Nintendo Switch Update Sparks Controversy: Game-Sharing Loophole Closed, But New Features Arrive

A recent Nintendo Switch update has stirred up a mix of emotions within the gaming community. While introducing exciting features, including compatibility with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, the update also closed a previously popular game-sharing loophole, leading to frustration among some users.

The update, which began rolling out following a Nintendo Direct in late March, includes the much-anticipated Virtual Game Card feature for the original Nintendo Switch. However, as reported by Eurogamer, the update also quietly eliminated a method that allowed multiple Switch consoles to share a single digital copy of a game for online multiplayer. Previously, if a Nintendo Account was logged into two separate Switch devices, both could simultaneously play the same game online. Now, only one console can access the game online at a time.

According to Eurogamer, a workaround exists. By activating the “Online Licenses” option in console settings and playing offline on one console, two Switches can still share a game, albeit without online multiplayer. This requires the Switch console that received the Virtual Game Card must play the game offline.

This change has drawn criticism from the community. ResetEra and Reddit users have voiced their concerns, highlighting the increased costs for families with multiple Switch consoles. One Reddit user, Synkhe, lamented, "With two kids, game sharing saved us a lot of money... This update doubles our cost on all games going forward." Game sharing has been a cost-saving grace for families who enjoy playing together.

On the brighter side, the update prepares users for the Nintendo Switch 2 launch on June 5th. As Cameron Faulkner, Polygon’s commerce editor, points out, the update introduces a system transfer option. This feature allows users to upload their Switch's system transfer data to Nintendo's servers, enabling a smooth transition to the new console. The original Switch is then factory reset. This data remains stored for up to a year, giving users ample time to acquire a Switch 2. The backed-up data includes games, DLC, users, save data, screenshots, video clips, and system settings. News data, Bluetooth settings, and time zone configurations are not included.

However, the initial V20.0.0 firmware wasn't without its issues. Some users reported their consoles were unable to boot, displaying error code 2206-1015. Nintendo quickly addressed this with update V20.0.1, which specifically targets this boot-up bug. Users experiencing this error need to apply the update in Maintenance Mode by holding down the volume up (+) and volume down (-) buttons while powering on the device.

In summary, the latest Nintendo Switch update delivers both advancements and drawbacks. It closes a game-sharing loophole, causing frustration for sharing users, but also lays the groundwork for the arrival of the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 and fixes initial boot-up issues. The ability to transfer data seamlessly to the new console is a welcome addition, but the game-sharing restrictions leave some users questioning Nintendo's direction.

What are your thoughts on these changes? Will the loss of game sharing affect your gaming habits? Let us know in the comments below!

• Nintendo
• Nintendo Switch
• Virtual Game Card

Related issues news

What is a virtual game card?

Virtual game cards make digital games even easier to use If you have two systems, you can digitally eject and load games from one system to another—and you can even lend games to members of your Nintendo Account family group. Open the HOME Menu and select Virtual Game Cards.

What is Gameshare Switch?

The GameShare feature is Nintendo's new way of letting you share a single game with other players. The other players don't need to be part of your family account, but you must have a Switch 2 and own the game. You then share the game with the other Switches via local wireless (the other player must be nearby).