Unlinking Your Nintendo ID: A Comprehensive Guide
So, you’re looking to unlink your Nintendo ID? It can be a bit of a maze, so let’s cut through the confusion. The straightforward answer is: it depends on what you’re trying to unlink from. Unlinking a Nintendo Network ID (NNID) from a Nintendo Account is possible under certain circumstances, but unlinking a Nintendo Account from a user profile on a Nintendo Switch console is generally not possible without deleting the user profile itself.
Think of it like this: your NNID is like a passport, and your Nintendo Account is like a travel agency. The Switch user profile is like your suitcase – once packed, it’s hard to change the contents without unpacking the whole thing.
Let’s break it down with some real-world scenarios and the steps involved.
Understanding Nintendo’s Account Ecosystem
Before we dive into the “how,” it’s crucial to understand the key players:
- Nintendo Network ID (NNID): This was primarily used on Wii U and Nintendo 3DS systems.
- Nintendo Account: This is the modern account system used on Nintendo Switch and mobile devices. It’s linked to your purchases, online services, and save data.
- User Account (on Nintendo Switch): Each player on a Nintendo Switch console has their own user account. These can be linked to Nintendo Accounts for access to online features.
The relationship between these elements dictates the unlinking process.
Unlinking a Nintendo Network ID (NNID)
The process of unlinking the NNID is primarily relevant if you’re trying to resolve conflicts preventing you from linking it to a Nintendo Account.
Scenario 1: NNID Linked to Multiple Email Addresses
- Problem: You receive an error message stating that your NNID is already linked to another account when trying to link it to a Nintendo Account.
- Solution: This usually means the email address associated with your NNID is also associated with another NNID. The fix is to change the email address linked to the conflicting NNID.
- Access your NNID settings on a Wii U or Nintendo 3DS.
- Change the email address associated with the NNID to one that isn’t linked to any other Nintendo accounts.
- Try linking the NNID to your Nintendo Account again.
Scenario 2: NNID Restricting Off-Device Usage
- Problem: You’re unable to link your NNID because it’s set to restrict usage from PCs and other devices.
- Solution: You need to adjust your NNID settings on a Wii U or Nintendo 3DS.
- Go to your NNID settings on your Wii U or Nintendo 3DS.
- Ensure the setting for “Usage from PCs and Other Devices” (Wii U) or “Non-Nintendo Device Setting” (Nintendo 3DS) is enabled.
Scenario 3: Unlinking NNID from Nintendo Account
- Problem: You wish to disconnect the link between the NNID and Nintendo Account.
- Solution: Select User information, then Linked accounts to view the accounts that are currently linked to your Nintendo Account. To unlink an NNID from your Nintendo Account, click Edit then click the checkmark next to Nintendo Network ID to remove the link.
Unlinking a Nintendo Account from a Nintendo Switch User Profile
This is where things get tricky.
The Harsh Reality: Once a Nintendo Account is linked to a user profile on a Nintendo Switch, there’s no direct “unlink” button. Nintendo’s design philosophy ties the account to the profile quite strongly.
The Only Real Solution: Deleting the User Profile
- Warning: This will erase all save data associated with that user profile on the console itself. If you have cloud saves enabled through Nintendo Switch Online, your saves might be recoverable, but always double-check.
- From the Nintendo Switch HOME Menu, go to System Settings.
- Select “Users” then choose the user profile you want to remove.
- Scroll down to “Delete User”.
- Carefully read the warning message about data loss. If you understand and accept the consequences, proceed to delete the user.
What if I don’t want to lose my saves?
- Consider a System Transfer: If you’re getting a new Switch, a system transfer can move your user profile and save data to the new console. This is often the best option for upgrading.
- Nintendo Switch Online Cloud Saves: If you’re a Nintendo Switch Online subscriber, your save data may be backed up to the cloud. However, not all games support cloud saves.
Other Unlinking Scenarios
Unlinking a Device from Your Nintendo Account:
- Sign into your Nintendo Account on a computer or smartphone.
- Go to “Shop Menu”.
- Tap the + icon in the upper-right corner.
- A list will appear of all linked consoles. Locate the console that you want to remove, and tap the info icon next to it.
- Tap “Unlink”.
Unlinking a Child Account from a Parent’s Account:
- Sign in to the parent’s Nintendo Account.
- Select “Family Group.”
- Select the Nintendo Account you want to release from your account.
- Select “Stop managing this account.”
Deregistering a Nintendo Switch Console:
- Select the Nintendo Account you want to deactivate on the console.
- Select the picture of your icon in the upper-right corner to access your Account Information.
- Scroll down to the Primary Console status.
- Select Deregister twice to confirm.
Why is Unlinking so Difficult?
Nintendo’s approach to account linking is designed to protect user data and prevent unauthorized access to digital purchases. While it can be inconvenient, it’s a security measure. The Games Learning Society examines the evolving relationship between game design, digital rights management, and user experience. You can explore related research at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
FAQs: Your Nintendo Unlinking Questions Answered
How do I unlink my Nintendo Account from a Switch without deleting the user?
Sadly, you can’t. Deleting the user is the only way to “unlink” a Nintendo Account from a Switch user profile.
Can I change the Nintendo Account linked to a user?
No. Once linked, the user account is permanently tied to that Nintendo Account. Deletion is the only workaround.
Why does my Nintendo Network ID say it’s already linked to another system?
This typically means the email address associated with your NNID is linked to multiple NNIDs. You need to change the email address on one of the NNIDs.
What does deregistering a Switch do?
Deregistering a Switch removes its designation as your “primary console.” This allows you to designate another Switch as your primary, granting you access to redownload and play your digital games on that console.
Will I lose my games if I delete a user on Switch?
The digital games remain tied to the Nintendo Account that purchased them. However, they become unplayable on that console unless you relink the purchasing account. This usually means creating a new user and linking your Nintendo Account to that user.
What does linking a Nintendo Account do?
Linking a Nintendo Account unlocks online multiplayer, cloud saves (if you have Nintendo Switch Online), and access to the Nintendo eShop for digital purchases.
Can I play one game on two Switches?
Yes, but not simultaneously with the same account. You can download and play your digital games on multiple consoles, but only one console can be actively playing them using your account at any given time.
How do I delete parental controls?
This depends on how the parental controls are set up. If using the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app, you’ll need to unregister the app from the console. If using Google Family Link, you’ll need to adjust settings within the Family Link app.
Can two parents have parental control on Nintendo switch?
No, the restrictions can only be managed by one Nintendo Account. However, you can link the same Nintendo Account to the application on multiple smart devices. Then, you can manage the restrictions through each device that the Nintendo Account is linked to.
What is the difference between a Nintendo Account and a child account?
A Nintendo Account for a child has stricter privacy settings and parental controls. Child accounts can be created for users aged 0-17 and are managed by a parent or guardian’s Nintendo Account.
Does each child need their own Nintendo Account?
It’s recommended, especially for children 12 and under. It allows parents to manage each child’s access to online features and spending.
What happens if I delete my Nintendo Network ID?
Deleting your NNID will permanently delete all eShop licenses and balances associated with that NNID on Wii U and Nintendo 3DS systems. This is a drastic step with irreversible consequences.
What is my Nintendo ID?
Your Nintendo ID is also known as your Nintendo Network ID. From the HOME Menu, tap Friend List on the left. Your Nintendo Network ID will be displayed in orange lettering, in the top-right corner.
Why can’t I link my Nintendo ID?
The Nintendo Network ID Cannot be linked as it has already been linked on another system or NNID is set to restrict off-device usage.
How do I remove a supervised member from Family link?
Go to g.co/YourFamily. Select the child you want to remove. Select Account info. Remove member. You may need to enter your password. Select Remove.
Navigating the Nintendo Account Landscape
Unlinking your Nintendo ID requires careful consideration of the associated accounts and data. By understanding the intricacies of Nintendo’s account system and following the appropriate steps, you can successfully manage your account connections. Always remember to back up your data and proceed with caution to avoid any unintended data loss.