Can You Gift Games on Switch? Gifting Guide

Ever wondered if you can spread the Nintendo joy by sending a digital game to a friend? The Nintendo eShop, the central hub for all things digital on the console, has some interesting quirks. A “Nintendo Switch Online” subscription brings a treasure trove of retro games, but **can you gift games on Switch** directly through it? While you might dream of surprising your bestie with the latest “Legend of Zelda” title, the gifting process isn’t as straightforward as on other platforms like Steam.

Sharing the Fun: Your Guide to Gifting Nintendo Switch Games

Gifting a Nintendo Switch game isn’t just about handing over a cartridge or a digital code. It’s about sharing a world of adventure, a chance to connect with beloved characters, and the potential for countless hours of fun.

It’s an act of kindness that can bring genuine smiles and create lasting memories. This guide is designed to help you navigate the sometimes-tricky waters of gifting Switch games.

The Joy of Giving (and Receiving!)

Think back to the last time you received a truly thoughtful gift. It probably sparked a feeling of warmth, appreciation, and maybe even a little bit of excitement, right?

Video games can evoke that same feeling. Maybe even stronger. Gifting a game shows you’re paying attention to someone’s interests and wanting to provide them with an enjoyable experience.

It’s an investment in their happiness, a way to say, "I see you, I know what you like, and I want you to have fun." It’s a great way to connect with friends and family.

Who’s This Guide For?

This guide is for anyone looking to gift a Nintendo Switch game. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer yourself or completely new to the world of Nintendo, we’ve got you covered.

It’s for parents, grandparents, siblings, friends, significant others, or anyone who wants to bring a little joy into the life of a Switch owner.

Consider this your friendly handbook to navigate the ins and outs of digital and physical game gifting.

Digital vs. Physical: A Quick Preview

So, what’s the difference between gifting a digital game versus a physical one? The main difference is convenience and tangibility.

Digital games offer instant gratification and eliminate the need for physical media. You can purchase a digital code and send it instantly, regardless of where the recipient is located.

Physical games, on the other hand, provide a tangible item to unwrap and hold. They can be collected, traded, and offer that classic "owning" experience.

But, gifting digital can be tricky with the Switch. Nintendo doesn’t offer straightforward digital gifting, so there are workarounds.

We’ll dive deeper into the pros and cons of each approach later on. We’ll also reveal the best gifting scenario for each approach.

For now, just keep in mind that both options have their unique advantages, and the best choice will depend on the recipient and the situation.

Digital Gifting: Navigating the Nintendo eShop

So, you’re thinking of digitally gifting a Nintendo Switch game? Awesome! It’s a super convenient way to surprise someone. However, gifting on the Nintendo eShop isn’t quite as straightforward as, say, sending a gift through an online retailer. Let’s navigate the digital waters and make sure your gift-giving goes swimmingly.

Accessing the Nintendo eShop

First things first, you’ll need to know your way around the Nintendo eShop. Think of it as the central hub for all things digital Nintendo. It’s where you buy and download games directly to your Switch.

Finding and Navigating the eShop

The Nintendo eShop is easily accessible right on the Nintendo Switch console:

1. From the HOME Menu, look for the orange shopping bag icon labeled "Nintendo eShop."

2. Tap or select it with the joystick and press "A".

3. You’ll be prompted to select the user account you wish to use to access the eShop.

4. Once you select an account, you’ll enter the eShop.

Browsing and Searching

Once inside, you can browse the latest releases, check out top sellers, or search for a specific title. The eShop has a fairly intuitive interface. Just poke around to get a feel for how things are organized.

The Download Code "Workaround"

Here’s the slightly quirky part: Nintendo doesn’t currently offer direct digital gifting. So, you can’t just select a game and send it directly to a friend’s account. Instead, we have to use a workaround: download codes.

What are Download Codes?

A download code is essentially a digital key that unlocks a game on the Nintendo eShop. You purchase the code, give it to the recipient, and they redeem it on their Switch to download the game.

Purchasing a Download Code

Think of the download code as a gift card specifically for a particular game.

Where to Buy Download Codes

You have a few options when purchasing download codes:

• Nintendo eShop Website: Sometimes you can purchase download codes directly from Nintendo’s website, although availability can vary.

• Authorized Digital Code Resellers: Places like Amazon, Best Buy (online), and other reputable retailers often sell digital codes.

• Physical Retail Stores: Many brick-and-mortar stores that sell Nintendo Switch games also carry download codes. You might find them near the gift cards.

Region Compatibility is Key!

This is crucial! Nintendo Switch games and download codes are region-locked. This means that a download code purchased for one region (e.g., North America) will not work on a Nintendo Switch console set to a different region (e.g., Europe).

• Always double-check the recipient’s region before buying a download code.

• If you’re unsure, it’s generally safer to purchase a code from a retailer in the same region as the recipient.

Redeeming a Download Code: Step-by-Step

Okay, you’ve got your download code. Now, how does your friend actually get the game?

Redeeming on the Nintendo Switch Console

1. From the HOME Menu, select the Nintendo eShop icon.

2. Select the account you want to use.

3. On the left side of the screen, scroll down and select "Redeem Code."

4. Enter the 16-character download code.

5. Follow the on-screen instructions to download the game.

Redeeming via a Web Browser

1. Go to the Nintendo website: https://ec.nintendo.com/my/balanceadd/code

2. Log in to your Nintendo Account.

3. Enter the 16-character download code.

4. Follow the on-screen instructions. The game will begin downloading to the linked Nintendo Switch console (make sure the console is connected to the internet).

The Importance of a Nintendo Account

To redeem a download code and play the game, the recipient absolutely needs a Nintendo Account. It’s free to create, so make sure they have one set up before you send the code.

Without a Nintendo Account, they won’t be able to access the eShop, redeem the code, or download the game.

Digital gifting on the Switch requires a little more finesse. But, with a clear understanding of download codes and region compatibility, you’ll be setting your friend (or loved one) up for hours of gaming bliss in no time!

Physical Gifting: The Tangible Approach

After all the digital talk, sometimes you just want something real to hand over, right?
Physical games and gift cards offer a nostalgic and tactile gifting experience that digital downloads simply can’t match.

Let’s explore the world of physical Nintendo Switch gifts, weighing their pros and cons, and figuring out when they might be the perfect choice.

The Allure of the Cartridge: A Classic Gift

There’s something undeniably satisfying about handing someone a brand-new game in its box.
It’s a tangible expression of your thoughtfulness.
So, where do you snag these coveted cartridges?

Primarily, your go-to will be retail stores. Think big box retailers like Walmart, Target, and Best Buy.
Don’t forget dedicated video game stores like GameStop!
You might also find them at smaller electronics stores.

Pros and Cons of Physical Games

Let’s be real, physical games aren’t always the best option. Here’s a balanced view:

Pros:

• Tangible and Collectible: It’s something they can hold, display, and cherish. Great for collectors!
• Resale Value: If they don’t like it, they can trade it in or sell it.
• No Internet Needed (After Install): Once installed, the game can be played offline.

Cons:

• Inconvenient Delivery: You have to physically get the game to the recipient.
  This isn’t great if they live far away.
• Risk of Loss or Damage: Cartridges can be lost, stolen, or damaged.
• Takes Up Space: Some people prefer a clutter-free, digital library.

Ultimately, the decision hinges on the recipient’s preferences and your gifting style.

Nintendo eShop Gift Cards: A Flexible Alternative

Not sure which game they want?
An eShop Gift Card is your best bet!
It lets them choose.

It’s like giving them the keys to the Nintendo kingdom.

Physical vs. Digital Gift Cards

Be careful to check what kind of gift card you’re getting!
This is because you can buy both physical gift cards in stores and digital ones online.
Physical cards are great for a tactile, "open the present" experience!

Where to Buy eShop Gift Cards

Just like physical games, you can find eShop Gift Cards at many retail locations.
Keep an eye out at pharmacies such as CVS and Walgreens.

Online retailers like Amazon and Best Buy also offer digital gift cards that can be emailed directly to the recipient, making them a convenient option for long-distance gifting.

A Note on Nintendo Support and Gifting

While Nintendo Support is fantastic for technical issues, they don’t directly assist with the gifting process itself.
If you’re having trouble redeeming a code or something isn’t working as expected, their website and support team are great resources.

Keep in mind that if a game needs help and Nintendo support assists, the support staff cannot directly assist in gifting but can help with technical issues.

Before You Buy: Crucial Considerations for Successful Gifting

After all the excitement of picking out the perfect game, it’s easy to rush to the checkout. But hold on a sec! A little forethought can save you from gifting a game that ends up collecting dust. Before you finalize that purchase, let’s run through some vital things to consider, ensuring your thoughtful gift hits the mark.

Age Appropriateness: ESRB and PEGI Ratings Matter

Okay, this one might seem obvious, but it’s super important. Games have ratings for a reason.

The Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB) in North America and the Pan European Game Information (PEGI) in Europe assign age ratings to games based on their content.

Ignoring these ratings is like buying a horror movie for a toddler—not a good idea!

Make sure the game’s content (violence, language, themes) is appropriate for the recipient’s age and maturity level.

It’s always better to err on the side of caution. A little research can save you (and the recipient) from an awkward or unpleasant experience.

Nintendo Switch Online: Is a Subscription Required?

So, you found the perfect multiplayer game, but can your giftee actually play it online? That’s where Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) comes in.

NSO is Nintendo’s subscription service that allows players to access online multiplayer features for many games.

Think of it like needing a ticket to enter an online amusement park.

Not all games require NSO for online play (some free-to-play games are exceptions), but many do.

Before gifting a game with a strong online component, check if a NSO subscription is needed.

If it is, consider gifting a NSO subscription along with the game for the complete experience.

This shows you’ve gone the extra mile and prevents disappointment later on.

The Nintendo Account Factor: Essential for Gaming

In the digital age, a Nintendo Account is basically the key to unlocking the full potential of a Nintendo Switch.

It’s needed for downloading games, accessing online services, and even saving game progress to the cloud.

If your recipient doesn’t have one, they won’t be able to redeem a digital download code.

Make sure your recipient has a Nintendo Account before gifting a digital game. It’s a free and easy process to create one.

Think of it like ensuring they have a valid email address before sending them an e-gift card. It’s a necessary prerequisite.

Family Groups: Navigating Parental Controls

If you’re gifting to a child or teenager within a family, be aware of Nintendo’s Family Groups.

Family Groups allow parents to manage and control their children’s Nintendo Accounts.

This includes setting spending limits, restricting access to certain games, and monitoring online activity.

If the recipient is part of a Family Group, the parent or guardian might have to approve the game purchase or download.

This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t gift the game, but it’s good to be aware of the potential for parental oversight.

It’s all about ensuring a smooth and compliant gifting experience within the family dynamic.

Consider communicating with the parents beforehand to ensure the game aligns with their preferences and restrictions. This can prevent any unexpected issues or disappointments.

Troubleshooting & FAQs: Solving Common Gifting Issues

After all the excitement of picking out the perfect game, it’s easy to rush to the checkout. But hold on a sec! A little forethought can save you from gifting a game that ends up collecting dust. Before you finalize that purchase, let’s run through some vital things to consider.

Even with the best intentions, gifting a Nintendo Switch game can sometimes hit a snag. Don’t worry, though; most hiccups are easily resolved. Let’s dive into some common issues, offer practical solutions, and point you in the right direction for further assistance.

Common Issues and Quick Fixes

So, what could possibly go wrong? Here are a few frequently encountered problems when gifting Nintendo Switch games and some initial troubleshooting steps:

• Code Redemption Problems: This is probably the most common issue.

  • Double-check the code! Seriously, ensure you’ve entered it correctly. It’s easy to mix up numbers and letters.
  • Has the code already been redeemed? If so, contact the retailer or Nintendo Support.
  • Check the region! Is the code compatible with the recipient’s Nintendo Account region? Region mismatch is a frequent culprit.

• Region Errors: As we’ve stressed, region locking is a thing.

  • Make absolutely sure the game or code is for the correct region (Americas, Europe, Japan, etc.). A code from one region won’t work on an account from another.
  • Unfortunately, there’s no workaround for this.

When to Call in the Pros: Nintendo Support

Sometimes, you need expert help. Nintendo Support is your go-to resource for trickier issues.

• Technical glitches. If the eShop is acting up, or there’s a problem with the game itself, Nintendo’s support team can assist.

• Account issues. Problems with Nintendo Accounts, like locked or compromised accounts, require their direct intervention.

• Unresolved redemption issues. If you’ve tried everything and a code still won’t redeem, Nintendo Support can investigate.

You can find their support website with FAQs and contact information on Nintendo’s official site. Don’t hesitate to reach out; they’re there to help!

The Fine Print: Return Policies on Gifted Games

Okay, let’s talk about returns. It’s not the cheeriest subject, but important nonetheless.

• Generally, digital game purchases are non-refundable. This is pretty standard across digital storefronts.
• Physical games may be returnable, but it depends on the retailer’s policy. The recipient will likely need the original receipt or proof of purchase.

The takeaway? Choose carefully! A little research beforehand can prevent the need for returns in the first place.

So, now you know the ins and outs of how to share the fun! While directly sending digital games isn’t quite there yet, there are definitely workarounds to ensure your friends and family can enjoy their favorite titles on their Nintendo Switch. Hopefully, this gifting guide helped clarify can you gift games on Switch, and now you’re ready to spread some gaming joy! Happy gifting!