While a new Nintendo console might be on the way, that doesn't mean people have stopped using the Nintendo Switch. The hybrid handheld console has an incredible library of games that includes indie classics and big-name AAA titles. It has become one of the most popular Nintendo consoles ever created, with over 143.42 million units sold.
If you're one of the millions of people who own a Switch, you might be wondering how much time you have to enjoy the full functionality of games that use online services like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Super Smash Bros. Ultimateeither Animal Crossing: New HorizonsWhile the future and logistics behind the rumored Switch 2 remain hazy, we can at least look at Nintendo's past practices to see what the company has done in the past and get an idea of how much time people will have to enjoy its games on the Switch.
Will my Nintendo Switch still be able to play games when the Switch 2 comes out?
In the past, Nintendo has not prevented people from playing its games offline even when the company shut down online functionality. You shouldn't have to worry about continuing to enjoy your games locally. However, online services can still play a central role in enjoying Nintendo games. They can allow people to visit friends' islands online. Animal Crossing: New Horizons or players competing with people around the world in Mario Kart. Even if you don’t play online games or pay for a Nintendo online subscription service, access to online functionality can still affect you because Nintendo also has services that stop working, such as its eShop. Once those eShops were discontinued, users could no longer purchase or download new games to their devices.
How long will Nintendo continue to support online services for the original Nintendo Switch?
As a guide, it’s helpful to look at earlier consoles, such as the Nintendo Wii U and the Nintendo 3DS family of handheld consoles. Nintendo launched the 3DS in the US in spring 2011; the company discontinued the 3DS eShop in 2023 and online services for its games in spring 2024. For those handheld consoles, their game servers were online for around 13 years. As for the Wii U, it came out in 2012 and its online services and eShop were shut down at the same time as the Nintendo 3DS consoles, so they were available for around 12 years for that console.
It's important to note that this example includes devices from before the era of Nintendo's paid online subscriptions, such as Nintendo Switch Online and Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. Prior to this, Nintendo console owners didn't have to pay to use online services, so it's unclear whether the transition from Switch to the rumored Switch 2 will be any different. Additionally, the ending of services sometimes includes exceptions for certain in-game features.
While we can't say how Nintendo will handle the transition to the next generation of consoles, the good news is that people will likely have many more years to enjoy their Nintendo Switch and the full functionality of online services for their favorite games. It's always a sad day when people can no longer download new games, but that day likely won't come for the original Nintendo Switch and its owners for many years to come.