How to Buy Digital Games on Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Switch is a versatile gaming console that offers a wide range of exciting games across various genres. One of the best features of the Switch is its ability to purchase and download digital games directly to the console. This eliminates the need for physical copies and saves storage space. In this article, we will guide you through the process of buying digital games on Nintendo Switch.
Step 1: Ensure Your Nintendo Switch is Compatible with Digital Games
Before you can start buying digital games, you need to ensure that your Nintendo Switch is compatible with digital purchases. The Switch supports digital games through the Nintendo eShop, which is available on both the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite consoles. To check if your Switch is compatible, follow these steps:
- Go to the Nintendo eShop on your Switch.
- Click on the "Account" tab.
- Click on "System Settings."
- Scroll down to the "System Requirements" section.
- Check if your Switch meets the minimum system requirements for digital games.
Step 2: Create an Nintendo Account
To purchase digital games on the Nintendo eShop, you need to create an Nintendo account. This will allow you to access the eShop and make purchases. Here’s how to create an account:
- Go to the Nintendo eShop on your Switch.
- Click on the "Account" tab.
- Click on "Create Account."
- Enter your email address, password, and other required information.
- Click on "Create Account."
Step 3: Set Up Your Nintendo Account
Once you have created your Nintendo account, you need to set it up. This will allow you to access your account information, including your purchase history and account settings. Here’s how to set up your account:
- Go to the Nintendo eShop on your Switch.
- Click on the "Account" tab.
- Click on "Account Settings."
- Enter your email address, password, and other required information.
- Click on "Save."
Step 4: Purchase Digital Games
Now that you have created your Nintendo account and set it up, you can start purchasing digital games. Here’s how to do it:
- Go to the Nintendo eShop on your Switch.
- Click on the "Account" tab.
- Click on "Purchases."
- Click on "Search for Games."
- Type in the name of the game you want to purchase.
- Click on the game to view its details.
- Click on the "Buy" button to purchase the game.
Step 5: Download and Install Digital Games
Once you have purchased a digital game, you need to download and install it on your Switch. Here’s how to do it:
- Go to the Nintendo eShop on your Switch.
- Click on the "Account" tab.
- Click on "Purchases."
- Click on the game you want to download and install.
- Click on the "Download" button.
- Wait for the game to download and install.
Step 6: Use the Nintendo Switch Online Service
The Nintendo Switch Online service is a subscription-based service that offers a range of benefits, including access to a library of classic NES and SNES games, online multiplayer, and cloud saves. Here’s how to sign up for the service:
- Go to the Nintendo eShop on your Switch.
- Click on the "Account" tab.
- Click on "Nintendo Switch Online."
- Click on "Sign Up."
- Enter your email address, password, and other required information.
- Click on "Sign Up."
Step 7: Use the Nintendo Switch Online Library
The Nintendo Switch Online library offers a range of classic games that can be downloaded and installed on your Switch. Here’s how to access the library:
- Go to the Nintendo eShop on your Switch.
- Click on the "Account" tab.
- Click on "Nintendo Switch Online."
- Click on "Library."
- Browse through the library to find the games you want to download and install.
Table: Nintendo Switch Online Subscription Plans
| Plan | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $3.99/month | Access to classic NES and SNES games, online multiplayer, and cloud saves |
| Standard | $7.99/month | All features of the Basic plan, plus access to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack |
| Deluxe | $14.99/month | All features of the Standard plan, plus access to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, and a free game every month |
Table: Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Access to 30 classic NES and SNES games | Play classic games from the NES and SNES libraries |
| Online multiplayer | Play games with friends online |
| Cloud saves | Save your progress across multiple devices |
| Free game every month | Get a free game every month, chosen by Nintendo |
Conclusion
Buying digital games on the Nintendo Switch is a convenient and cost-effective way to access a wide range of games. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can purchase and download digital games on your Switch and enjoy a vast library of titles. Remember to create an Nintendo account, set up your account, and purchase digital games to get started. With the Nintendo Switch Online service and the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, you can enjoy a lifetime of gaming with your Switch.