Breaking This New Nintendo Clause Could Make Your Switch 2 “Unusable”

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In simpler terms, with the upcoming launch of the Switch 2 next month, Nintendo has revised its user agreement and privacy policy. While the company outlined a few alterations in the email they sent, one significant modification might have gone unnoticed. The updated US version of the document includes a new provision that allows Nintendo to render your console inoperable if they detect any violations related to “unauthorized use,” or actions such as “bypassing” or “modifying” system settings.

According to Game File’s Stephen Totilo, the terms for Digital Products Licence have been revised. The updated text now states, “You understand that if you do not adhere to the restrictions mentioned earlier, Nintendo has the right to make your Nintendo Account Services and/or the related device completely or partially inoperable.

As a gamer, I understand and accept that I cannot:

1. Share, alter, reverse engineer, rent out, sell, or create new versions of any parts of the Nintendo gaming service.
2. Try to bypass, modify, decrypt, or tamper with the functions or protections of the Nintendo gaming service, using any tools or methods that would cause it to function differently than intended.
3. Install or use unauthorized copies of the Nintendo gaming service.
4. Use the Nintendo gaming service in a way other than as described in its documentation and intended purpose, without Nintendo’s written approval or explicit authorization, unless explicitly allowed by law.

I also acknowledge that if I violate these restrictions, Nintendo has the right to make my Nintendo account and/or device completely unusable.

For individuals who have a Nintendo account based in the UK, it’s important to note that misuse of a Digital Product might lead to the product no longer functioning. (This information is provided by Eurogamer.)

It appears that this could be a fresh strategy by Nintendo to counteract piracy and unauthorized game emulation. Although they haven’t specified the exact implications of their use of the term “unusable,” it seems unlikely to be favorable for individuals found guilty of software piracy or operating an emulator.

Nintendo is well-known for taking vigorous legal action when safeguarding its intellectual property. For instance, they’ve recently instigated a high-profile lawsuit against the creators of Palworld due to perceived similarities with their Pokemon franchise. Additionally, a lawsuit has been brought against gaming accessory manufacturer Genki for alleged trademark infringement, unfair competition, and misrepresentation, as claimed by Nintendo.

In the previous year, Nintendo took steps to address YouTube channels showcasing their games through emulators. They also successfully traced and identified a suspected pirate of the Nintendo Switch.

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2025-05-09 18:33