Understanding Secondary Accounts on Your Nintendo Switch: A Comprehensive Guide

A secondary account on a Nintendo Switch, in the context of game sharing, refers to using a Nintendo Account on a console that is not designated as its primary console. This distinction impacts how and when you can access digital games purchased with that Nintendo Account. On a secondary console, games can only be launched with an active internet connection and when the Nintendo Account used to purchase the game is actively in use on that console. This differs significantly from the primary console, where any user can play downloaded games regardless of internet connectivity.

How Primary and Secondary Consoles Work

The Nintendo Switch uses a primary and secondary console system to manage digital game licenses. This system allows you to play your digital games on multiple consoles, but it’s designed to prevent widespread game sharing outside of a single household. Let’s break down the key differences:

• Primary Console: This is the first console where you access the Nintendo eShop using your Nintendo Account. It allows any user on that console to play your digitally purchased games, regardless of whether you are online or not. Think of it as your “home” console.

• Secondary Console: Any other Nintendo Switch console where you log in with your Nintendo Account is considered a secondary console. On a secondary console, you can still access and play your digital games, but there are restrictions. You must be connected to the internet, and only the account that purchased the game can play it.

This setup enables flexibility, letting you enjoy your games on the go with your secondary Switch, while still allowing family members to access those same games on your primary console at home.

Setting Up a Secondary Account

Setting up a secondary account is simple. The process involves linking your Nintendo Account to a user profile on a Nintendo Switch that isn’t your primary console. Here are the steps:

1. Create a User: On the secondary Switch, go to System Settings > Users > Add User.
2. Link your Nintendo Account: Select “Sign-In and Link.” Follow the on-screen prompts to log in with your Nintendo Account credentials.
3. Download Your Games: Once your account is linked, you can access the Nintendo eShop and redownload any games you’ve previously purchased with that account.

Once these steps are complete, you can play your digital games on the secondary Switch, keeping in mind the online connection requirement.

Benefits and Limitations of Using a Secondary Account

Using a secondary account offers several benefits, but it also comes with limitations:

Benefits:

• Play Your Games Anywhere: Enjoy your digital library on multiple consoles without repurchasing games.
• Game Sharing within a Household: Allows family members to play your games on the primary console while you can still play those games on a secondary console.
• Travel Flexibility: Access your game library while traveling, as long as you have an internet connection.

Limitations:

• Online Connection Required: This is the biggest limitation. You must have an internet connection to launch and play games on a secondary console. Without it, games will not launch.
• Account Specific Play: Only the Nintendo Account that purchased the game can play it on the secondary console. Other users on that console cannot access those games.
• One Primary Console per Account: You can only have one primary console per Nintendo Account. Switching your primary console requires de-registering your current primary console, which can be done through the Nintendo eShop settings or remotely through the Nintendo website.

Is it right for you?

Whether or not using a secondary account setup is right for you depends on your gaming habits and needs. If you frequently travel and want to access your digital library on the go, it’s very helpful. If you share a console with family and want everyone to access your games at home while you play on another system, it is also a beneficial solution. If you only have one Nintendo Switch, or if you primarily play offline, the primary console setup will likely be more suitable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I play the same game on two Switches simultaneously using one Nintendo Account?

No, you cannot play the same game on two Nintendo Switch consoles simultaneously using the same Nintendo Account. When you launch a game on the secondary console, it verifies your account and game license, which essentially “locks” the game to that console for the duration of your play session.

2. How do I switch my primary console?

To change your primary console, you can de-register your current primary console through the Nintendo eShop on that console. You can also do so remotely through the Nintendo Account website, but this option has limitations on frequency. Once de-registered, the next console you use to access the eShop will automatically become your new primary console.

3. What happens if I lose internet connectivity while playing a game on my secondary Switch?

If you lose your internet connection while playing a game on your secondary Switch, the game will likely close. Since the game requires constant verification of your license, an interruption in connectivity will prevent it from continuing to run.

4. Can multiple users on the same Switch use the same Nintendo Account?

While multiple user profiles can exist on a single Switch, it’s generally recommended that each user has their own Nintendo Account. Although technically possible to use one account across multiple profiles, it will create conflicts regarding save data, game progress and online play.

5. Do I need a separate Nintendo Switch Online subscription for each user?

No, you don’t necessarily need a separate Nintendo Switch Online subscription for each user. A Nintendo Switch Online Family Membership allows up to eight Nintendo Accounts to share the benefits of the service. This is more cost-effective than purchasing individual memberships for each user.

6. How many Nintendo Accounts can be linked to one Switch?

Up to eight user accounts can be created on a single Nintendo Switch console, and each user account can be linked to a unique Nintendo Account.

7. Is my save data tied to my Nintendo Account or the console?

Save data is generally tied to the user account on the console. Some games also offer cloud saves through Nintendo Switch Online, which allows you to back up and restore your save data across multiple consoles. This is especially useful if you need to replace your console.

8. Can I play physical games offline on my secondary Switch?

Yes, you can play physical games offline on any Nintendo Switch console, regardless of whether it’s your primary or secondary console. The primary/secondary designation only affects digital games.

9. What if I want to give a digital game to a friend?

Nintendo does not offer a direct way to “gift” digital games that you’ve already purchased. The best way to share a game is to let your friend use your Nintendo Account on their Switch (keeping in mind the primary/secondary console limitations), or purchase a digital code for them from a retailer.

10. How can I tell which of my Switches is the primary one?

You can check which console is your primary one by accessing the Nintendo eShop on any of your consoles. Go to your Account Information within the eShop settings. The “Primary Console” section will indicate whether the console you’re using is your primary one.

11. What are the benefits of linking a Nintendo Account to a user account?

Linking a Nintendo Account to a user account unlocks a wide range of online features, including:

• Accessing the Nintendo eShop
• Playing online multiplayer games
• Downloading updates and DLC
• Using cloud saves (with a Nintendo Switch Online subscription)
• Earning My Nintendo rewards

12. What happens if my Nintendo Account gets hacked?

If you suspect your Nintendo Account has been hacked, immediately change your password and enable two-factor authentication. Contact Nintendo Support as soon as possible to report the incident and regain control of your account.

13. Can I use a secondary account to bypass game restrictions or parental controls?

No, using a secondary account will not bypass game restrictions or parental controls. Parental controls are set at the console level and apply to all user accounts, regardless of whether they are linked to a primary or secondary Nintendo Account.

14. Is it against Nintendo’s terms of service to share my account with friends?

Yes, sharing your Nintendo Account credentials with individuals outside of your immediate household is generally considered a violation of Nintendo’s terms of service. Doing so could result in account suspension or other penalties.

15. Where can I learn more about the impact of video games on learning?

To understand the broader implications of video games, consider exploring resources like the Games Learning Society, an organization dedicated to researching and promoting the educational uses of games. Visit their website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ to delve deeper into this fascinating field.

By understanding the ins and outs of primary and secondary accounts, you can optimize your Nintendo Switch experience and make the most of your digital game library.