Key Takeaways
- Tencent will shut down all Nintendo Switch Online services in China by 2026, affecting millions of gamers.
- Nintendo’s successful partnership with Tencent in China contributed to Switch’s popularity despite region locks.
- Owners of activated Switch consoles in China can get redemption codes for free Nintendo games until May 15, 2026.
As a long-time Nintendo fan who has experienced the joy of gaming across multiple generations and regions, I find myself both disheartened and intrigued by the news that Tencent will be shutting down all Nintendo Switch Online services in China by 2026.
Tencent has declared that they will cease operation of all Nintendo Switch Online services within China by 2026. This decision means millions of Chinese gaming enthusiasts will no longer be able to utilize Nintendo Switch Online, as the closure will happen in different phases.
Starting from 2019, Tencent has been responsible for distributing Nintendo Switches in China. This collaboration turned out to be fruitful as Nintendo held a significant lead in China’s video game market during this time, with the Switch gaining popularity among Chinese consumers. Remarkably, this success was achieved despite regional restrictions that only allow consoles sold in China to play games authorized by Chinese regulatory bodies.
Tencent has officially announced that they’re closing down Nintendo Switch Online operations in China by the year 2026. Starting from March 31, 2026, the Chinese Nintendo eShop will no longer sell games or software and free trials for Nintendo Switch Online will no longer be available. Code redemptions will still work until May 15, but after that date, game downloads will stop. On May 15, 2026, all other online services will also come to an end, effectively marking the end of Switch Online in China.
Nintendo Switch Online is Shutting Down in China in 2026
Starting from November 27, 2024, until March 31, 2026, owners of a Nintendo Switch console purchased in China, who were impacted by the shutdown, will have the opportunity to redeem four free games via WeChat. This includes popular titles like Super Mario Odyssey, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and Pokemon Let’s Go! Eevee. While the reason for the console’s shutdown remains unclear, this offer softens the impact by allowing affected gamers to obtain these great Nintendo Switch games at no cost.
So far, Nintendo hasn’t publicly unveiled its next-generation console following the Switch. There’s been a lot of buzz regarding a possible launch date, but nothing’s set in stone yet. Recently, Nintendo hinted that they would be showcasing the Switch 2 within their current fiscal year, which concludes in March 2025. This news has Nintendo enthusiasts quite thrilled, considering all the speculations about the upcoming console. Just like the launch date, details about the release schedule for the Switch successor are scarce, but fans can only hope that Nintendo delivers some big titles to ensure a successful debut.
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2024-11-26 20:05