Does Nintendo Switch DLC Work on All Accounts? The Definitive Guide
The short answer is: it depends. Nintendo’s DLC (Downloadable Content) policy is straightforward but has nuances depending on whether you’re using the primary console for the account that purchased the DLC or a non-primary console. If the Nintendo Account that purchased the content has the Switch set as its Primary Console, then any user on that console can access the DLC.
Understanding Nintendo Switch DLC Sharing
Navigating the world of digital content on the Nintendo Switch can sometimes feel like traversing a complex game map. With various accounts, primary and non-primary consoles, and the ever-important Nintendo Account, it’s crucial to understand how DLC sharing truly works. Essentially, Nintendo’s system is designed to provide flexibility for families and individuals who share a console, but it also aims to protect digital purchases and prevent widespread unauthorized sharing. The core concept revolves around the relationship between the Nintendo Account that made the purchase and the console designated as its Primary Console. Let’s delve deeper into the mechanics.
The Primary Console Advantage
The most significant advantage in the Nintendo ecosystem lies with the Primary Console. This is the Switch console that you’ve registered as the main console associated with your Nintendo Account. When you purchase DLC on your Primary Console, everyone who uses that console can access and enjoy that DLC, regardless of their individual accounts. This feature is incredibly useful for households with multiple users who want to share content across different profiles. For example, if Mom purchases the Breath of the Wild DLC on her account, and her Switch is set as the Primary Console, then Dad and the kids can also play the DLC on their respective profiles on the same Switch. This is a huge win for families, avoiding the need to repurchase content for each individual.
Navigating the Non-Primary Console
Things get a little different when you start using a Non-Primary Console. A Non-Primary Console is any Switch other than the one you designated as your main console. In this scenario, the rules for DLC access change. While you can still access your purchased DLC on a Non-Primary Console, there are some limitations. Specifically, only the Nintendo Account that originally purchased the DLC can play it on the Non-Primary Console. Other users on that console will not have access to the DLC.
The Importance of an Active Nintendo Account
Another important factor is ensuring the purchasing account remains active and connected to the internet when using a Non-Primary Console. Nintendo performs periodic checks to verify that the account that purchased the DLC is still authorized to use it. If your Nintendo Account loses its internet connection while playing DLC on a Non-Primary Console, your game may be interrupted until the connection is re-established. This is to prevent multiple people from using the same content on different consoles simultaneously.
DLC and Game Cards
It’s crucial to understand the difference between digital DLC and physical game cards. DLC is digitally tied to your Nintendo Account and is not dependent on the game card. Even if you own a physical copy of a game, the DLC you purchase still adheres to the primary and non-primary console rules. This means that even if you lend your physical game card to a friend, they will not be able to access your DLC unless they are playing on your Primary Console under a different account.
Online Membership Requirements
Some DLC, especially membership-exclusive content offered through Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, might require an active subscription. If your subscription lapses, you will lose access to that specific DLC until you renew your membership.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify how DLC sharing works on the Nintendo Switch.
1. Do I have to buy Pokemon DLC for each account?
Only if you’re intending to use multiple Nintendo Switch consoles as Non-Primary Consoles simultaneously. If all users play on the Primary Console of the purchasing account, then no, you do not need to buy it for each account. For Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, the DLC is specific to each game, so if you own both, you need to buy the respective DLC for each.
2. Can you use BotW DLC on multiple accounts?
Yes, on the Primary Console of the account that purchased the DLC. Any user on that console can access it. If you want to use it on another Switch, only the account that purchased it can access it on that Non-Primary Console.
3. Do I need a Nintendo Account for DLC?
Yes, absolutely. All DLC purchases are tied to a specific Nintendo Account.
4. Why isn’t my DLC working on my Switch?
Several reasons could be at play:
- Ensure the account that purchased the DLC is the one being used.
- Check that the console is set as the Primary Console for that account.
- Restart the console.
- Redownload the DLC if necessary.
- Verify your Nintendo Switch Online membership if it’s membership-exclusive DLC.
5. How do I get my DLC on my new Switch?
First, deregister the old Switch as the Primary Console. Then, register the new Switch as the Primary Console for the Nintendo Account that owns the DLC. Finally, redownload the DLC from the eShop on the new console.
6. Does BotW DLC apply to all accounts on a Switch?
Yes, provided the Switch is the Primary Console for the account that purchased the DLC.
7. Can you have DLC on 2 Switches?
Yes, but with limitations. On the Primary Console, all accounts can access it. On the Non-Primary Console, only the purchasing account can. The game will pause if the purchasing account tries to access DLC on another console at the same time.
8. Does DLC save to your Nintendo Account?
Yes, all digital content purchased from the eShop, including DLC, is linked to your Nintendo Account.
9. Do you need Switch Online for Pokemon DLC?
No, a Nintendo Switch Online membership is not generally required for Pokémon DLC, though specific content may require it.
10. Can you buy Zelda DLC separately?
For Breath of the Wild, no, you cannot. The DLC is sold as a bundle.
11. Do you have to buy DLC for both Scarlet and Violet?
Yes, you do. The DLC is game-specific. If you want the DLC for both, you must purchase it twice.
12. Can you play BotW DLC without Internet?
Yes, after it’s downloaded. Breath of the Wild is an offline game once the DLC is installed.
13. Where are the DLC stored on Nintendo Switch?
DLC is stored either on your microSD card (if you have one) or on the Switch’s internal memory.
14. How do you get free DLC on Nintendo Switch?
A Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership gives you access to select DLC at no additional charge.
15. Why can’t I play the Animal Crossing DLC?
You must have progressed far enough in the game. This typically includes building Resident Services, having your own house, and finishing the DIY workshop.
Conclusion
Understanding how Nintendo Switch DLC works is essential for getting the most out of your gaming experience. By grasping the concepts of primary and non-primary consoles, Nintendo Accounts, and the various requirements for accessing content, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Remember to manage your Primary Console settings and keep your account information up-to-date to avoid any hiccups. For more information on game-based learning and educational initiatives in gaming, check out the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. Understanding the nuances of Nintendo’s ecosystem enhances not only your personal gaming experiences but can also inform discussions around digital ownership and access in the broader context of GamesLearningSociety.org.