Nintendo banned a Switch 2 user for playing second-hand games and only reinstated after providing proof of purchase
In problems that could only happen to console gamers, one Switch 2 owner recently received the hefty swing of Nintendo's banhammer thanks to some second-hand games. Nintendo are well known for being particularly litigious when it comes to protecting their IP, and it turns out inserting pirated carts is enough to set off the DRM protections on the brand new consoles.
The proud owner of a brand new Switch 2 known as dmanthey over on Reddit (via Tom's Hardware) found themselves banned after trying out some games they'd bought off Facebook Marketplace. The games were used Switch 1 games, and dmanthey thought all was well and good after inserting each cart and performing updates, ready for a full day of gaming ahead.
This wasn't to be, as loading up their Switch 2 the next day greeted them with a restriction message from Nintendo. It stated they had been banned from online services, which even included downloading games they already owned legitimately through the store. The good news is Nintendo support was really easy to get ahold of, and they raised the restrictions after dmanthey provided proof of their unwittingly pirated purchases.
Still it serves as a fair warning to everyone else with the new console. If you've bought used Switch 1 games, you'll want to exercise caution before introducing them to your Switch 2. While dmanthey got pretty unlucky getting ahold of Nintendo support and getting the problem fixed, it may not be so easy for the next person. Especially if you've had the games for a while and can't prove where you got them.
What is more worrying is Nintendo's quick decision to enforce the ban in the first place. Nintendo has recently changed its online user agreement to give it the right to make services "permanently unusable" if it determines you're in violation of the agreement, which includes things like modding the hardware and using pirated carts, though no word on how much it takes to trigger the ban.
It raises the question about how easy it is to get caught. Was this account only tripped because several games were added all at once, or is this going to be an easy folly for anyone to fall into? Furthermore Nintendo just stripping access to purchased games also seems like a huge problem. Given this is Nintendo's fastest selling console yet, I'd wager more than a few unwitting victims are going to wind up locked out of their fancy new Switch 2.
Of course, these are problems for console gamers. Those of us with PCs don't really worry about such things. Still, if I'd paid $450 for a new piece of hardware I'd at least want to feel like I owned the thing even if it's clear Nintendon't agree.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
WIRED
3 hours ago
- WIRED
Mix Up Your Gameplay With Our Favorite Controllers for the Switch 2
The launch of Switch 2 brings with it a selection of retro GameCube games for subscribers to the Nintendo Switch Online service. As it did for the NES, SNES, N64, and even Sega Genesis/Mega Drive when games from those platforms joined the library, Nintendo has released a perfect recreation of the original controller, allowing you to play those classic games as authentically as possible. For anyone who was gaming when the GameCube was first around, it's slightly surreal to now have a perfect recreation of the original controller that's wireless but not the bulkier WaveBird model. It's no bad thing, though, and decades-old muscle memory will soon kick in. Younger players might find the unusually-shaped controller odd at first, with its tiny nub of a C-Stick and its chunky, rounded shoulder triggers, but after a few laps of F-Zero GX , you soon realize how perfectly tailored the controller was for its games. For the modern update, Nintendo has tweaked the design slightly, incorporating controls specific to the Switch 2–namely the Home, screen capture, and C buttons—at the top of the pad, and added a tiny new ZL button on the left-hand shoulder. That helps make this GameCube pad broadly compatible with some modern Switch and Switch 2 games, though not a perfect match—the Start button here mimics the Switch 2's plus (+) button, there's nothing to replicate the minus (-) button, and it lacks newer features such as clickable thumbsticks. However, availability is a problem for this controller. It's only available directly from Nintendo's online store, can only be purchased if you have an active Nintendo Switch Online subscription, and is limited to one unit per account in the US, but two per account in the UK. AccordionItemContainerButton Ultimate authenticity for GameCube games Partial compatibility with modern games Not every Switch 2 game requires the motion controls of the Joy-Con 2s, which is why the console comes with a basic grip frame, allowing you to slot the two individual controllers into either side for one, more conventionally arranged, joypad. While that will do in a pinch if you want to play games sitting on the couch, with the console docked to your TV, the official Nintendo Charging Grip offers a few noteworthy upgrades. One is simply the power delivery feature—connect a USB-C cable into the top of the Charging Grip and you can game for as long as you like, or leave the combined unit to charge when not playing. It comes with a 1.5-meter USB-A to USB-C cable, allowing you to connect this to the ports on the side of the Switch 2's dock for charging. It also incorporates the new GL and GR buttons on the underside, as found on the Switch 2 Pro Controller. As with that pad, they can be customized on a per-game basis, but in my tests, it doesn't seem to remember settings between play sessions. Still, it's a handy feature, and remapping controls is quick and easy. Being able to quickly attach and detach the Joy-Con 2s is also great for any games that switch between various control modes. In terms of design and ergonomics, it has some weaknesses, though. A translucent shell is an odd decision given nothing else about Switch 2 takes that approach, while the front of the grips—where the base of your thumbs rest—is flat rather than rounded, with an edge that can dig in after a while. It also lacks the 3.5-mm audio jack of the Pro Controller, but given that this is less than half the price, it makes for a good halfway house. AccordionItemContainerButton Power delivery Customizable GL/GR buttons Good price No audio jack Pointlessly translucent Doesn't remember GL/GR mapping between sessions
Business Upturn
3 hours ago
- Business Upturn
RDDT SECURITIES NEWS: Did Reddit, Inc. (NYSE:RDDT) Commit Securities Fraud? Contact BFA Law by August 18 Class Action Deadline
NEW YORK, July 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Leading securities law firm Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP announces that a lawsuit has been filed against Reddit, Inc. (NYSE: RDDT) and certain of the Company's senior executives for potential violations of the federal securities laws. If you invested in Reddit, you are encouraged to obtain additional information by visiting: Investors have until August 18, 2025, to ask the Court to be appointed to lead the case. The complaint asserts claims under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 on behalf of investors who purchased Reddit securities. The case is pending in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California and is captioned Tamraz, Jr. v. Reddit, Inc., at al. , No. 25-cv-05144. Why was Reddit Sued for Securities Fraud? Reddit owns and operates the eponymous social news aggregation, forum, and social media platform. Reddit receives a significant portion of its user traffic from individuals seeking answers to questions using Google Search. The complaint alleges that Reddit misrepresented and downplayed the impact that Google's use of Artificial Intelligence ('AI') technology in Google's search results had on Reddit's user growth. In truth, Google's use of AI dented Reddit's user growth by eliminating the need for individuals to visit and click through to Reddit to get answers to their questions. Rather, the answers appeared through Google's AI search results. The Stock Declines as the Truth is Revealed On May 1, 2025, Reddit reported a significant slowdown in daily active user growth. On this news, the price of Reddit stock declined $4.96 per share, or more than 4%, from $118.79 per share on May 1, 2025, to $113.83 per share on May 2, 2025. Then, on May 21, 2025, Wall Street analyst Baird cut its Reddit stock price target over concerns that Google's AI capabilities are stifling Reddit's user growth. On this news, the price of Reddit stock fell $9.79 per share, or over 9%, from $105.64 per share on May 20, 2025, to $95.85 per share on May 21, 2025. Click here for more information: What Can You Do? If you invested in Reddit you may have legal options and are encouraged to submit your information to the firm. All representation is on a contingency fee basis, there is no cost to you. Shareholders are not responsible for any court costs or expenses of litigation. The firm will seek court approval for any potential fees and expenses. Submit your information by visiting: Or contact:Ross Shikowitz [email protected] 212-789-3619
Forbes
7 hours ago
- Forbes
5 Of 2025's Best Cheap Switch 2 Accessories: Cases, Pads, And More
You've paid a lot for your Nintendo Switch 2, so now it's time to pay less for the inevitable ... More accessories you need for it. So, you've spent $500 on this year's hottest console, which now begs the question: given you've already paid a small fortune for it, should you stick with Nintendo for Switch 2 accessories? If 2025's early selection is anything to go by, it's a great chance to save some money. You'd be forgiven for questioning the quality of the third-party cases, covers, controllers, and charging docks that have flooded stores so quickly after launch day, but this is 2025. It's one hell of a competitive market, and one that's driving probably the best level of craftsmanship from unofficial manufacturers. With this in mind, here are a handful of recommendations that won't break the bank, and in some cases, genuinely perform better than Nintendo's alternatives. However, the company knows good partners when it sees them, because a couple of approved collaborations have found their way onto this list. Best cheap Switch 2 controller: PowerA Advantage Wired Controller ($40) PowerA has a habit of getting things done very well without going above and beyond, as most recently proved by its flashy, light-up Xbox controller, which I adore. The PowerA Advantage Wired Controller for Switch 2 — which is officially licensed — is also a lovely bit of kit. The PowerA Advantage is also available in more garish, Nintendo-themed colors, if that's your thing. FEATURED | Frase ByForbes™ Unscramble The Anagram To Reveal The Phrase Pinpoint By Linkedin Guess The Category Queens By Linkedin Crown Each Region Crossclimb By Linkedin Unlock A Trivia Ladder It's much lighter than standard Switch 1 and 2 Pro Controllers, making it especially great for younger players, and the sticks alone are its strongest draw, combining Hall effect sensors with an obscenely smooth feel. The only thing I really don't like about it is the button placement for +/-, Home, GameChat, and Screenshot, which are lined up in a solid row at the bottom of the front face. There are three things in life guaranteed: death, taxes, and always forgetting the order of these buttons. It must be said that the PowerA recommendation is based on in-store and online availability. Loads of online sellers, particularly those shipping directly from China, are transforming the broader controller market, so you should also check out a few other options from the likes of Mobapad and GameSir, which have updated their firmware for the next generation (and, more often than not, work just as well as PC controllers). Of course, there's always the ultimate meeting-in-the-middle option: using a standard Switch Pro Controller. You can pick them up for about $45; the battery lasts forever, and it's still the best and most comfortable standard console controller from the last generation. However, you won't get the same vibration, nor can it turn your Switch 2 on. Best budget all-in-one Switch 2 case: Snakebyte System Organizer Case S2 ($30) Even though it's a little plain to look at, Snakebyte's System Organizer Case S2 is an absolute masterpiece — it just gets everything right, offering loads of flexibility with its detachable console case in the lid. Snakebyte's range is simple but effective. In the main chamber, there's plenty of room for the docking station, controllers, and wires. It features a solid, scratch-resistant shell that's also water-repellent, alongside a shoulder strap for easy carrying. Considering the official carry case retails for $80 or more (if you can even get one), this option from Snakebyte, for only $30, should be on anyone's shortlist. While you're there, and while it's not a category below because it's a bit niche, Snakebyte's Power Charge S2 is probably the best charging plug if you're a frequent traveller, especially because it comes with a standard U.S. plug and adaptors for Europe, the U.K., and Australia — not bad for $20. Best value compact Switch 2 travel case: Game Traveler Deluxe System Case ($30) As the most crowded market of all, the selection of Switch 2 travel cases depends on one key factor: will this case be in frequent contact with other items, such as a stuffed backpack or carry-on luggage? While some cases may look the part, there's a good chance you might ding your Joy-Cons with lighter protection, which is why I'm leading with something more heavy-duty. Most people will only buy one case for their Switch 2, so if you choose a smaller-sized one, opt for the official Game Traveler Deluxe System Case. Its biggest draw is that it not only protects the screen with a fabric flap, but also positions the console face into the broader case, meaning you don't have to worry about your Joy-Cons being knocked about from the outside. There's more than enough space for a controller and plug, plus 12 games in its weirdly overengineered 'Protection Library.' The Game Traveler Deluxe System Case. If you're a little more careful, and want to spend even less, you can't fault the $20 PowerA Slim Case for Nintendo Switch 2, which certainly looks the part thanks to its official partnership, but it won't stop your jaw from dropping if it hits the ground from a great height, nor does it quite protect the Joy-Con sticks. Best budget Switch 2 handheld protective case: Mumba Blade Series Dockable Case ($30) If you're much more of a handheld Switch 2 fan, but still want the flexibility to dock it and play on the big screen, the Mumba Blade Series case is a no-brainer. It might not look as aesthetically pleasing as other third-party options on the market, such as the refined Spigen Rugged Armor (also $30), but this is far more adaptable. The Mumba Blade Series Dockable Case for Switch 2. Too many cases — however lovely they are — don't fit the dock, but this has some very clever shaping that lets it drop in seamlessly. It also features a quick-release Joy-Con mode that allows you to detach them without needing to remove the entire case. It's sturdy and non-slip, but doesn't overcomplicate itself to such a degree that it can only be used by shovel-handed people like me — it's excellent for smaller palms, and the curves are comfortable enough for longer sessions. Best cheap Joy-Con charging stand: Venom Charging Station for Switch 2 ($23) The Switch 2 charging dock market is a bit crowded, especially for something that's a luxury — after all, you can just slap them back on the console and charge via the console dock. Still, Venom's offering takes up little space on whatever surface you pop them on, while also using their magnets to keep them in place. The Venom Twin Charging Dock for Switch 2. Availability is limited outside of Europe, but there are other good options available, including another dependable stand from Snakebyte with its Twin Charge S2, even if it's your classic flat-lay option. If you're made of money and somehow already own four Joy-Con 2s, don't be seduced by the four-way chargers that look like bodega magazine racks — my friend bought one with the best of intentions, only to immediately put two of his four controllers back on the Switch 2 at the end of a gaming session, rendering his quad stand pretty useless. Are there any recommendations that you have for other affordable Switch 2 accessories? Leave me a comment, or get in touch with me through the links below.
