Nintendo warns of Switch bricking for policy breaches

Nintendo has strengthened its user agreement, introducing stricter terms targeting players who modify their Switch consoles, use emulators, or engage in any form of unauthorized activity.

As reported by Game File, users have received notifications confirming Nintendo's update to both its Account Agreement and Privacy Policy. These revised terms—effective May 7—replace all previous versions and apply universally to existing and new Nintendo Account holders. Game File's analysis reveals approximately 100 modifications between the old and new agreements.

Previously (until May 6), users agreed not to "lease, rent, sublicense, publish, copy, modify, adapt, translate, reverse engineer, decompile or disassemble" any Nintendo Account Services without explicit permission or legal authorization.

The updated U.S. agreement now features significantly expanded restrictions:

"Without limitation, you agree that you may not (a) publish, copy, modify, reverse engineer, lease, rent, decompile, disassemble, distribute, offer for sale, or create derivative works of any portion of the Nintendo Account Services; (b) bypass, modify, decrypt, defeat, tamper with, or otherwise circumvent any of the functions or protections of the Nintendo Account Services, including through the use of any hardware or software that would cause the Nintendo Account Services to operate other than in accordance with its documentation and intended use; (c) obtain, install or use any unauthorized copies of Nintendo Account Services; or (d) exploit the Nintendo Account Services in any manner other than to use them in accordance with the applicable documentation and intended use, in each case, without Nintendo’s written consent or express authorization, or unless otherwise expressly permitted by applicable law. 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."

Nintendo Life notes slight regional variations—UK users specifically agree that digital products are exclusively licensed for personal, non-commercial use. The updated UK terms explicitly prohibit modification attempts that could render software unusable.

While Nintendo hasn't clarified its definition of "unusable," the terminology suggests the company may disable ("brick") devices violating its policies. Revised privacy clauses also disclose Nintendo's right to monitor Switch voice chats to maintain a family-friendly environment and detect policy violations.

Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery

These policy updates likely respond to several factors—Nintendo's ongoing anti-piracy efforts and the imminent June 5 launch of its next-generation console. Switch 2 pre-orders opened April 24 at $449.99, selling out rapidly amid unprecedented demand.

Nintendo has cautioned U.S. customers ordering through its My Nintendo Store that high volumes may delay launch-day deliveries. For purchasing guidance, consult IGN's comprehensive Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order guide.