Buy Nintendo Switch Games Online: Easy Guide
So, you've got your Nintendo Switch, and you're ready to dive into some awesome games, right? But instead of hitting up the store, you're thinking of buying games online. Great choice! It's super convenient, and you can often find some sweet deals. Let's walk through how to snag those digital games and get playing ASAP.
Why Buy Digital Games on Your Nintendo Switch?
Before we get into the how-to, let's chat about why buying digital games is a smart move. First off, convenience is king. You can buy games from the comfort of your couch, no need to venture out. Think about those rainy days or when you just don't feel like putting on pants. Plus, digital games mean no physical cartridges to keep track of – your game library is always with you on your Switch. Another huge perk is pre-loading. You can buy a game before it's even released and have it ready to play the second it drops. Talk about being ahead of the game! Also, keep an eye out for sales. The Nintendo eShop frequently has discounts and special offers, so you can save some serious cash. Digital also allows you to game share with family and friends!
Setting Up Your Nintendo Account
Okay, first things first, you'll need a Nintendo Account. If you already have one, sweet! You can skip this step. If not, no worries, it's a piece of cake to set up. Just head to the Nintendo website on your computer or phone and follow the prompts to create an account.
Here's what you'll need:
- An email address
- A birthdate
- A username and password
Make sure to verify your email address, and boom, you're good to go. Your Nintendo Account is your key to the eShop, so keep those login details safe. A Nintendo Account ensures all your purchases are tied to you, so even if you get a new switch, you can recover all of your purchases.
Adding Funds to Your Nintendo eShop Account
Now that you've got your Nintendo Account sorted, it's time to add some funds so you can actually buy those games. There are a few ways to do this, and I will tell you the easiest ways to load up! The most common is using a credit or debit card directly on your Switch. Just go to the eShop, select "Add Funds," and enter your card details. Easy peasy! You can also use Nintendo eShop gift cards, which you can buy at most major retailers or online. Just scratch off the back to reveal the code and enter it in the eShop. These are great for gifting or if you prefer not to use your credit card directly. Alternatively, you can link your PayPal account to your Nintendo Account for another convenient payment option. Choose whichever method works best for you, and get ready to shop!
Browsing the Nintendo eShop
Alright, with funds in hand, it's time to hit the Nintendo eShop. From your Switch's home screen, tap the eShop icon – it looks like a little shopping bag. Once you're in, you'll find a treasure trove of games. The eShop is pretty user-friendly. You can browse by new releases, best sellers, or specific genres. Feeling like an RPG? Or maybe a platformer? Just filter your search to find what you're in the mood for. Keep an eye out for the "Deals" section – you might just stumble upon a hidden gem at a discounted price. Who doesn't love a good bargain? You can also use the search bar to find a specific game if you know exactly what you want. Happy hunting! The Nintendo eShop is always being updated with new games, so make sure to check back often!
Purchasing and Downloading Games
Found a game you like? Sweet! Now, let's get it downloaded. Tap on the game's icon to see more details, like screenshots, trailers, and a description. If you're sold, hit that "Purchase" button. You'll be prompted to confirm your payment method and complete the transaction. Once the purchase is confirmed, the game will start downloading automatically. You can check the download progress on your home screen. Just keep an eye on that little progress bar. Depending on your internet speed and the size of the game, it might take a few minutes or a bit longer. Once it's done, the game icon will appear on your home screen, ready to launch. Get ready to play! You can start playing as soon as it is downloaded and avoid the store all together!
Managing Your Digital Game Library
So, you've bought a bunch of digital games – awesome! Now, let's talk about managing your library. Your downloaded games will appear on your Switch's home screen, but if you've got a ton of them, it can get a bit cluttered. You can organize your games by creating folders or archiving games you're not currently playing. To archive a game, just highlight it on the home screen, press the plus (+) or minus (-) button, and select "Archive." This removes the game icon from your home screen but keeps the game data on your system or microSD card. Don't worry, you can always re-download it later. To re-download a game, just go to the eShop, find the game in your purchase history, and hit that download button again. Managing your library keeps everything tidy and makes it easier to find the games you want to play.
Benefits of Nintendo Switch Online
While you're buying games online, it's worth mentioning Nintendo Switch Online. This is a subscription service that unlocks a bunch of extra features. Think of it as a VIP pass for your Switch. With Nintendo Switch Online, you can play games online with friends, access a library of classic NES and SNES games, and back up your save data to the cloud. That's a lifesaver if anything ever happens to your Switch. There are different membership options available, so you can choose the one that fits your needs. If you're serious about gaming on your Switch, Nintendo Switch Online is definitely worth considering. Cloud saves protect your save data in case your switch breaks!
Tips for Saving Money on Digital Games
Alright, let's talk about saving some dough. Buying digital games can add up, but there are ways to keep your wallet happy. First off, keep an eye on the Nintendo eShop for sales and discounts. They often have promotions and special offers, so you can snag games for a fraction of the price. Another tip is to buy digital games in bundles or collections. You can often get more bang for your buck this way. Also, consider sharing games with family or friends. Some games allow multiple profiles to play on the same console, so you can split the cost. Finally, don't be afraid to wait for a sale. Most games eventually go on sale, so if you're patient, you can save a ton of money. Happy saving! If you are a frequent purchaser on the Nintendo eShop, consider signing up for Nintendo rewards to get special deals!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Okay, let's be real – sometimes things don't go as planned. If you're having trouble buying or downloading games, don't panic. First, check your internet connection. A stable connection is key. If your internet is working fine, try restarting your Switch. Sometimes a simple reboot can fix minor glitches. If you're still having issues, check the Nintendo support website. They have a wealth of information and troubleshooting tips. You can also contact Nintendo's customer support for assistance. They're usually pretty helpful and can guide you through any problems you might be having. Don't be afraid to reach out for help! Nintendo Support is there to assist you if you ever run into any snags!
Final Thoughts
Buying Nintendo Switch games online is super convenient and opens up a world of gaming possibilities. From setting up your Nintendo Account to browsing the eShop and managing your game library, it's all pretty straightforward. Just follow these steps, and you'll be gaming in no time. And remember, keep an eye out for sales and discounts to save some money. Happy gaming, folks! Get out there and explore those digital worlds!