Nintendo EShop: Change Region Settings Guide

Hey guys! Ever wondered how to change your Nintendo eShop region settings? Maybe you're moving, or perhaps you want to access games that aren't available in your current location. Whatever the reason, I've got you covered. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to change your Nintendo eShop region settings. Let's dive in!

Why Change Your Nintendo eShop Region?

There are several reasons why you might want to change your Nintendo eShop region. First, different regions have different game libraries. Some games are exclusive to certain regions, meaning you won't be able to download them unless you switch your region. Second, game prices can vary significantly between regions. You might find that a game is cheaper in another region, allowing you to save some cash. Third, some games are released earlier in certain regions. If you're eager to play a game as soon as possible, changing your region might give you early access. Finally, DLC availability can also differ by region. Some DLC packs might be available in one region but not in another. So, changing your region can unlock additional content for your favorite games. However, keep in mind that changing your region can have some drawbacks. You might lose access to previously purchased games or DLC if they're not available in the new region. Additionally, you might encounter language barriers or compatibility issues with certain games. So, it's important to weigh the pros and cons before making the switch. Now that you know why you might want to change your region, let's move on to how to do it.

Understanding Nintendo Account Regions

Before we get started, it's important to understand how Nintendo accounts and regions work. Your Nintendo account is tied to a specific region, which determines the eShop you have access to. This region setting affects the games you can purchase, the prices you see, and the languages available. When you create a Nintendo account, you're asked to choose a country or region. This choice is important because it determines the eShop you'll be using. For example, if you choose the United States, you'll have access to the North American eShop. If you choose Japan, you'll have access to the Japanese eShop. It's important to note that you can only have one region setting per Nintendo account. If you want to access multiple eShops, you'll need to create multiple Nintendo accounts. Each account can be linked to a different region, allowing you to switch between them as needed. However, keep in mind that you can't transfer games or funds between accounts. So, if you purchase a game on one account, you won't be able to play it on another account unless you purchase it again. Additionally, some games may have region locks, meaning they can only be played on consoles from the same region. So, it's important to check the region compatibility of a game before purchasing it. Understanding these basics will help you make informed decisions when changing your Nintendo eShop region settings. Now that you know how Nintendo accounts and regions work, let's move on to the steps for changing your region.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Nintendo eShop Region

Ready to change your Nintendo eShop region? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Create a New Nintendo Account

The easiest and safest way to access a different eShop region is to create a new Nintendo Account. First, go to the Nintendo Account website on your computer or mobile device. Then, click on the "Create Account" button and follow the instructions. Make sure to choose the correct country or region for the eShop you want to access. You'll need to provide a valid email address and create a strong password. Once you've created your account, you'll need to verify your email address by clicking on the link in the confirmation email. After verifying your email, you can log in to your new Nintendo Account. Remember, you'll need a separate email address for each Nintendo Account you create. So, if you already have a Nintendo Account, you'll need to use a different email address for your new account. Creating a new Nintendo Account is the recommended method because it allows you to keep your existing account and purchases separate from your new region. This way, you won't risk losing access to your previously purchased games or DLC. Additionally, creating a new account is relatively simple and straightforward, making it the easiest option for most users. Now that you've created your new Nintendo Account, let's move on to the next step.

Step 2: Link the New Account to Your Nintendo Switch

Now that you have a new Nintendo Account, you need to link it to your Nintendo Switch. First, turn on your Nintendo Switch and go to the System Settings menu. Then, select "Users" and click on "Add User." Follow the prompts to create a new user profile on your Nintendo Switch. When prompted, choose the option to link a Nintendo Account. Enter the email address and password for the new Nintendo Account you created in Step 1. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the linking process. Once your account is linked, you'll be able to access the eShop for the region associated with your new Nintendo Account. You can switch between different user profiles on your Nintendo Switch to access different eShops. Each user profile can be linked to a different Nintendo Account, allowing you to have multiple eShops on the same console. However, keep in mind that you can only have one active eShop at a time. To switch between eShops, you'll need to switch between user profiles. Additionally, some games may require you to purchase them again on the new account if they're not available in the new region. So, it's important to check the availability of your favorite games before switching regions. Linking your new Nintendo Account to your Nintendo Switch is a crucial step in the process. It allows you to access the eShop for the region associated with your new account and download games and DLC from that region. Now that you've linked your new account, let's move on to the final step.

Step 3: Access the eShop

With your new account linked, accessing the eShop is a breeze. First, from the Nintendo Switch home screen, select the user profile linked to your new Nintendo Account. Then, click on the eShop icon. You'll be taken to the eShop for the region associated with your new account. You can now browse and purchase games, DLC, and other content from that region. Keep in mind that the prices and availability of games may vary depending on the region. So, be sure to check the details before making a purchase. Additionally, some games may have region locks, meaning they can only be played on consoles from the same region. So, it's important to check the region compatibility of a game before purchasing it. When purchasing games from a different region, you may need to use a payment method that is accepted in that region. For example, if you're purchasing games from the Japanese eShop, you may need to use a Japanese credit card or a Japanese Nintendo eShop gift card. You can often purchase Nintendo eShop gift cards from online retailers or local stores. Accessing the eShop with your new account is the final step in the process. It allows you to explore the games and content available in the region associated with your new account and download them to your Nintendo Switch. Now that you know how to access the eShop, you can start enjoying games from different regions.

Important Considerations

Before you start switching regions, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First, changing your region can affect your access to previously purchased games and DLC. If a game or DLC is not available in the new region, you may not be able to play it. So, it's important to check the availability of your favorite games before switching regions. Second, you may need to use a payment method that is accepted in the new region. For example, if you're purchasing games from the Japanese eShop, you may need to use a Japanese credit card or a Japanese Nintendo eShop gift card. Third, some games may have region locks, meaning they can only be played on consoles from the same region. So, it's important to check the region compatibility of a game before purchasing it. Finally, changing your region can affect your Nintendo Switch Online subscription. If you have a Nintendo Switch Online subscription, it may not be valid in the new region. So, you may need to purchase a new subscription for the new region. Keep these considerations in mind before changing your Nintendo eShop region settings to avoid any potential issues.

Conclusion

Changing your Nintendo eShop region settings can open up a whole new world of games and content. By following this guide, you can easily access different eShops and enjoy games from around the world. Just remember to consider the potential drawbacks and keep the important considerations in mind before making the switch. Happy gaming, everyone!