The End of Game Sharing on Nintendo Switch: What’s Behind the Change and What It Means for Gamers
The Nintendo Switch has been a beloved gaming console since its release, offering a unique blend of portability and power. However, a recent update has left many gamers feeling frustrated and disappointed. The latest hardware update for the original Nintendo Switch has closed a loophole that allowed multiple consoles to share a single digital copy of a game for online play. In this post, we’ll dive into the details of this change, explore the reasons behind it, and examine the impact it will have on gamers.
The Loophole Closed
Prior to the update, if a single Nintendo Account was logged in to two separate Switch devices, those devices could both boot up a game owned by that account and play it online together. This loophole allowed families and friends to share games without having to purchase multiple copies. However, with the new update, if one Switch has the game booted up and is playing online, the other is no longer able to join them.
A Workaround, But at a Cost
Eurogamer has discovered a workaround that will allow two Switch systems to play the same game, albeit without online play. To achieve this, users must activate the Online Licenses option in the console settings and send a Virtual Game Card from one Switch to another. While this workaround is available, it’s not without its limitations and drawbacks. For example, users will need to ensure that both consoles have the Online Licenses option activated, which may not be feasible for all users.
The Impact on Gamers
The change has sparked a backlash from gamers, with many expressing frustration and disappointment on online forums such as ResetEra and Reddit. One Reddit user, Synkhe, noted that this update will now force families with multiple Switch systems to buy a copy of a game for each Switch in order to continue playing online. This change will undoubtedly have a significant impact on gamers who rely on game sharing to save money.
Nintendo’s Response
Nintendo has announced a GameShare feature that will be available with the Nintendo Switch 2, which is set to launch on June 5. However, this feature will only be available for certain games and will only work when each Switch console is connected to the same local network. While this may provide some relief for gamers, it’s unclear whether this feature will be enough to mitigate the impact of the change.
Actionable Insights
For gamers who are affected by this change, here are a few actionable insights to consider:
- Consider purchasing a physical copy of the game instead of a digital copy, which may be more cost-effective in the long run.
- Look into game sharing alternatives, such as borrowing games from friends or family members.
- Keep an eye on Nintendo’s future updates and announcements, as they may provide additional solutions or workarounds.
Conclusion
The closure of the game sharing loophole on the Nintendo Switch is a significant change that will have a lasting impact on gamers. While there are workarounds available, they come with limitations and drawbacks. As gamers, it’s essential to stay informed and adapt to these changes. By doing so, we can continue to enjoy our favorite games and consoles while also advocating for changes that benefit the gaming community as a whole.