Do You Have to Pay to Download Games on Nintendo Switch?
The short answer is: mostly, yes. While the Nintendo Switch offers a few avenues for accessing games without directly paying for them, the vast majority of titles available for download on the Nintendo eShop require a purchase. Think of it like a digital storefront – you browse, you choose, and then you pay for the privilege of playing. But let’s dive deeper into the nuances of the Switch’s digital ecosystem to understand the exceptions and various payment models.
The World of Nintendo eShop
The Nintendo eShop is your portal to a world of digital games on the Switch. It’s where you’ll find everything from AAA blockbusters like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Super Mario Odyssey to indie darlings and retro classics. While some games are only available physically, many are exclusively digital, making the eShop an essential resource for any Switch owner.
To access the eShop, you’ll need a Nintendo Account and an internet connection. Creating a Nintendo Account is free, but accessing certain features, such as online multiplayer, requires a Nintendo Switch Online subscription.
Free-to-Play Games
One notable exception to the “you have to pay” rule is the presence of free-to-play games on the eShop. These games, like Fortnite, Apex Legends, and Warframe, allow you to download and play the core experience without any upfront cost. However, they typically rely on microtransactions or in-game purchases for revenue. You might buy cosmetic items, battle passes, or other enhancements that don’t necessarily affect gameplay but offer a more personalized or rewarding experience. While you can enjoy these games without spending money, be aware that the temptation to spend can be strong.
Demos
Another avenue for experiencing games for free is through demos. Many developers offer playable demos of their games on the eShop, allowing you to sample the gameplay and see if you enjoy the experience before committing to a purchase. Demos are a great way to try out different genres and discover hidden gems that might otherwise be overlooked.
Nintendo Switch Online Perks
The Nintendo Switch Online subscription provides a few ways to get games “for free,” although it is still technically behind a paywall.
Classic Game Libraries
A standard Nintendo Switch Online subscription includes access to a library of classic NES and Super NES games. These games are available to play as part of your subscription, offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane for long-time Nintendo fans and a chance to experience gaming history for newcomers. These games include added online functionality so you can compete or cooperate with friends.
Nintendo 64 and Game Boy Advance with Expansion Pack
The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack tier adds even more retro goodness with libraries of Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis games. This tier costs more than the standard subscription, but it provides a substantial collection of classic titles to enjoy.
Game Trials
Occasionally, Nintendo offers game trials to Nintendo Switch Online members. These trials allow you to download and play a full game for a limited time, providing a more extensive experience than a typical demo. If you enjoy the game, you can purchase it with your save data intact.
Purchasing Games
When you do decide to purchase a game, the Nintendo eShop offers several options:
- Direct Purchase with Funds: You can add funds to your Nintendo Account using a credit card, debit card, or Nintendo eShop gift card and then use those funds to purchase games directly.
- Adding Funds During Purchase: If you don’t have enough funds in your account, you can add them during the purchase process.
- Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers: These vouchers allow you to purchase two eligible Nintendo games at a discounted price. They’re a great option if you know you want to buy multiple first-party titles.
Payment Options
- Credit Cards: Major credit cards are accepted on the Nintendo eShop, allowing for easy and convenient purchases.
- Debit Cards: Similar to credit cards, debit cards provide a direct link to your bank account.
- Nintendo eShop Cards: Available at most major retailers, these cards offer a convenient way to add funds to your account without using a credit or debit card. They’re also a popular gift option for Switch owners.
- PayPal: In some regions, PayPal is accepted as a payment method on the Nintendo eShop.
FAQs: Nintendo Switch Game Downloads
1. Is a Nintendo Switch account free?
Yes, creating a Nintendo Account is free. This account allows you to access the Nintendo eShop, manage your profile, and utilize other Nintendo services.
2. Do I need Nintendo membership to download games?
You need a Nintendo Account to access the Nintendo eShop and download games, but a Nintendo Switch Online membership is only required for certain online features and to access the classic game libraries.
3. What do I need to download a game?
You’ll need a Nintendo Switch console, a Nintendo Account, an internet connection, and access to the Nintendo eShop. You’ll also need sufficient storage space on your console or a microSD card.
4. Can you play Nintendo Switch games without a subscription?
Yes, you can play many single-player games and local multiplayer games without a Nintendo Switch Online subscription. The subscription is primarily required for online multiplayer and accessing the classic game libraries.
5. How much does Nintendo online cost per month?
A Nintendo Switch Online individual membership costs $3.99 per month. However, you can save money by purchasing a 3-month or 12-month subscription.
6. How do digital downloads work on Switch?
Once you purchase a digital game, it will begin downloading to your system. You can start playing the game once the download is complete. For pre-ordered games, a non-playable version will be pre-loaded, and you can start playing on the release date.
7. Is Mario Kart free on Nintendo Switch?
No, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is not a free game. However, Mario Kart Tour is a free-to-start mobile game available on iOS and Android devices.
8. Why isn’t Nintendo online free?
Nintendo charges for its online services to maintain server quality and continue to invest in online features and support.
9. Does Switch come with games?
The standard Nintendo Switch bundle does not include any pack-in games. You only get the console, Joy-Con controllers, and accessories.
10. Why do I need a Nintendo Account for switch?
A Nintendo Account is required to access online features, download games from the Nintendo eShop, and manage your profile and save data.
11. How do you get free games on Nintendo Switch Online?
With a Nintendo Switch Online membership, you can access libraries of classic NES and Super NES games. With the Expansion Pack, you get even more libraries with classic Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance and Sega Genesis games.
12. How long is Nintendo online free?
Nintendo occasionally offers free trials of Nintendo Switch Online.
13. How often do you have to pay for Nintendo online?
You can pay monthly, quarterly, or annually for a Nintendo Switch Online subscription.
14. Does Nintendo Switch Online come with games?
Yes, a Nintendo Switch Online membership includes access to libraries of classic NES and Super NES games. The Expansion Pack gives access to libraries of Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance and Sega Genesis games.
15. How many games can you download on Switch?
The number of games you can download depends on the size of the games and the available storage space on your console. The standard Nintendo Switch has 32 GB of storage, but you can expand it with a microSD card.
The Bottom Line
While you’ll typically need to pay to download games on the Nintendo Switch, the console offers a variety of ways to access games, including free-to-play titles, demos, and the classic game libraries included with Nintendo Switch Online. Understanding these options allows you to make the most of your Nintendo Switch experience and discover new games to enjoy.
If you want to explore how games can be used as educational tools, check out the Games Learning Society website. GamesLearningSociety.org is a research community that explores learning through video games.