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You can’t officially download Nintendo Switch games to a PC. Nintendo says it does not currently offer or authorize a product for playing or downloading its game files on personal computers. The supported way to buy and download a Switch game is through Nintendo eShop on a Switch or Switch 2 console, using a Nintendo Account.
Can you download Switch games on a PC?
No—not through an authorized Nintendo PC download service. Nintendo’s Intellectual Property & Piracy FAQ says it “does not currently offer or authorise for sale any product that allows the play or download of its video game files on personal computing devices.” This describes Nintendo’s current offering; it does not establish whether every third-party PC program can run every game.
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Searches for Switch games hosted on file-sharing services or third-party sites may lead to ROM files. Nintendo describes game downloads from peer-to-peer networks or third-party hosts as unauthorized copies and says uploading and downloading pirate copies is illegal. That is Nintendo’s stated position, not jurisdiction-specific legal advice; laws and individual circumstances vary.
How to download a Switch game the supported way
Use a Switch or Switch 2 console and Nintendo eShop:
#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
- Link your Nintendo Account to the console if it is not already linked.
- Open Nintendo eShop and select the account you want to use.
- Find the game and complete the purchase.
- Download the software to the console and start it there.
Nintendo says digital purchases are tied to the Nintendo Account. Access can also depend on console conditions, such as loading a virtual game card or meeting online-license requirements; check Nintendo’s eShop purchase and download guidance for the applicable details.
What about emulators?
An emulator is software that imitates a console so games can run on another device, such as a PC. Nintendo warns that unauthorized emulators may encourage the use of unauthorized game copies and that some circumvent security measures. Those are Nintendo’s policy statements; they are not a neutral assessment of emulator compatibility or performance, nor a complete legal analysis of every emulator or personal-use situation.
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
The official Nintendo guidance cited here does not establish a supported way to obtain Switch game files on a PC, or which games a PC emulator can run. Whether a particular emulator or use is lawful depends on the applicable jurisdiction and facts. Do not assume that owning a game makes a third-party download authorized.
Can a microSD card make Switch games playable on PC?
No. Nintendo support says Switch downloads can be stored on the console or a microSD card. A card expands storage for the console route; it does not convert a Switch download into a PC game or make it playable on a computer. See Nintendo’s download-storage 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
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)
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.
