Unlocking Digital Treasures: Sharing DLC on Your Nintendo Switch Across Multiple Profiles
Yes, you can use DLC (Downloadable Content) on multiple profiles on a single Nintendo Switch console. This functionality hinges on whether the console is designated as the “Primary Console” for the Nintendo Account that purchased the DLC. If it is, all users on that console can access the DLC, regardless of whose account made the purchase. However, the situation gets a bit more nuanced when dealing with multiple consoles and Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscriptions. Let’s dive deeper into the intricacies of DLC sharing on the Nintendo Switch.
Understanding the Primary Console System
The Nintendo Switch operates on a system where each Nintendo Account can designate one console as its “Primary Console.” This designation unlocks several benefits, particularly regarding digital game and DLC sharing.
- DLC Accessibility: When a Nintendo Account purchases DLC and the console being used is set as its Primary Console, all profiles on that console gain access to that DLC. This means that family members or friends using different profiles on the same Switch can enjoy the added content without needing to purchase it separately.
- Digital Game Sharing: Similar to DLC, digital games purchased on a Nintendo Account are also accessible to all users on the designated Primary Console. This fosters a shared gaming experience within a household.
- Offline Play: Even without an active internet connection, users on the Primary Console can access and play downloaded games and DLC associated with the Nintendo Account.
Navigating Multiple Consoles and Non-Primary Consoles
Things get a little different when you start using multiple Nintendo Switch consoles. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
- Non-Primary Console Restrictions: If you are using a Nintendo Account on a console that isn’t its Primary Console, only the Nintendo Account that made the purchase can access its digital games and DLC. This is intended to prevent unauthorized sharing across households.
- Internet Connection Requirement: When using a non-Primary Console, an active internet connection is required to verify the ownership of the digital content. This is because the console needs to communicate with Nintendo’s servers to confirm that the account is authorized to play the game or use the DLC.
- Transferring Primary Console Status: You can change the Primary Console designation, but this process involves deregistering the current Primary Console. Be aware that doing so may require you to redownload your digital games on the new Primary Console.
The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack Caveat
The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack introduces another layer of complexity. This subscription service grants access to a library of retro games (like N64 and Sega Genesis titles) and, in some cases, downloadable content for certain games (like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe).
- Membership Requirement: The downloadable content included with the Expansion Pack can only be played while you have an active subscription. If your subscription lapses, access to the DLC will be revoked.
- Account-Based Access: The Expansion Pack benefits are tied to the Nintendo Account with the subscription or, in the case of a Family membership, each member of the Family Group.
- Internet Check-In: To launch the downloadable content included with the Expansion Pack, an internet connection is generally required for verification purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I share DLC with family on Switch using Family Sharing?
Yes, but with stipulations. On the Primary Console for the purchasing account, all family members can access the DLC. However, regarding the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, the DLC is only available to those within the Family Group who have a paid subscription.
2. How do I designate a Primary Console?
On the Nintendo Switch, open the eShop using the account you want to set as primary. If the console is not currently the Primary Console, you’ll be prompted to register it as such. If it is, you’ll see options for your account information instead.
3. What happens if I deregister my Primary Console?
When you deregister a Primary Console, the digital games and DLC will only be playable by the purchasing Nintendo Account on that console. Other users will lose access until the console is re-designated as Primary.
4. Can I have two Primary Consoles for one Nintendo Account?
No, a Nintendo Account can only have one designated Primary Console at a time.
5. If I buy DLC on a trip, can I play it on my home Switch?
Yes, as long as your home Switch is registered as the Primary Console for the account that purchased the DLC.
6. Can I use my friend’s DLC if they log into my Switch?
If your friend’s account is linked to a console set as primary, then yes, all profiles can access their DLC.
7. I bought the Pokémon Scarlet DLC. Can I use it on Pokémon Violet?
No. The Pokémon Scarlet DLC is only compatible with Pokémon Scarlet. You would need to purchase the Pokémon Violet DLC separately.
8. My DLC isn’t working. What should I do?
First, restart your Nintendo Switch. If that doesn’t work, go to the eShop, select your profile icon, and find the redownload option. Ensure the DLC is downloaded and installed.
9. How do I know if DLC is installed?
Go to System Settings, then Data Management, and then Manage Software. Select the game in question, and you’ll see a list of downloaded content.
10. Can I transfer DLC between two Nintendo Accounts?
No, DLC is tied to the Nintendo Account that purchased it and cannot be directly transferred to another account.
11. Does save data transfer if I switch to a different profile?
Save data is generally tied to the user profile. If you start a game on one profile, your progress won’t carry over to another profile.
12. Can I share my Nintendo Switch Online membership with my family?
Yes, with a Family Membership. This allows up to eight Nintendo Accounts to enjoy the benefits of Nintendo Switch Online.
13. What happens to my DLC if I cancel my Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership?
You will lose access to the DLC content that came with the Expansion Pack subscription, such as the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Booster Course Pass content.
14. Can I share DLC with cross-save games?
DLC licenses generally do not transfer between platform accounts with cross-save functionality. For example, if you have Destiny 2 DLC on PlayStation, it won’t automatically be available on your PC account, even if you use cross-save.
15. Where can I learn more about educational games that can be played on different profiles?
You can learn more about the use of games for educational purposes at Games Learning Society, a leading organization dedicated to advancing knowledge and innovation in games-based learning. You can visit their website at GamesLearningSociety.org
Conclusion
Sharing DLC on the Nintendo Switch across multiple profiles is generally straightforward, thanks to the Primary Console system. Understanding the nuances surrounding multiple consoles and the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack ensures that you and your family or friends can enjoy your digital purchases without unnecessary restrictions. By carefully managing your Primary Console settings and being mindful of account-based subscriptions, you can maximize the value of your Nintendo Switch library.