Linking Your Nintendo Account to Your Nintendo Switch: A Comprehensive Guide
So, you’ve got a Nintendo Switch and you’re ready to dive into the vast world of digital games, online multiplayer, and more. But first, you need to link your Nintendo Account to your console. Don’t worry, it’s a breeze! This guide will walk you through the process, step-by-step, and answer all your burning questions along the way.
Step-by-Step: Linking Your Account
Here’s the straightforward method to link your Nintendo Account to your Nintendo Switch:
- Power On Your Nintendo Switch: Make sure your console is powered on and ready to go.
- Navigate to System Settings: From the HOME Menu, select the System Settings icon (the gear icon).
- Scroll to Users: In the System Settings menu, scroll down until you see the Users option and select it.
- Choose Your User Account: You’ll see a list of user accounts on your Switch. Select the user account you want to link to your Nintendo Account.
- Select “Link Nintendo Account”: Within the User Settings, you’ll find the option “Link Nintendo Account”. Select it.
- Sign In or Create an Account: You’ll be prompted to either sign in to an existing Nintendo Account or create a new one. If you already have an account, use your email address and password. If not, follow the on-screen instructions to create a new account.
- Follow the On-Screen Prompts: Once you’ve signed in, follow any additional on-screen prompts to complete the linking process. This might involve verifying your email address or setting up two-factor authentication.
- Confirmation: Once the process is complete, you’ll receive a confirmation message that your Nintendo Account is now linked to your user account on the Nintendo Switch.
Congratulations! You’re now ready to enjoy all the benefits of a linked Nintendo Account, including accessing the eShop, playing online games, and more. Let’s delve into some of the common questions that arise during this process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to help you understand everything about linking your Nintendo Account to your Nintendo Switch:
1. Why can’t I link my Nintendo Account to my Switch?
Several reasons could prevent you from linking your account. First, ensure that the country of residence setting on your Nintendo Network ID (NNID) (if you’re trying to link an older account) matches the country setting of your Nintendo Account. Second, if you’re using an NNID, make sure it’s not set to restrict off-device usage. Finally, double-check your login credentials and internet connection.
2. What does linking a Nintendo Account to another Switch do?
Linking your Nintendo Account to another Switch allows you to access your digital purchases and online services on that console. However, it’s crucial to understand the concept of a primary console. Only one Switch can be designated as your primary console. While other consoles can be linked, they won’t have the same access privileges, such as allowing other users to play your digital games without you being logged in.
3. Should I link my Nintendo Account to another Switch?
Yes, you should link your Nintendo Account to all the Switch consoles you use. This ensures that your game saves are linked to your account, and you can access your purchased games. Keep in mind the primary console designation mentioned above for optimal functionality.
4. Can 2 Switches use the same account?
Yes, but with limitations. You can link your Nintendo Account to multiple Switch consoles, but only one can be your primary console. On your primary console, anyone can play your downloadable content. On non-primary consoles, only you (the account holder) can play your digital games, and you need an active internet connection to verify your access rights each time you launch a game.
5. Can 2 Nintendo Accounts on the same Switch share an online subscription?
Yes, if you have a Nintendo Switch Online family membership. With a family membership, up to eight Nintendo Accounts can enjoy the online service, regardless of whether they are on the same Switch or different consoles. However, standard individual memberships only cover the account that purchased the membership.
6. What happens if I unlink my Nintendo Account from a Switch?
Unlinking your Nintendo Account from a Switch doesn’t delete your account or your purchases. Your account remains active and can be re-linked to another Switch later. However, you won’t be able to access digital games or online services on the unlinked console until you re-link your account.
7. How many Switch users can be linked to a Nintendo Account?
Each Switch console can have up to eight user accounts. Each user account can be linked to a unique Nintendo Account. This allows multiple family members or friends to have their own separate profiles and access their own games and save data.
8. Why can’t other accounts on my Switch play my games?
This is likely because your Switch is not set as your primary console. Only on your primary console can other users play games purchased with your Nintendo Account. To allow others to play your games, designate that Switch as your primary one.
9. Why is my Nintendo ID not linking?
Several reasons can cause this:
- Incorrect Credentials: Double-check that you’re entering your Nintendo Network ID (NNID) and password correctly.
- Region Mismatch: Ensure the region settings on your Switch match the region associated with your NNID.
- NNID Restrictions: Verify that your NNID isn’t set to restrict off-device usage.
10. How do I change my primary account on a Switch?
To change your primary console, access the Nintendo eShop on the Switch you want to designate as primary. Your console will automatically be set as the primary console. If the Switch you want to be the primary is not working properly, you may be able to deregister the primary console by logging into your Nintendo Account on the Nintendo website.
11. How do I play games on a different profile Switch?
If you’re trying to play games on another person’s Switch, you’ll need to log in with your own Nintendo Account. However, remember that you can only play your digital games on a non-primary console if you are logged in and have an active internet connection.
12. How do I share games with another account on Switch?
The most straightforward way to “share” games is by setting the other person’s Switch as your primary console. This allows them to play your digital games even when you’re not logged in. However, be aware that doing so will restrict your access to those games on your own Switch unless you’re connected to the internet.
13. Does each user need their own Nintendo Account?
To fully utilize the online features of the Nintendo Switch, each user should have their own Nintendo Account. This allows them to access online multiplayer, track their own achievements, and manage their own digital purchases. While it’s possible to share an account, it’s not recommended for multiple active players.
14. Are downloaded Switch games linked to account?
Yes, downloaded games are linked to the Nintendo Account that purchased them. This means you can redownload your games on any Switch where you are logged in with that account.
15. Will I lose my progress if I unlink my Nintendo account?
No, you will not lose your game progress if you unlink your Nintendo Account. Your save data is stored on the Switch console itself. Unlinking simply disconnects your account from the console, preventing access to online features and digital games associated with that account until you re-link it. However, if you delete a user account with local save data, that save data will be deleted as well. Be sure to back up your data to the cloud whenever possible using Nintendo Switch Online.
Conclusion
Linking your Nintendo Account to your Nintendo Switch is a crucial step to unlocking the full potential of your console. By following these simple steps and understanding the concepts of primary consoles and family memberships, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience.
For more insights into the world of gaming and learning, be sure to check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. They explore how games can be used as powerful tools for education and skill development.
This guide should help you navigate the process with confidence and make the most of your Nintendo Switch experience!