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If your Switch still has Nintendo’s old primary-console setting, deregister the current primary console, then open Nintendo eShop on the Switch you want to use with the same Nintendo Account. Nintendo’s legacy instructions say eShop will make that console primary automatically. For current digital games on Switch and Switch 2, however, Nintendo uses Virtual Game Cards and Online Licenses instead; the old setting is no longer the general way to manage game access.
Change the primary console using the legacy setting
Nintendo’s legacy instructions for the old system are published by Nintendo UK, so menu names and account procedures may differ by region. If your eShop still shows the setting, follow these steps:
- On the current primary console: Open Nintendo eShop with the Nintendo Account that purchased the games, then deregister that console. See Nintendo UK’s primary-console instructions for the region-specific steps.
- On the intended console: Link the same Nintendo Account to a user profile.
- Open Nintendo eShop on that console using the linked account. Under the legacy workflow, Nintendo says the first eShop access automatically registers it as the primary console. If the option is available, check eShop’s Account Information to confirm the status.
If the old console is lost, stolen, or inaccessible, contact Nintendo Account support for your region. Nintendo UK’s legacy guidance recommends changing the account password if you can no longer access the previous console; do not assume the same remote deregistration steps apply in every country.
Why you may not see a “primary console” option
Nintendo retired the old primary-console system with system version 20.0.0, released April 30, 2025, as it introduced Virtual Game Cards. Nintendo’s current instructions for ordinary digital games and DLC on Switch and Switch 2 focus on loading Virtual Game Cards or enabling Online Licenses. The separate registered-console role Nintendo describes for sharing certain software tickets is not a general primary-console setting for games. Nintendo Japan’s support page explains the ticket-sharing role and transition.
#1 Best Overall
- The next evolution of Nintendo Switch
- One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
- Larger, vivid, 7.9” LCD touch screen with support for HDR and up to 120 fps
- Dock that supports 4K when connected to a compatible TV*
- GameChat** lets you voice chat, share your game screen, and connect via video chat as you play
Choose a current way to access digital games
| Option | Console access | Internet at play time | Who can play |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virtual Game Cards | Up to two linked Switch or Switch 2 consoles per Nintendo Account | No, once the card is loaded | The account holder and other users on the console with the card loaded |
| Online Licenses | Downloaded purchases can be accessed on additional consoles | Yes | The Nintendo Account that owns the content; it cannot use this method to play on multiple consoles simultaneously |
| Legacy primary console | One designated console under the old system | Not stated in Nintendo UK’s legacy instructions | Under the old rules, any user on the primary console could play the account’s digital purchases |
Virtual Game Cards
Nintendo Support says a Nintendo Account can load its Virtual Game Cards on up to two Switch or Switch 2 consoles in any combination. To set up a second console, link the systems once by bringing them close together and connecting them to the internet. After that, you can move cards between the linked systems. A loaded card can be played offline, and other users on that console can play it too. See Nintendo’s Virtual Game Card Guide.
If a card does not appear or load, check that the console has the required system version and internet connection, and that the target console is powered on or asleep and online during loading. If you need access on a third console, Nintendo’s approach is to use Online Licenses alongside the two linked consoles, or change which two consoles are linked. Consult the Virtual Game Card Guide and Nintendo’s multiple-console instructions.
Rank #2
- 6.2” LCD screen
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
- Nintendo Switch is the home of Mario & friends
Online Licenses
To turn this on, link your Nintendo Account to the consoles, then on one console open the user icon from HOME and choose Online License Settings. Enable Use Online Licenses and download the purchased content to each system. Nintendo Australia says this lets the account play downloaded purchases without a Virtual Game Card loaded while the console is connected to the internet. You can combine Online Licenses with Virtual Game Cards on two consoles, but the same Nintendo Account cannot use Online Licenses to play on multiple consoles at the same time. See Nintendo Australia’s Online License instructions.
Physical game cards
For a physical game without DLC, insert the card into the console where you want to play and select the game from HOME. A physical card does not require changing a digital account’s console setting. Nintendo’s multiple-console guide covers this method.
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Rank #3
- Play your way with the Nintendo Switch gaming system. Whether you’re at home or on the go, solo or with friends, the Nintendo Switch system is designed to fit your life. Dock your Nintendo Switch to enjoy HD gaming on your TV. Heading out? Just undock your console and keep playing in handheld mode
- This model includes battery life of approximately 4.5 - 9 hours.
- The battery life will depend on the games you play. For instance, the battery will last approximately 5.5 hours for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (games sold separately)
- Model number HAC 001( 01)
Changing console access does not move save data
Console access settings and save data are separate. To continue a game on another system, transfer its save data or use Save Data Cloud Backup for compatible games. Nintendo Switch Online membership enables cloud backup; it is not required just to change console access settings or use Virtual Game Cards. See Nintendo’s save-data transfer instructions and Save Data Cloud guidance.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- One player can use a Joy-Con in each hand
- Two players can each take one
- Multiple Joy-Con can be employed by numerous people for a variety of gameplay options (additional Joy-Con sold separately)
- Slip a set of Joy-Con into a Joy-Con grip accessory, mirroring a more traditional controller. Or, select an optional Nintendo Switch Pro Controller.
Rank #4
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers.
- 6.2” LCD screen.
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
