Nintendo is getting ahead of Switch 2 pirates with a new warning against unauthorized use — what you need to know
A new update to to the Nintendo Account Agreement includes a strongly-worded warning against "unauthorized use," which appears to be a strong attempt to prevent piracy and emulation.
If you have a Nintendo account, you should have received an email with a link to the updated policy. Game File's Stephen Totilo spotted the updated wording in the "License for Digital Products" section of the agreement.
"You acknowledge that if you fail to comply with the foregoing restrictions Nintendo may render the Nintendo Account Services and/or the applicable Nintendo device permanently unusable in whole or in part," the agreement now reads.
As a comparison, here is what the agreement used to say there:
"You acknowledge that if you fail to comply with the foregoing restrictions Nintendo may render the Nintendo Account Services and/or the applicable Nintendo device permanently unusable in whole or in part."
It's pretty intense, and as we've seen with various legal cases and cease and desists from Nintendo, not too surprising that the company would go after those who hack or modify its consoles or games or run emulators.
Bricking your console if you get caught pirating games is quite the step.
Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips.
Additionally, the Nintendo Account Privacy Policy has been altered. It appears both policies are being updated ahead of the release of the Nintendo Switch 2 and the new GameChat feature.
The Privacy policy now says that Nintendo will have the ability to record video and voice chats stored on your console, if you consent to it.
According to the policy, this is meant for people who encounter "language or behavior that may violate applicable laws" to ensure a "safe and family-friendly online environment."
Game Chat basically adds a Zoom or Skype-element to the Switch 2 that lets you video chat with other gamers while playing.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Business Wire
37 minutes ago
- Business Wire
CORRECTING and REPLACING Power Up Your Play With Nintendo Switch 2 and
REDMOND, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Headline should read: Power Up Your Play With Nintendo Switch 2 and Mario Kart World Launching Today (instead of Mario Kart World Launching Today). The updated release reads: POWER UP YOUR PLAY WITH NINTENDO SWITCH 2 AND MARIO KART WORLD LAUNCHING TODAY Nintendo Switch 2 – Featuring a Reimagined Online Experience With GameChat – Arrives in Stores Today Along With the Biggest Mario Kart Game in History and More The Joy-Con 2 controllers are snapped in place, the bigger, bolder screen is lit up, and Mario and friends are revving their rides for the biggest Mario Kart yet. It's official: the Nintendo Switch 2 system, the Mario Kart World game and over 20 titles are now available to power up your play. Today, Nintendo launched its first brand-new gaming platform in eight years with Nintendo Switch 2, and the latest Mario Kart game for consoles in over a decade with Mario Kart World. Nintendo Switch 2 brings to life new ways to connect and play with friends and family with new features and reimagined online capabilities such as GameChat 1. Mario Kart World allows players to hit the road in a vast interconnected playground where the world is their racetrack. Further, the Nintendo Switch 2 launch lineup features acclaimed titles from Nintendo's global publishing and development partners, such as Split Fiction, Street Fighter 6, Sid Meier's Civilization ® VII – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition and more. Together, these new experiences mark a leap forward in Nintendo's mission to deliver smiles to people the world over – All Together, Anytime, Anywhere. A new Nintendo Switch 2 launch trailer has also been released today. You can watch it here. Last night, Nintendo held the first-ever simultaneous launch event that took place at the newly opened Nintendo SAN FRANCISCO, and Nintendo NEW YORK with activations in Rockefeller Center. Fans that attended the coast-to-coast celebration were among the first to usher in this new chapter for Nintendo games. The event culminated when the first systems and games were purchased at 9 p.m. PT in San Francisco and 12 a.m. ET in New York. Each event featured photo ops, and gameplay for Nintendo Switch 2 launch games including Mario Kart World and titles from Nintendo's global publishing and development partners. Photos from the event are included with press materials for this announcement. More information on Nintendo Switch 2, Mario Kart World, titles from Nintendo's global publishing and development partners, and everything launching today can be found below. Nintendo Switch 2 builds on the foundations of the Nintendo Switch system, and delivers a multitude of new features and enhancements, including: New social capabilities with the built-in mic and the new online feature GameChat, where up to 12 friends and family can play games and talk like they're all in the same room, even when they're miles apart. You can also video chat with up to four people if you connect a compatible USB-C camera, such as the Nintendo Switch 2 camera (sold separately). Powerful CPU and GPU capable of enhanced visuals and performance. A large 7.9-inch built-in LCD screen that displays in full HD at 1080p. Joy-Con 2 controllers that magnetically attach to the system. New mouse controls are also possible by sliding them across surfaces, such as a tabletop or even your lap in compatible games. 256 GB storage capacity – 8 times that of Nintendo Switch (a portion of which is reserved for use by the system). USB-C ports on the top and bottom of the system, and a freely adjustable stand for playing and charging in tabletop mode. Crisp audio quality and spatial 3D sound in handheld and tabletop modes. A new dock that enables the Nintendo Switch 2 to output video at up to 4K resolution or play games at up to 120 fps in supported games on compatible displays or TVs. Variable refresh rate (VRR) technology, available in handheld mode, helps games move seamlessly by preventing frame skips and flickering. Accessibility features to support a wide range of gameplay styles. Free updates to enhance the gameplay experience on the Nintendo Switch 2 system will also be available for select Nintendo Switch games 2. By connecting your Nintendo Switch 2 to the internet and performing a system update, you can download free updates for selected games that may improve graphics or add support for various features. These features include GameShare 3, where, with a Nintendo Switch 2 system, you can share supported games with friends and family — even if they don't have the game, and everyone can play together. The contents of these free updates will differ depending on the game. For more information on the free Nintendo Switch 2 updates for select Nintendo Switch titles, please visit the Nintendo website. In addition to GameChat and existing online features with a Nintendo Switch Online membership, today Nintendo Switch 2 owners with a paid Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership gain access to upgrade packs 4 for both The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom games. These upgrade packs allow players to enjoy the enhanced Nintendo Switch 2 Editions of both titles at no additional cost if they have the Nintendo Switch version of the games. Additionally, Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members who have a Nintendo Switch 2 system can access the new Nintendo GameCube – Nintendo Classics library, featuring F-Zero GX, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker and SOULCALIBUR II at launch today, with clearer image quality and higher resolution than the original releases. Plus, a dedicated wireless controller designed after the original Nintendo GameCube controller will be available for purchase by paid Nintendo Switch Online members 5. Nintendo Switch 2 is now available at a suggested retail price of $449.99 in the United States. Also available today is the Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle 6 at a suggested retail price of $499.99 in the U.S., which includes a system and a digital version of the Mario Kart World game. For more information about Nintendo Switch 2 and accessories, visit Mario Kart World delivers frenzied Mario Kart racing like never before, as well as a series-first: a vast interconnected environment to explore and race across. Players looking to hit the road with Mario and friends can experience: Up to 24 drivers at once – the most in Mario Kart history – race across courses. Reimagined returning modes like Grand Prix competition, where the paths between courses are part of the race, too. Knockout Tour, a new game mode where checkpoints eliminate drivers if they can't keep up with the pack. Free Roam mode, another new game mode, where players can explore, see the sights and more, solo or with friends online. There are hundreds of single-player missions to complete in Free Roam, too. Plus, look forward to hectic faceoffs in the Battle mode! Multiple ways to play together with friends, locally 7 or online 8. This includes local split-screen for up to 4 players on the same system, local wireless play, and competing or exploring with people from around the world (or friends) in online play. Using the new GameChat feature on Nintendo Switch 2, players can talk with friends around the world while playing online. Plus, see their live expressions in-game with the new CameraPlay feature by connecting a compatible USB-C camera to the system (sold separately). Packed with races to win and ways for players to explore at their own pace, Mario Kart World can be enjoyed by both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Mario Kart World is now available in stores, on Nintendo eShop or at at a suggested retail price of $79.99. Launching alongside the Nintendo Switch 2 system and Mario Kart World are over 20 titles for Nintendo Switch 2, including games from Nintendo and a strong lineup from Nintendo's global publishing and development partners. Take a look at some of these exciting titles releasing today: Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour – Enter a virtual exhibition with Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour. Through tech demos, minigames and other interactions, players can explore Nintendo Switch 2 inside and out and get to know the new system in ways they may never have known about otherwise. Split Fiction – Jump between sci-fi and fantasy worlds in this co-op action adventure, where contrasting writers Mio and Zoe have become trapped in a simulation of their own stories. Split Fiction keeps you on the edge of your couch with weird and unexpected moments as players must coordinate and work together to overcome challenges. Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition – For the first time, Nintendo players can step into the shoes of V — a mercenary determined to become a legendary cyberpunk in Night City. With the powerful processing speed and graphical performance of Nintendo Switch 2, every neon-lit street and firefight feels more immersive, making it the most cyberpunk way to play Cyberpunk 2077. Players can aim with greater control with gyro and mouse controls, and intuitively navigate menus with the Nintendo Switch 2 system's touch screen. Players can enjoy the full Cyberpunk 2077 experience, featuring the base game and the critically acclaimed Phantom Liberty spy-thriller expansion. Fortnite – Whether you want to be the last player standing in Battle Royale, headline your own concert with Fortnite Festival, or want to explore LEGO® Fortnite experiences and much more – the choice is yours. Experience Fortnite like never before on Nintendo Switch 2 with 60 fps, a higher resolution, clothing physics, and higher-quality textures, shadows and water rendering. Plus, relive your best Battle Royale matches with the Replay system. Sid Meier's Civilization ® VII – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition — Steer the course of history on Nintendo Switch 2! Featuring new mouse controls that offer a more intuitive experience, players' decisions will shape the cultural lineage of their empire. Construct cities and architectural wonders, improve your civilization with technological breakthroughs, and conquer or cooperate with rival civilizations as you explore the world. Street Fighter 6 – Experience the next evolution of Street Fighter in Street Fighter 6 with three distinct game modes, new gameplay features and enhanced visuals. Fight your way to the top with new game modes exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2 like Local Wireless One on One and Avatar Matches 9. Enjoy new party modes utilizing Joy-Con 2 controllers like Gyro Battle and Calorie Contest. Plus, players can check out three new amiibo figures and 22 amiibo cards at launch. Choose from Street Fighter 6 Years 1-2 Fighters Edition, or the digital version of Street Fighter 6, for Nintendo Switch 2 today. Check out the full list of games available in stores or on Nintendo eShop right now: There are also a wide variety of games set to launch for Nintendo Switch 2 soon, including Donkey Kong Bananza, a new 3D platforming action adventure starring the smashing, bashing, banana-hoarding Donkey Kong (launching July 17); EA SPORTS Madden NFL 26, the latest in the hard-hitting football series (Aug. 14); the explosively outrageous Borderlands 4 (2025); the bewitching roguelike dungeon crawler Hades II (2025); and Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, where Trainers can explore scenic Lumiose City and engage in fierce, real-time Pokémon battles (Oct. 16). That's not all – even more titles are launching in the coming months, like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, Drag x Drive, Kirby Air Riders, Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World (Aug. 28), FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE, ELDEN RING Tarnished Edition, Hollow Knight: Silksong, Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion (Sept. 5), Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment, and Super Mario Party Jamboree - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV (July 24), just to name a few. Anyone eager to try Mario Kart World on Nintendo Switch 2 can attend the Nintendo Switch 2 Demo Events at select Best Buy locations with GameTruck this summer! These demo events will take place on weekends beginning June 7, from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. local time. For more information on these events, please visit Plus, enter the My Nintendo – Nintendo Switch 2 Party with GameTruck Sweepstakes 10 for a chance to win a 2-hour video game party for up to 15 guests. Until Sept. 8, My Nintendo members can redeem 10 My Nintendo Platinum Points to enter, with up to five entries total. Two lucky winners will be selected. For more information, visit the My Nintendo website. Look out for continuing Nintendo Switch 2 content in the free Nintendo Today! smart device app 11 for iOS and Android. Visit this page for more information. Remember that Nintendo Switch 2 features parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about other Nintendo Switch 2 features, visit 1 Internet, Nintendo Switch Online membership and Nintendo Account required for online features, including GameChat. Compatible USB camera required for video features. Not available in all countries. Terms and GameChat requirements apply. Games, systems, memberships and some accessories sold separately. Until March 31, 2026, GameChat can be enjoyed for free. Afterwards, a paid Nintendo Switch Online membership will be required. 2 Some Nintendo Switch games may not be supported on or fully compatible with Nintendo Switch 2. Visit for compatibility information. 3 Nintendo Switch 2 system must initiate GameShare session. Users who receive software via GameShare can only play the software during the GameChat session in which it was shared. Shared game will not be playable after the chat ends. 4 Full version of the game required to use the content for that game. Sold separately. For details, visit 5 Limit one purchase per Nintendo Account with paid Nintendo Switch Online membership. Controller ships to U.S. and Canada only. Offer not available in all countries or for free trial memberships. Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership required to access Nintendo GameCube – Nintendo Classics collection of games. This controller is optional and not required to play the Nintendo GameCube - Nintendo Classics collection of games. System update required. 6 Limited time production through Fall 2025 (available while supplies last). 7 Additional games, systems and/or accessories may be required for multiplayer mode. Sold separately. 8 Nintendo Switch Online membership (sold separately) and Nintendo Account required for online features. Membership auto-renews after initial term at the then-current price unless canceled. Not available in all countries. Internet access required for online features. Terms apply. 9 Additional accessories, games and/or systems may be required for multiplayer mode, sold separately. 10 NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Void where prohibited. Open to legal residents of the 48 contiguous United States (excluding Alaska, Hawaii and US Territories) who are 13 years old or older. Sweepstakes begins 10:00AM PT on 6/4/2025 and ends at 11:00PM PT on 9/8/2025. To enter, you must (1) have a Nintendo Account (if you do not have a Nintendo Account you can register for one at (2) visit (3) sign in to your Nintendo Account, and (4) redeem 10 Platinum Points per entry at the My Nintendo – Nintendo Switch 2 Party with GameTruck Sweepstakes page ( as stated in Official Rules. There will be two (2) winners. Each winner will receive one (1) 2-hour video game party package for up to 15 participants (ARV $499.00). Total ARV of all prizes: $998.00 USD. A Nintendo Account is required to receive and redeem points. Terms apply ( Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received. Details and restrictions apply. For Official Rules, visit Sponsor: Nintendo of America Inc., 4600 150th Avenue NE, Redmond, WA 98052. 11 Nintendo Switch Online membership (sold separately) and Nintendo Account required. Not available in all countries. Internet and compatible smart device required to use app. Data charges may apply. Terms apply. About Nintendo: Nintendo Co., Ltd., headquartered in Kyoto, Japan, has been providing a wide range of entertainment products and experiences since its founding in 1889, beginning with the manufacture and sale of Hanafuda playing cards. Since the 1983 release of the Family Computer (Famicom) system in Japan, and continuing through Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo's focus has been the development, manufacturing, and sale of its gaming systems and software. To date, Nintendo has sold more than 5.9 billion video games and over 860 million hardware units globally, and has created franchises such as Mario ™, Donkey Kong ™, The Legend of Zelda ™, Pokémon ™, Metroid ™, Kirby ™, Animal Crossing ™, Pikmin ™, and Splatoon ™. Nintendo strives to expand the number of people who have access to its characters and worlds. Its continuing mission is to put smiles on the faces of everyone it touches with unique entertainment experiences, centered on its integrated video game hardware and software products. A wholly owned subsidiary, Nintendo of America Inc., based in Redmond, Wash., serves as headquarters for operations in the Americas. For more information about Nintendo, please visit the company's website at Note to editors: Nintendo press materials are available at a password-protected site. To obtain a login, please register on the site.
San Francisco Chronicle
41 minutes ago
- San Francisco Chronicle
Nintendo Switch 2 launch, after an 8 year wait, draws big lines
TOKYO (AP) — Eager customers lined up outside electronics stores hours in advance in Tokyo on Thursday to collect their pre-ordered Nintendo Switch 2 video game consoles. The much anticipated Switch2 is an upgrade to its eight-year-old predecessor with new social features meant to draw players into online gaming. The new consoles were sold through a competitive lottery system that Nintendo said got about 2.2 million applications in Japan alone. Outside the official draw, some retailers offered their own lotteries to pre-order the devices. Koji Takahashi was among those who missed out on the official draw but he was selected in the second round of a lottery held by a major electronics retailer in Japan. He was first in line waiting outside the store, arriving four hours ahead of its opening. He hoped to secure a limited supply of Nintendo accessories to buy along with his pre-ordered Switch 2. 'I feel very sorry for those who weren't successful in the lottery. But I also had tough time getting this far, so I hope they forgive me!' Takahashi said. The new console comes with a larger and higher resolution screen than its predecessor, with improved processing power, offering smoother and more vivid graphics. Nintendo has said it expects to sell 15 million Switch 2 consoles for the fiscal year through March 2026. The company has promised to roll out attractive software for the Switch 2 later this year, including 'The Legend of Zelda' games, a Pokemon title and a Kirby game, as well as offerings from outside software companies. Nintendo is capitalizing on the launch with the opening of a store in San Francisco and the Super Nintendo World amusement facility in Orlando, Florida, both set for this month.
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
Nintendo Switch 2 launch, after an 8 year wait, draws big lines
TOKYO (AP) — Eager customers lined up outside electronics stores hours in advance in Tokyo on Thursday to collect their pre-ordered Nintendo Switch 2 video game consoles. The much anticipated Switch2 is an upgrade to its eight-year-old predecessor with new social features meant to draw players into online gaming. The new consoles were sold through a competitive lottery system that Nintendo said got about 2.2 million applications in Japan alone. Outside the official draw, some retailers offered their own lotteries to pre-order the devices. Koji Takahashi was among those who missed out on the official draw but he was selected in the second round of a lottery held by a major electronics retailer in Japan. He was first in line waiting outside the store, arriving four hours ahead of its opening. He hoped to secure a limited supply of Nintendo accessories to buy along with his pre-ordered Switch 2. 'I feel very sorry for those who weren't successful in the lottery. But I also had tough time getting this far, so I hope they forgive me!' Takahashi said. The new console comes with a larger and higher resolution screen than its predecessor, with improved processing power, offering smoother and more vivid graphics. Nintendo has said it expects to sell 15 million Switch 2 consoles for the fiscal year through March 2026. The company has promised to roll out attractive software for the Switch 2 later this year, including 'The Legend of Zelda' games, a Pokemon title and a Kirby game, as well as offerings from outside software companies. Nintendo is capitalizing on the launch with the opening of a store in San Francisco and the Super Nintendo World amusement facility in Orlando, Florida, both set for this month.
