Can You Link Two Nintendo Switches to One Account?
Nintendo Switch has become a cornerstone of gaming for families and individuals alike, but with the growing need for flexibility, many are curious about whether they can link two Nintendo Switch consoles to a single account. This setup can be beneficial for households with multiple consoles or for players who own both a standard Switch and a Switch Lite for on-the-go gaming. In this article, we’ll explore how to connect two Nintendo Switch consoles to one Nintendo account, the benefits and limitations, and provide helpful troubleshooting tips along the way.
Understanding Nintendo Accounts on Multiple Devices
The Nintendo Switch allows users to create a Nintendo Account, which is essential for accessing eShop purchases, cloud saves, and online services. However, unlike some other platforms, the Switch ecosystem does have some restrictions on how accounts are managed across devices. Linking two consoles to a single Nintendo account is possible, but there are a few specific steps and conditions you need to follow. Knowing these ahead of time can help you manage your account and games without unexpected interruptions.
Why Link Two Nintendo Switch Consoles to One Account?
There are several scenarios where having two Nintendo Switch consoles linked to one account can be advantageous:
- Family Sharing: If your household has multiple Nintendo Switch consoles, sharing one account allows family members to access the same library of games without purchasing titles multiple times.
- On-the-Go Convenience: For users who own both a full-sized Switch and a Switch Lite, sharing an account means you can switch between devices depending on your needs without losing progress.
- Cost Savings: By linking two consoles, you can enjoy digital game purchases across both, maximizing your investment.
How to Link Two Nintendo Switch Consoles to One Account
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to note that Nintendo enforces specific terms when it comes to account management on multiple devices. Here’s how you can link two Nintendo Switch consoles to the same account, allowing you to share your games effectively.
1. Choose a Primary and Secondary Console
When you link two Nintendo Switch consoles, one must be designated as the Primary Console while the other acts as a Secondary Console. The Primary Console allows any user on that device to access your game library, while the Secondary Console requires internet verification to play games, limiting some offline access. To avoid interruptions, it’s wise to assign the Primary Console to the device used most frequently.
2. Sign in to the Same Nintendo Account
Start by signing into the Nintendo account you wish to use on both consoles. You can do this by going to:
- System Settings > Users > Add User > Sign in to Nintendo Account
Use the same login credentials on both consoles. Once signed in, the first console where you logged in will be the Primary Console by default.
3. Set the Primary Console
To confirm or change the Primary Console designation:
- Open the Nintendo eShop on the console you want to set as Primary.
- Log in with your Nintendo account and navigate to the eShop settings.
- If the console isn’t already the Primary Console, you’ll see an option to Set as Primary. Select this to finalize.
Once the Primary Console is established, any other console you sign into with the same account will automatically become a Secondary Console.
4. Download Games to the Secondary Console
On the Secondary Console, access your account in the eShop and navigate to your game library. Here, you can download any games linked to your account. Remember, while both consoles can access the game library, only the Primary Console can play offline without restrictions.
5. Important Usage Considerations
With two Nintendo Switch consoles linked to one account, there are a few important usage policies:
- Only one console can actively play a game at a time with the same Nintendo account.
- The Secondary Console requires an internet connection for verification each time it starts a game.
- Game saves are stored on each console individually, though you can use the Nintendo Switch Online Cloud Save feature to sync game progress across devices.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Linking two Nintendo Switch consoles to one account is generally smooth, but some users may experience issues, especially with internet connection requirements on the Secondary Console. Here are some common problems and solutions:
Game Access Interrupted on the Secondary Console
If the Secondary Console is experiencing interruptions while accessing games:
- Ensure Stable Internet Connection: The Secondary Console requires a reliable internet connection for account verification each time you play.
- Check the Primary Console’s Usage: If the Primary Console is currently using the same account to play a game, this will prevent the Secondary Console from playing simultaneously. Be sure the Primary Console is logged out or idle.
Cannot Set Primary Console
If you’re having trouble setting your Primary Console, try these steps:
- Make sure you’re signed in to the correct account in the Nintendo eShop on the desired Primary Console.
- If the account is already set as Primary on another console, deactivate the Primary status there first by navigating to Account Settings > Deregister Console.
Game Data Not Syncing Across Consoles
For those using the same Nintendo account on multiple consoles, cloud saves are essential. Here’s how to manage your data syncing:
- Ensure you have a Nintendo Switch Online Membership, which is required for cloud saves.
- Enable cloud saves in your System Settings and check that data is being uploaded and downloaded correctly on both devices.
Benefits and Limitations of Linking Two Nintendo Switch Consoles
Before making the decision to link two consoles to one account, it’s important to understand both the advantages and the limitations of this setup. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Benefits
- **Cost-Effective Game Sharing**: Buy games once and enjoy them on both consoles.
- **Seamless Transition**: Switch between consoles with saved game progress using cloud saves.
- **Family-Friendly**: Enable family members to enjoy your game library on their own console without the need to buy duplicates.
Limitations
- **Single Console Play at a Time**: Only one console can be active per game session on the same account.
- **Internet Requirement for Secondary Console**: Without an internet connection, the Secondary Console may not be able to verify game licenses, limiting playtime when offline.
- **Separate Save Data**: Unless using cloud saves, each console stores its game progress locally, which could lead to unsynced data without frequent cloud uploads.
Conclusion: Is Linking Two Nintendo Switch Consoles to One Account Right for You?
Linking two Nintendo Switch consoles to one account can be a convenient and cost-effective way to maximize your gaming experience across multiple devices. This setup allows you to access your game library on both consoles and offers flexibility for households with multiple gamers or users who enjoy gaming on both a full-sized and handheld Switch. However, remember that there are limitations, especially regarding simultaneous play and internet requirements for the Secondary Console.
For households looking to share a game library, this setup is ideal. However, those who need offline access on both consoles or wish to play multiplayer games simultaneously with the same account may want to consider other options, such as creating separate accounts or purchasing additional copies of certain games. Ultimately, linking two Nintendo Switch consoles to one account can be a powerful tool, giving you more freedom to enjoy your Nintendo Switch experience across multiple devices.
This article is in the category Reviews and created by GameMasterHub Team