How to Download Digital Games on the Switch 2

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Due to the implementation of the Virtual Card system, it’s no longer straightforward to download games on shared consoles, unlike before when you could just visit the eShop and click ‘download’.

Regardless if it’s a new title for the Switch console or exclusive content for its upcoming version, here’s a simple method for players to transfer previously bought games to their new Switch 2 system. This tutorial will walk you through the process.

How to Download Games on Switch 2

When buying a game from the eShop or using a code, players can opt for an immediate download, which is the primary method of acquiring games on Switch 2. But, if they choose to save it or postpone the download, they will need to discover another means to reaccess it later.

Previously, to grab games for my Nintendo Switch, all I needed to do was log into my account on the eShop app, pick any game I owned, and start the download. But with the introduction of Virtual Cards, that’s no longer the case. Now, when I want to get a digital game, I have to use this new system, unless I’ve already got the game saved in my console’s library. If that’s the case, I can just open up the Switch 2 library, pick the game, navigate to the Software Update tab, and then choose “Redownload Software“, which kicks off the download without much fuss.

How to Download Games via Virtual Card on Switch 2

The preferred method for downloading games on Switch 2 usually involves utilizing the Virtual Console option, and this can be found as the third icon from the right when you navigate through the bottom menu on the home screen of your Switch 2 device.

To get games onto the Nintendo Switch 2, users need to access the Virtual Card menu, pick the game they wish to play, tap on ‘Options’, followed by selecting ‘Download Data’.

If gamers are utilizing their main gaming system and own the software, they won’t require inserting the Virtual Card onto the console to play it. However, when using an additional console, players can access games they’ve purchased without needing the Virtual Card; yet, others won’t be able to play these games without it.

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2025-06-06 00:23