Nintendo is shutting down the Switch’s Chinese eShop and online services in 2026

by Danny Craig · 11/26/24, 2:08 PM
Nintendo is shutting down the Switch’s Chinese eShop and online services in 2026
Nintendo

Nintendo has announced that it will discontinue the Switch's eShop and other network services in mainland China in 2026, preventing players from purchasing games and other content digitally.

The details:

  • Nintendo confirmed on the Switch's Chinese website that the eShop will no longer sell games or offer demos or free trials starting March 31, 2026. Beginning May 15, 2026, DLC will also be unavailable, players will be unable to redeem codes or download owned titles, and the remainder of the Switch's online services will be shut down.

  • While Nintendo has not stated why it intends to shut down the Switch's online services, it is worth noting that the console is sold in China in collaboration with tech giant Tencent, and a partnership between the two may be coming to an end. The decision may also have been influenced by the Chinese government's ongoing efforts to combat video game addiction and spending in online games.

  • Following the announcement, Chinese players will be able to redeem up to four free first-party Switch games by connecting a WeChat account to their console between November 27, 2024 and March 31, 2026. The titles available include Super Mario Odyssey, Pokémon Let's Go! Eevee and Pikachu, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and other notable releases.

  • The Switch debuted in the region in 2020 alongside Super Smash Bros Ultimate, with older titles being localized in subsequent years. It has not been confirmed whether Nintendo's next console will be released in China, but if it is, it will most likely be delayed in comparison to the rest of the world.

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