Even though a new Nintendo console is on the horizon, that doesn’t mean people are done with the Nintendo Switch. The hybrid handheld console has an incredible library of games that includes both indie classics and major AAA titles, and it has become one of the most popular Nintendo consoles of all time. more than 143.42 million units sold.
If you are one of the millions of people who own a Switch, you may be wondering how much time you have to enjoy the full functionality of games that use online services like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Super Smash Bros Ultimateor Animal Crossing: New HorizonsWhile the future and logistics behind the rumored Switch 2 are still unclear, we can at least look at Nintendo’s previous practices to see what the company has done in the past and get an idea of how long people will be able to enjoy their games on the Switch.
Will I still be able to play games on my Nintendo Switch when the Switch 2 comes out?
In the past, Nintendo hasn’t prevented people from playing their games offline, even when the company dropped online functionality. You shouldn’t have to worry about being able to continue enjoying your games locally. However, online services can still play a central role in enjoying Nintendo games. They can allow people to visit friends’ islands in Animal Crossing: New Horizons or players competing against people around the world in Mario Kart. Even if you don’t play games online or pay for a Nintendo online subscription service, accessing online features may still affect you, as Nintendo also shut down services like the eShop. After these eShops were shut down, users were unable to purchase or download new games to their device.
How long will Nintendo support online services for the original Nintendo Switch?
As a guide, it is helpful to look at previous consoles, such as the Nintendo Wii U and the handheld consoles of the Nintendo 3DS family. Nintendo launched the 3DS in the US in spring 2011. The company has discontinued the 3DS eShop in 2023 and online services for its games in spring 2024. The game servers for these handhelds were online for about 13 years. The Wii U was released in 2012 and its online and eShop services were discontinued at the same time as the Nintendo 3DS consoles – so about 12 years for that console.
It’s important to note that this example includes devices from before Nintendo’s paid online subscriptions, such as Nintendo Switch Online and Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. Previously, Nintendo console owners didn’t have to pay anything to use online services, and so it’s unclear if the transition from the Switch to the rumored Switch 2 will be any different. Additionally, discontinuance of services sometimes includes exceptions for certain game features.
While we can’t say how Nintendo will handle the transition to the next generation of consoles, the good news is that people will likely be able to enjoy their Nintendo Switch and the full functionality of online services for their favorite games for many years to come. It’s always a sad day when people can no longer download new games, but that day will likely be many years away for the original Nintendo Switch and its owners.
