Nintendo has recently revised its user agreement and privacy policy. While few individuals typically read such documents, this update carries significant implications: breaching the policy may lead to Nintendo permanently disabling your console. This latest amendment is part of Nintendo’s ongoing efforts against piracy and emulation, but it’s notable that the wording varies by region.
For residents in the United States, the policy states, “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.”
In contrast, as reported by Eurogamer, the clause for users in the UK and Europe mentions, “Such unauthorized use of a Digital Product may result in the Digital Product becoming unusable.”
Nintendo has not clarified the exact implications of “unusable,” but it likely suggests more severe consequences than a mere account ban. This approach is in line with Nintendo’s historically aggressive stance against piracy and modifications. The ongoing legal action involving Palworld serves as a prime example, forcing developers to alter aspects of their game that closely resemble Nintendo’s own properties.
Many critics argue that Nintendo’s strict measures hinder game preservation, while the company maintains that these actions are crucial for safeguarding its interests.
In conjunction with updates to its user agreement, Nintendo has also revised its privacy policy ahead of the Nintendo Switch 2 launch. A key point addresses the new Game Chat feature, stating: “Communication content related to specific features, such as video and voice chats, may be recorded and stored for up to 24 hours on the user devices of all participants in a chat. This allows users to report potentially inappropriate interactions that may violate relevant laws and/or the Nintendo Code of Conduct.”
This policy enables Nintendo to take measures against players who breach guidelines. While the Switch 2 comes equipped with a built-in microphone, the camera accessory remains optional. The updated policy has raised privacy concerns, especially given that the Nintendo Switch 2 is aimed at family audiences; however, Nintendo asserts that the recordings are intended to foster a “safe and family-friendly online environment.”
