSD card or the cloud (if you have a Nintendo Switch Online membership).
Respect Flight Regulations: Always follow the airline’s guidelines regarding electronic devices.

Can you play Switch on airplane? Final Thoughts

Playing your Nintendo Switch on airplane mode can be a fantastic way to pass the time during a flight. By preparing your console in advance, understanding the limitations of airplane mode, and exploring the vast library of offline games, you can transform your travel experience into an enjoyable gaming adventure. So, power up your Switch, enable airplane mode, and get ready for takeoff! Just remember to keep your volume down and be respectful of your fellow passengers. And if you’re interested in learning more about the educational aspects of gaming, be sure to check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why can’t I play my downloaded Switch games on airplane mode?

If you’re experiencing this, it’s likely because the console you’re using isn’t set as the primary console for your Nintendo Account. When you purchase digital games, they are tied to your account. You can only play them offline on the primary console associated with that account.

2. How do I set my Nintendo Switch as the primary console?

To set your Switch as the primary console:

Connect to the internet.
Open the Nintendo eShop.
Log in to your Nintendo Account.
If the console isn’t already the primary one, you’ll be prompted to make it so.

3. What if I have multiple Nintendo Switch consoles?

If you have more than one Switch, only one can be designated as the primary console for your account. If you try to play digital games offline on a non-primary console, you may encounter issues.

4. Can I switch which console is my primary console?

Yes, you can. De-register the current primary console and log in with your Nintendo Account on the new console to make it the primary one.

5. Will turning on airplane mode delete my game progress?

No, turning on airplane mode won’t delete any of your game progress. Your save data is stored on the console’s internal memory or a microSD card.

6. Can I still use amiibo in airplane mode?

Yes, you can still use amiibo in airplane mode, as amiibo functionality doesn’t require an internet connection.

7. What types of games are best for airplane mode?

Single-player, story-driven games with minimal online features are ideal for airplane mode. RPGs, adventure games, and puzzle games are excellent choices.

8. Can I buy new games while in airplane mode?

No, you cannot buy new games while in airplane mode, as it disables Wi-Fi connectivity.

9. How much battery life can I expect from my Switch in airplane mode?

The battery life will vary depending on the model of your Switch and the games you’re playing. However, airplane mode generally extends battery life by 30-50%.

10. Can I use Bluetooth headphones in airplane mode?

No, you cannot connect to Bluetooth headphones once airplane mode is active. Bluetooth is disabled when airplane mode is turned on. You’ll need to use wired headphones.

11. What are some games that do not require Nintendo Switch Online?

There are many games that don’t need Nintendo Switch Online, including:

Fortnite
Pokemon Unite
Rocket League
Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout
Apex Legends

12. Can I leave my Switch on overnight?

Yes, you can leave your Switch on the dock or plugged in directly with the AC adapter overnight, or past the point where the battery is fully charged, without harming the battery.

13. Is it safe to use airplane mode on my phone and Switch during a flight?

Yes, it is safe and generally required by airlines to use airplane mode on your electronic devices during a flight. This prevents interference with the aircraft’s navigation systems.

14. Can I play Animal Crossing on a plane?

Yes, you can play Animal Crossing: New Horizons on a plane in airplane mode. The whole game is pretty much offline mode, however to play online, is just going to others islands (with the exception of local play). So yes, you will be able to enjoy it a lot.

15. What happens if I forget to download a game before my flight?

If you forget to download a game before your flight, you’ll need to wait until you have access to Wi-Fi again to download it. Consider it a good excuse to read a book or take a nap!

Can you play Switch games on airplane mode?