How to Download a Purchased Game on Nintendo Switch: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you’ve bought a digital game on your Nintendo Switch, but now you need to re-download it or get it onto a new system. No worries! It’s a straightforward process. Here’s how you do it:

1. Launch the Nintendo eShop: From the Nintendo Switch’s HOME Menu, select the Nintendo eShop icon and tap Open.
2. Access Your Account: On the top-right corner of the screen, you’ll see your user icon. Select it to access your account settings.
3. Navigate to Redownload: Scroll down until you find the option labeled “Redownload“. Select it.
4. Find Your Game: A list of all games purchased or redeemed on that Nintendo Account will appear. Locate the game you want to download.
5. Download: Select the cloud icon next to the game title. This initiates the download. Make sure your console is connected to the internet and has sufficient storage space!

That’s it! The game will now download and install onto your Nintendo Switch. You can monitor the progress on the HOME Menu. It’s important to remember that you need the same Nintendo Account that you originally used to purchase the game to re-download it. This ensures that you are accessing your licensed content. The Games Learning Society can provide great resources for understanding how learning and fun come together in the context of digital content.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Downloading Purchased Switch Games

Here are some common questions and answers to help you navigate the digital world of Nintendo Switch:

Understanding Digital Ownership and Downloads

1. Why can’t I download a purchased game on my Switch? Several reasons could be at play:

   • Insufficient Storage Space: Make sure you have enough room on your console’s internal storage or microSD card. Delete content if necessary.
   • Incorrect Account: You must use the same Nintendo Account that originally purchased the game.
   • Internet Connection Issues: A stable internet connection is essential for downloading games. Check your Wi-Fi.
   • Server Issues: Occasionally, the Nintendo eShop servers might be down for maintenance. Check Nintendo’s website or social media for updates.

2. Can I get a digital copy of a game I already own physically on Switch? Unfortunately, no. Owning a physical copy of a Nintendo Switch game does not grant you a free digital copy. You must purchase the digital version separately if you want it.

3. What happens when I buy a Switch game digitally? Once the purchase is complete, the game will automatically download to the system associated with your Nintendo Account, provided your console is connected to the internet, turned on, or in sleep mode and has sufficient storage space.

4. Are digital Switch games permanent? Yes, digital games are linked to your Nintendo Account ID, allowing you to re-download them as many times as you need, assuming Nintendo continues to support the service. This means they are available until Nintendo decides to shut down the eShop for that console, a situation that has happened with older consoles. You are, in effect, renting rather than owning the games.

5. Can I play digital games on my Switch without internet? Yes, as long as the Switch you are playing on is set as the primary console for the Nintendo Account that made the purchase, and provided the game does not require a persistent online connection. If not set as the primary console, you might need to briefly connect to the internet each time you open the game to verify your license.

6. How long will digital games last on my Switch? As long as your Switch console functions properly and you maintain your Nintendo Account, the digital games will remain accessible. Physical failure of storage media may present a problem, however. Backing up the storage media is important. Remember, games are available as long as Nintendo supports the eShop for the Switch. GamesLearningSociety.org offers many articles and insights into how these games can be valuable learning tools.

Storage, Downloading, and Primary Consoles

7. Do Switch games download to the SD card? Save data is never stored on game cards. Data will be stored on a microSD card if one is inserted. If the microSD card is full, data will automatically be stored in the system memory. You can transfer data manually later.
8. Does my Nintendo Switch need to be turned on to install games? Software and DLC can be downloaded while the Nintendo Switch is in sleep mode, provided it’s connected to the internet and has enough space in the system memory or on a microSD card. Downloads can also be started from your PC or smart device while the console is in sleep mode.
9. Is it better to store games on the Switch or SD card? The system memory generally loads slightly faster. So, if it’s a game with frequent loading, it’s better on system memory. If you want a game to load more quickly, you should use the faster media available, but this is more noticeable for games with a lot of loading than with games that run mostly from memory. The SD card is the second fastest. Physical cartridges are generally slowest.
10. How many games can a Switch hold? The number of games your Switch can hold depends entirely on the storage space available. Digital games can take up a lot of space. The number of games will depend on how much space the games require, and the size of the storage available. A 32GB system may hold around 30 smaller indie titles, but significantly fewer large AAA games.
11. What is the maximum memory card for Nintendo Switch? The Nintendo Switch supports microSDHC and microSDXC cards up to 2TB.
12. Why are Nintendo Switch digital games so expensive? Nintendo’s pricing strategies are influenced by several factors, including demand, production costs, and perceived value. Nintendo games also tend to hold their value well. High demand coupled with Nintendo’s brand recognition allows them to maintain premium pricing.

Physical vs. Digital: Advantages and Disadvantages

13. Is it better to have a physical copy of a game on Switch? The choice between physical and digital comes down to personal preference. Physical copies allow you to resell or lend games, while digital copies are always accessible and don’t take up physical space. Physical games are often cheaper than digital copies some months after release.
14. What is the downside to digital games on Switch? The main drawback is the limited storage space on the Switch. If you primarily buy digital games, you’ll likely need to invest in a microSD card. Additionally, if you ever lose access to your Nintendo Account, you could potentially lose access to your digital games.
15. Do you own the games you buy physically? Yes, if you buy a physical copy, you own that game. With a digital copy, you essentially own a license to play the game. It’s tied to your account and subject to the terms of service of the platform.

These FAQs should help you navigate the digital world of Nintendo Switch and ensure you can always access and enjoy the games you’ve purchased. Remember to manage your storage, keep your Nintendo Account secure, and choose the format that best suits your gaming lifestyle!