Old Nintendo Switch 2 accounts remain under suspension following a content creator's experience buying a used Bayo 3 copy on eBay, prompting a warning to fellow gamers.
In a recent turn of events, Switch 2 owners have been facing potential consequences when purchasing used games that have been previously 'dumped' or 'ripped'. This is due to Nintendo's stringent anti-piracy measures, which aim to combat the distribution of unauthorised copies of their games.
The primary concern arises when Nintendo detects that the unique identifier code on a game cartridge is being used on multiple consoles. If a game was dumped onto a flashcart and played elsewhere, it can trigger a ban of the Nintendo account or even the Switch 2 console itself from accessing online services. A user reported being banned after patching used Switch game cards bought off Facebook Marketplace because the cartridges had been leaked or pirated previously. The ban restricted access to online features, including the eShop and online multiplayer.
Once a ban is in place, the console loses access to online services such as the eShop, multiplayer games, YouTube apps, and cloud save functionality. This effectively limits the functionality and enjoyment of the Switch 2 device.
In some cases, legitimate owners of secondhand games may inadvertently be caught in these anti-piracy measures. The console or account may get banned even though the buyer legitimately purchased the physical cartridge, creating a frustrating situation.
However, there is a glimmer of hope. Users have been able to resolve bans by contacting Nintendo support and providing proof of purchase. The bans have been lifted if Nintendo verifies the legitimacy of the purchase. Yet, the process may be inconvenient, and the risk of being banned might deter buying used Switch games from unofficial sources.
Nintendo is actively combating piracy, with even an FBI crackdown on piracy sites supplying dumped Switch games. The Switch 2's anti-piracy tech, including the unique cartridge identifiers and detection of simultaneous online use of the same key, has tightened the security further, but also created unintended hassles for some consumers.
In light of these developments, Switch 2 owners are advised to exercise caution when purchasing preowned Switch games to avoid this inconvenience and potential loss of online access.
Sources: [1] https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Support/Switch/Safety/1353508939/What-is-piracy-and-how-does-it-affect-Nintendo-Switch-games-and-my-Nintendo-account [2] https://www.nintendo.com/consumer/help/en_na/kbs/articles/310291948/what-is-piracy-and-how-does-it-affect-nintendo-switch-games-and-my-nintendo-account [3] https://www.nintendo.com/consumer/help/en_na/kbs/articles/310291948/what-is-piracy-and-how-does-it-affect-nintendo-switch-games-and-my-nintendo-account [4] https://www.nintendo.com/consumer/help/en_na/kbs/articles/310291948/what-is-piracy-and-how-does-it-affect-nintendo-switch-games-and-my-nintendo-account [5] https://www.nintendo.com/consumer/help/en_na/kbs/articles/310291948/what-is-piracy-and-how-does-it-affect-nintendo-switch-games-and-my-nintendo-account
The unintended hassles from Nintendo's anti-piracy measures have led some Switch 2 owners to be wary of purchasing used games, as subsequently playing them on different consoles may trigger account or console bans, restricting access to online services such as multiplayer games and the eShop. Legitimate owners of secondhand games may inadvertently find themselves in this situation, causing frustration and inconvenience, emphasizing the need for careful consideration when buying preowned Switch games.
With the rise in piracy on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, it's essential for smartphone users to remain vigilant when purchasing used Switch games, as playing dumped or pirated versions of games can lead to unforeseen consequences in the form of console or account bans. This highlights the importance of technology in combating piracy, but also its potential drawbacks for consumers.
