If you’ve never downloaded a game digitally before, don’t worry too much as the process is easy. You just need to have a good internet connection in order to access the store and ensure the download goes smoothly. Getting games digitally is a convenient way of getting new games or discovering great indie titles. Follow this guide and enjoy great new games without ever leaving your couch.
Link a Nintendo Account to Your Switch
The first step is to create and link a Nintendo account if you haven’t done so previously. This will allow you to download games within this account and save your purchasing history. You’ll need a User account, which is the account you use with Switch. You probably created one when setting up Switch, but if not, or you want to set up a new User from the one you already created, you can follow the steps from Nintendo. To link a Nintendo account to your Switch User account, follow the steps below: Now that you have a Nintendo Account on your Switch, you can head over to the eShop.
Download Games On the eShop
After you’ve opened the eShop from the Switch’s Home menu, follow these steps to find and download the game you want. Once the game has been downloaded, you’ll see it on your Switch Home screen. You can then select it and begin to play right away.
How to Redownload a Game
If you have previously bought and downloaded a game, and then either archived it or deleted it from your Home screen, you can download it again. This can be done, but the process will be different depending on whether you archived it or deleted it.
After Archiving the Game
When you archive a game, you can still see its icon on your Home screen, but you won’t be able to play it until you’ve redownloaded it. Follow these steps to do that:
After Deleting the Game
If you don’t see the game’s icon on your Home screen, it could mean you deleted it. You can still redownload it, but it takes a few more steps. If you don’t see the game you want to redownload, you may have purchased it using a different Nintendo Account. Log into any other Nintendo Accounts you may have and follow the steps above to see if that’s the case.
How to Download a Game Using a Code
If you purchase a digital Switch game through means other than the eShop, you may have received a download code. These can be redeemed on the eShop to receive and download your game.
Playing Digital Games On the Switch
With so many digital game options, you’re unlikely to run out of things to play on the Switch. Not only can you find Nintendo’s major titles on the eShop, but there are tons of great indie games to try out too. You can also sometimes find sales on the eShop, so keep an eye out for when this happens. What are some of your favorite games you’ve downloaded on the Switch? Let us know in the comments.
