{"id":301585,"date":"2025-07-08T01:50:35","date_gmt":"2025-07-08T01:50:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/?p=301585"},"modified":"2025-07-08T01:50:35","modified_gmt":"2025-07-08T01:50:35","slug":"how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/","title":{"rendered":"How do I share a Switch game with someone?"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_67_1 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#Sharing_the_Fun_A_Comprehensive_Guide_to_Sharing_Games_on_Nintendo_Switch\" title=\"Sharing the Fun: A Comprehensive Guide to Sharing Games on Nintendo Switch\">Sharing the Fun: A Comprehensive Guide to Sharing Games on Nintendo Switch<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#Digital_Game_Sharing_The_Primary_and_Non-Primary_Console_Method\" title=\"Digital Game Sharing: The Primary and Non-Primary Console Method\">Digital Game Sharing: The Primary and Non-Primary Console Method<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#How_It_Works\" title=\"How It Works:\">How It Works:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#Step-by-Step_Guide_to_Digital_Game_Sharing\" title=\"Step-by-Step Guide to Digital Game Sharing:\">Step-by-Step Guide to Digital Game Sharing:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#Important_Considerations_for_Digital_Game_Sharing\" title=\"Important Considerations for Digital Game Sharing:\">Important Considerations for Digital Game Sharing:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#Sharing_Physical_Game_Cartridges\" title=\"Sharing Physical Game Cartridges\">Sharing Physical Game Cartridges<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#How_It_Works-2\" title=\"How It Works:\">How It Works:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#Key_Benefits\" title=\"Key Benefits:\">Key Benefits:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#Important_Considerations_for_Physical_Game_Sharing\" title=\"Important Considerations for Physical Game Sharing:\">Important Considerations for Physical Game Sharing:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#Friend_Codes_and_Adding_Friends_on_Nintendo_Switch\" title=\"Friend Codes and Adding Friends on Nintendo Switch\">Friend Codes and Adding Friends on Nintendo Switch<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#How_to_Add_Friends\" title=\"How to Add Friends:\">How to Add Friends:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\" title=\"Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)\">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#1_Can_I_download_the_same_digital_game_on_two_Nintendo_Switches_simultaneously\" title=\"1. Can I download the same digital game on two Nintendo Switches simultaneously?\">1. Can I download the same digital game on two Nintendo Switches simultaneously?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#2_What_happens_if_I_own_both_a_digital_and_a_physical_copy_of_the_same_game\" title=\"2. What happens if I own both a digital and a physical copy of the same game?\">2. What happens if I own both a digital and a physical copy of the same game?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#3_How_many_times_can_I_change_my_primary_console\" title=\"3. How many times can I change my primary console?\">3. How many times can I change my primary console?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#4_Are_eShop_games_tied_to_my_Nintendo_Account\" title=\"4. Are eShop games tied to my Nintendo Account?\">4. Are eShop games tied to my Nintendo Account?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#5_Can_multiple_users_on_one_Nintendo_Switch_use_my_downloaded_games\" title=\"5. Can multiple users on one Nintendo Switch use my downloaded games?\">5. Can multiple users on one Nintendo Switch use my downloaded games?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#6_Do_both_players_need_a_Nintendo_Switch_Online_subscription_to_play_online_together\" title=\"6. Do both players need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to play online together?\">6. Do both players need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to play online together?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#7_How_many_user_accounts_can_I_create_on_one_Nintendo_Switch\" title=\"7. How many user accounts can I create on one Nintendo Switch?\">7. How many user accounts can I create on one Nintendo Switch?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#8_Do_Switch_games_save_to_the_console_or_the_cartridge\" title=\"8. Do Switch games save to the console or the cartridge?\">8. Do Switch games save to the console or the cartridge?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#9_What_happens_if_I_try_to_play_a_game_on_my_non-primary_console_without_an_internet_connection\" title=\"9. What happens if I try to play a game on my non-primary console without an internet connection?\">9. What happens if I try to play a game on my non-primary console without an internet connection?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#10_Can_I_share_a_digital_game_with_someone_who_lives_in_a_different_country\" title=\"10. Can I share a digital game with someone who lives in a different country?\">10. Can I share a digital game with someone who lives in a different country?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#11_If_I_lend_someone_a_physical_game_will_their_save_data_be_transferred_when_they_return_it\" title=\"11. If I lend someone a physical game, will their save data be transferred when they return it?\">11. If I lend someone a physical game, will their save data be transferred when they return it?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#12_Can_two_people_play_Mario_Kart_8_Deluxe_on_two_different_Switches_with_only_one_copy_of_the_game\" title=\"12. Can two people play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on two different Switches with only one copy of the game?\">12. Can two people play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on two different Switches with only one copy of the game?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#13_Is_it_possible_to_get_a_digital_copy_of_a_game_if_I_already_own_the_physical_cartridge\" title=\"13. Is it possible to get a digital copy of a game if I already own the physical cartridge?\">13. Is it possible to get a digital copy of a game if I already own the physical cartridge?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#14_What_are_the_risks_of_sharing_my_Nintendo_Account_with_someone\" title=\"14. What are the risks of sharing my Nintendo Account with someone?\">14. What are the risks of sharing my Nintendo Account with someone?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#15_Can_I_share_a_game_that_requires_online_play_with_someone_who_doesnt_have_Nintendo_Switch_Online\" title=\"15. Can I share a game that requires online play with someone who doesn&#8217;t have Nintendo Switch Online?\">15. Can I share a game that requires online play with someone who doesn&#8217;t have Nintendo Switch Online?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#Sharing_Knowledge\" title=\"Sharing Knowledge:\">Sharing Knowledge:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/#Conclusion\" title=\"Conclusion\">Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sharing_the_Fun_A_Comprehensive_Guide_to_Sharing_Games_on_Nintendo_Switch\"><\/span>Sharing the Fun: A Comprehensive Guide to Sharing Games on Nintendo Switch<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p>So, you&#8217;re looking to share the joy of your favorite <strong>Nintendo Switch<\/strong> games with a friend or family member? Excellent! Gaming is always more fun when shared. The world of <strong>Nintendo Switch game sharing<\/strong> can seem a bit complex at first, but don&#8217;t worry, I&#8217;m here to guide you through it. There are a few different ways to approach this, depending on whether you&#8217;re dealing with <strong>digital games<\/strong> or <strong>physical game cartridges<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>Essentially, sharing games on the <strong>Nintendo Switch<\/strong> involves either lending your <strong>physical game cartridges<\/strong> or utilizing the console&#8217;s system for <strong>digital game sharing<\/strong> by managing <strong>primary and non-primary consoles<\/strong> associated with your <strong>Nintendo Account<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Digital_Game_Sharing_The_Primary_and_Non-Primary_Console_Method\"><\/span>Digital Game Sharing: The Primary and Non-Primary Console Method<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The most common method involves leveraging the <strong>Nintendo Switch<\/strong>&#8216;s system for managing digital game licenses. This hinges on the concept of a <strong>primary console<\/strong> and <strong>non-primary consoles<\/strong> tied to your <strong>Nintendo Account<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_It_Works\"><\/span>How It Works:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li>\n<p><strong>The Primary Console:<\/strong> Your <strong>primary console<\/strong> is the <strong>Nintendo Switch<\/strong> where your games are freely available to anyone who uses that console, even with different user accounts. Think of it as your &#8220;home&#8221; base.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Non-Primary Consoles:<\/strong> On any <strong>Nintendo Switch<\/strong> that <em>isn&#8217;t<\/em> your primary console, your <strong>digital games<\/strong> can only be played by <em>you<\/em> (the account holder). Furthermore, you&#8217;ll need an active <strong>internet connection<\/strong> to verify your license.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>The Sharing Process:<\/strong> To share your <strong>digital games<\/strong> with a friend or family member, you need to make <em>their<\/em> console your <strong>primary console<\/strong>. This means your <strong>digital games<\/strong> become available to anyone on <em>their<\/em> system.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step-by-Step_Guide_to_Digital_Game_Sharing\"><\/span>Step-by-Step Guide to Digital Game Sharing:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Deregister Your Current Primary Console:<\/strong> On <em>your<\/em> <strong>Nintendo Switch<\/strong>, go to <strong>System Settings<\/strong> &gt; <strong>eShop<\/strong> &gt; <strong>Deregister<\/strong>. This will remove its status as your <strong>primary console<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Make Their Console Your Primary:<\/strong> On <em>their<\/em> <strong>Nintendo Switch<\/strong>, log in with <em>your<\/em> <strong>Nintendo Account<\/strong>. Then, open the <strong>eShop<\/strong>. This automatically registers their <strong>Nintendo Switch<\/strong> as the <strong>primary console<\/strong> for your <strong>Nintendo Account<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Download the Games:<\/strong> On <em>their<\/em> <strong>Nintendo Switch<\/strong> (now your primary console), go to the <strong>eShop<\/strong>, navigate to your account icon, and select <strong>Redownload<\/strong>. You can now download any <strong>digital games<\/strong> purchased with your <strong>Nintendo Account<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Play on Your Console (Now Non-Primary):<\/strong> Back on <em>your<\/em> <strong>Nintendo Switch<\/strong> (now a non-primary console), you can still play the games you&#8217;ve purchased. However, you must be logged in with <em>your<\/em> <strong>Nintendo Account<\/strong> and have an <strong>internet connection<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Important_Considerations_for_Digital_Game_Sharing\"><\/span>Important Considerations for Digital Game Sharing:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Internet Connection is Key:<\/strong> You <em>must<\/em> be connected to the <strong>internet<\/strong> to launch and play <strong>digital games<\/strong> on a <strong>non-primary console<\/strong>. The system needs to verify your license.<\/li>\n<li><strong>One Primary Console at a Time:<\/strong> Only <em>one<\/em> <strong>Nintendo Switch<\/strong> can be the <strong>primary console<\/strong> for a given <strong>Nintendo Account<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Disruptions and Restrictions:<\/strong> While you are using the <strong>digital game<\/strong> in a <strong>non-primary console<\/strong>, the game may abruptly pause while a license check is in progress.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Limited to Two Switches:<\/strong> With two people, this works. If more, you&#8217;ll need to re-configure often.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sharing_Physical_Game_Cartridges\"><\/span>Sharing Physical Game Cartridges<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Sharing <strong>physical game cartridges<\/strong> is much simpler. The process is straightforward because it involves the physical transfer of the game.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_It_Works-2\"><\/span>How It Works:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Simply take the <strong>game cartridge<\/strong> out of your <strong>Nintendo Switch<\/strong> and give it to your friend or family member. They can then insert it into their <strong>Nintendo Switch<\/strong> and play the game.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Benefits\"><\/span>Key Benefits:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>No Account Restrictions:<\/strong> Sharing <strong>physical games<\/strong> doesn&#8217;t involve your <strong>Nintendo Account<\/strong> or any <strong>primary console<\/strong> settings.<\/li>\n<li><strong>No Internet Requirement:<\/strong> The recipient doesn&#8217;t need an <strong>internet connection<\/strong> to play the game (unless the game requires online connectivity for certain features).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Simple and Direct:<\/strong> It&#8217;s the most straightforward way to share a <strong>Nintendo Switch<\/strong> game.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Important_Considerations_for_Physical_Game_Sharing\"><\/span>Important Considerations for Physical Game Sharing:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>One Person at a Time:<\/strong> Obviously, only one person can play the game at a time since there&#8217;s only one <strong>cartridge<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Save Data:<\/strong> <strong>Save data<\/strong> is stored on the console itself, <em>not<\/em> the <strong>game cartridge<\/strong>. This means that each <strong>Nintendo Switch<\/strong> will have its own separate <strong>save data<\/strong> for the game.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Friend_Codes_and_Adding_Friends_on_Nintendo_Switch\"><\/span>Friend Codes and Adding Friends on Nintendo Switch<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Beyond game sharing, you can add friends on <strong>Nintendo Switch<\/strong> to enjoy multiplayer experiences together.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Add_Friends\"><\/span>How to Add Friends:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Access User Page:<\/strong> From the <strong>HOME Menu<\/strong>, select your user icon to access your user page.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Add Friend:<\/strong> Select &#8220;Add Friend&#8221; on your user page.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Choose a Method:<\/strong> You can add friends via:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Friend Code:<\/strong> Exchange your 12-digit friend code.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Local Users:<\/strong> Bring consoles together and send a friend request to nearby users.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Users You Played With:<\/strong> Add users you&#8217;ve recently played with online.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Link to Social Media:<\/strong> Link your <strong>Nintendo Account<\/strong> to social media platforms to find friends.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Can_I_download_the_same_digital_game_on_two_Nintendo_Switches_simultaneously\"><\/span>1. Can I download the same digital game on two <strong>Nintendo Switches<\/strong> simultaneously?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Yes, you can download a game on multiple consoles, but only one can be the primary console for your account. On the non-primary console, you must be logged in and have an internet connection to play.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_What_happens_if_I_own_both_a_digital_and_a_physical_copy_of_the_same_game\"><\/span>2. What happens if I own both a digital and a physical copy of the same game?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>If you have both, the <strong>Nintendo Switch<\/strong> will play the game from the cartridge when it&#8217;s inserted. The system prioritizes the physical copy. Save data is stored independently of the game source.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_How_many_times_can_I_change_my_primary_console\"><\/span>3. How many times can I change my <strong>primary console<\/strong>?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>You can change your primary console as many times as you need. However, remember that you must deregister your current primary console before setting a new one.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Are_eShop_games_tied_to_my_Nintendo_Account\"><\/span>4. Are <strong>eShop<\/strong> games tied to my <strong>Nintendo Account<\/strong>?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Yes, <strong>eShop<\/strong> purchases are tied to the <strong>Nintendo Account<\/strong> that made the purchase. Only one <strong>primary console<\/strong> can be registered per account, but the games can be played by any user on that primary console.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Can_multiple_users_on_one_Nintendo_Switch_use_my_downloaded_games\"><\/span>5. Can multiple users on one <strong>Nintendo Switch<\/strong> use my downloaded games?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Yes, on your <strong>primary console<\/strong>, any user can play the <strong>digital games<\/strong> you&#8217;ve downloaded with your <strong>Nintendo Account<\/strong>. On a non-primary console, only <em>you<\/em> can play those games.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Do_both_players_need_a_Nintendo_Switch_Online_subscription_to_play_online_together\"><\/span>6. Do both players need a <strong>Nintendo Switch Online<\/strong> subscription to play online together?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>In most cases, yes. If you want to play online against each other, each player will need their own <strong>Nintendo Switch Online<\/strong> subscription.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_How_many_user_accounts_can_I_create_on_one_Nintendo_Switch\"><\/span>7. How many user accounts can I create on one <strong>Nintendo Switch<\/strong>?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>You can create up to 8 user accounts on a single <strong>Nintendo Switch<\/strong> console.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Do_Switch_games_save_to_the_console_or_the_cartridge\"><\/span>8. Do <strong>Switch<\/strong> games save to the console or the cartridge?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Save data<\/strong> for <strong>Nintendo Switch<\/strong> games is stored on the console&#8217;s <strong>system memory<\/strong>, not the game cartridge. This applies to both <strong>digital<\/strong> and <strong>physical games<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_What_happens_if_I_try_to_play_a_game_on_my_non-primary_console_without_an_internet_connection\"><\/span>9. What happens if I try to play a game on my non-primary console without an internet connection?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>You will not be able to launch and play most <strong>digital games<\/strong> on your non-primary console without an <strong>internet connection<\/strong>, as the system needs to verify your game license.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Can_I_share_a_digital_game_with_someone_who_lives_in_a_different_country\"><\/span>10. Can I share a <strong>digital game<\/strong> with someone who lives in a different country?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Yes, you can share digital games regardless of location, as long as you manage the primary console settings correctly.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"11_If_I_lend_someone_a_physical_game_will_their_save_data_be_transferred_when_they_return_it\"><\/span>11. If I lend someone a <strong>physical game<\/strong>, will their <strong>save data<\/strong> be transferred when they return it?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>No. Save data is stored on the console, not the cartridge. Their save data will remain on their console, and your save data will remain on yours.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"12_Can_two_people_play_Mario_Kart_8_Deluxe_on_two_different_Switches_with_only_one_copy_of_the_game\"><\/span>12. Can two people play <strong>Mario Kart 8 Deluxe<\/strong> on two different <strong>Switches<\/strong> with only one copy of the game?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>No, for two separate <strong>Nintendo Switch<\/strong> consoles to play <strong>Mario Kart 8 Deluxe<\/strong> together, each console needs its own copy of the game. However, you can play split-screen on a single console with one copy.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"13_Is_it_possible_to_get_a_digital_copy_of_a_game_if_I_already_own_the_physical_cartridge\"><\/span>13. Is it possible to get a <strong>digital copy<\/strong> of a game if I already own the <strong>physical cartridge<\/strong>?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>No, owning the <strong>physical cartridge<\/strong> does not entitle you to a free <strong>digital copy<\/strong>. You would need to purchase the <strong>digital version<\/strong> separately from the <strong>eShop<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"14_What_are_the_risks_of_sharing_my_Nintendo_Account_with_someone\"><\/span>14. What are the risks of sharing my <strong>Nintendo Account<\/strong> with someone?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Sharing your account means sharing access to your payment information and purchase history. Only share with people you trust.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"15_Can_I_share_a_game_that_requires_online_play_with_someone_who_doesnt_have_Nintendo_Switch_Online\"><\/span>15. Can I share a game that requires online play with someone who doesn&#8217;t have <strong>Nintendo Switch Online<\/strong>?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>They will not be able to access the online features of the game without a <strong>Nintendo Switch Online<\/strong> subscription, but they may still be able to play the offline portions of the game if you share a <strong>physical copy<\/strong> or make their console your <strong>primary console<\/strong> for a <strong>digital copy<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sharing_Knowledge\"><\/span>Sharing Knowledge:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The world of gaming extends beyond simply playing; it&#8217;s about learning, collaboration, and community. To further explore the educational potential of games, I encourage you to visit the website of the <strong>Games Learning Society<\/strong> at <strong>https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/<\/strong>. Discover how games can be powerful tools for learning and development! Check out <strong>GamesLearningSociety.org<\/strong> to learn more.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Sharing games on the <strong>Nintendo Switch<\/strong> is a great way to spread the fun and enjoy gaming with friends and family. Whether you&#8217;re swapping <strong>physical cartridges<\/strong> or managing <strong>primary consoles<\/strong> for <strong>digital games<\/strong>, understanding the process ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Happy gaming!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Sharing the Fun: A Comprehensive Guide to Sharing Games on Nintendo Switch So, you&#8217;re looking to share the joy of your favorite Nintendo Switch games with a friend or family member? Excellent! Gaming is always more fun when shared. The world of Nintendo Switch game sharing can seem a bit complex at first, but don&#8217;t &#8230; <a title=\"How do I share a Switch game with someone?\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/how-do-i-share-a-switch-game-with-someone\/\" aria-label=\"More on How do I share a Switch game with someone?\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-301585","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-blog"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/301585","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=301585"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/301585\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=301585"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=301585"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=301585"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}