Nintendo Is Shutting Down Switch eShop and Online Services in China in 2026

Nintendo Is Shutting Down Switch eShop and Online Services in China in 2026

As a long-time Nintendo fan who has followed the company’s journey through various generations of consoles, I must admit that the news about the closure of the Switch eShop and other online services in China by 2026 leaves me with mixed feelings. On one hand, it is disappointing to know that we will no longer be able to download new games or DLC after this period. However, on the other hand, I am grateful for the “Giving Back Plan” announced by Nintendo and Tencent, which allows Chinese customers like myself to redeem up to 4 free games from a selection of popular titles.


As a devoted fan, I must share some disappointing news: by 2026, Nintendo will be ceasing operations for the Switch eShop and all other online services in China. This announcement comes directly from Tencent, our trusted partner responsible for handling Nintendo’s sales within the region. The estimated timeline spans from March 31st, 2026, to May 15th, 2026.

After this period, Nintendo Switch owners in China cannot download any games, DLC, or redeem codes.

36Kr Games explains that the reason for the adjustment is related to changes in their network services, which encompass crucial functions such as variability in e-store data. Usually, a network service provider with a lengthy partnership with Nintendo manages these operations. More specifically, they are responsible for linking the Chinese version of the Switch platform with Nintendo’s network.

Due to certain alterations in the business operations of the network service provider in China, they are now unable to manage these tasks. Unfortunately, Nintendo can’t delegate this work to a different third party, leaving Tencent with no other option. Furthermore, Nintendo appears to be concentrating on the future, particularly the successor of the Switch. Given this focus, it seems logical for them to leave the past behind, despite the disappointment it might cause for Chinese customers.

Nintendo is Making Select Games Available to Their Chinese Customers

Nintendo Is Shutting Down Switch eShop and Online Services in China in 2026

In appreciation of their Chinese customer base, Nintendo and Tencent unveiled the “Appreciation Reward Program.” From 10:00 AM (local time) on November 27th, 2024, until 10:00 PM (local time) on March 31st, 2026, owners of Nintendo Switch consoles purchased in China can utilize their linked WeChat account to obtain a redemption code for up to four of the following games:

  • New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
  • Super Mario Odyssey
  • Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
  • Super Mario Party
  • Mario Tennis Aces
  • Yoshi’s Crafted World
  • Flexible Brain School
  • Dr. Kawashima’s Brain Exercises
  • Kirby Star Allies
  • New Pokémon Snap
  • Pokémon Go! Pikachu
  • Pokémon Let’s Go! Eevee

Nintendo and Tencent pledge to persistently strive to ensure that Chinese Nintendo Switch users can keep experiencing the joy of Nintendo games in the future. Through their partnership, the Switch was initially introduced in China in 2019 – a couple of years following its global unveiling. Given their dedication to bringing Nintendo games to the Chinese market, it’s expected that this collaboration will endure with the successor of the Switch.

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2024-11-26 19:38