by Key Takeaways
- Due to business difficulties, Nintendo intends to terminate its Switch eShop and online services in China by March 31, 2026.
- Beginning November 27, 2024, consumers will be able to claim up to four complimentary games from a limited selection as compensation.
- With a new console rumored to be on the way, the closure begs the question of Nintendo’s future strategy in China.
Nintendo has stated that it would phase off its online services and Nintendo Switch eShop in China starting in 2026.
Users will no longer be able to buy games or other software from the eShop after it closes on March 31, 2026. Players will also no longer be able to download previously bought games, use codes, or obtain DLC by May 15, 2026. Along with disabling online multiplayer and other related capabilities, these closures will also terminate all network services.
With the help of a collaboration with Tencent, a major local IT company, the Switch was introduced to China with much anticipation. However, there was only one first-party game available when the platform originally arrived, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. Other titles have since been localized, although the system has not been as successful as it has been in other areas.
Nintendo is giving Chinese Switch customers the chance to claim up to four free titles as recompense for the impending closure.
Eligible gamers can choose from a selection of well-known games such Super Mario Odyssey, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and New Pokémon Snap between November 27, 2024, and the closure date in 2026. Users must connect an active WeChat account to their console in order to take advantage of the promotion. No matter how many devices are linked to the account, each WeChat account can only participate in the campaign once.
There has been no formal justification for the decision to terminate services. It does, however, fit with ongoing speculation that the successor to the Switch may be released as early as 2025.
Although Nintendo’s regional difficulties may have an impact on the company’s next console initiatives, it is unclear what the shutdown will signify for the company’s future presence in China.
