How to Redeem a Download Code on Nintendo eShop
Description:
Instructions on redeeming a software download code in Nintendo eShop for Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch.
Before you start
You will need:
The download code to be redeemed
Download codes from retailers are found on the receipt or card you were given.
Your Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch console
If you are away from your console, you can redeem a download code online.
A Nintendo Account set to a country/region where Nintendo eShop is available.
Complete These Steps:
Connect your Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch console to the internet.
Select the Nintendo eShop icon on the HOME Menu to launch Nintendo eShop.
Select the account you want to use.
Select Redeem Code on the left side of the screen.
Enter the 16-character download code.
Some retailer cards for Nintendo Switch software will include both a control number and a download code. Make sure that you are entering the download code (no hyphens in the number) and not the control number (has hyphens, e.g. XXXX-A00000-000000, F50EEUR-A00000-000000).
Any letters and symbols not used with prepaid codes (i.e. O, I, Z, commas, hyphens, etc.) will be disabled on the on-screen keyboard.
Select Confirm to confirm. The software will begin downloading once the code has been confirmed.
This indicates that you are trying to redeem a download code for content that is intended for Nintendo Switch 2, not Nintendo Switch.
For more information, read Error Message: This is a Nintendo Switch 2 download code.
If you see a message that your download code has already been used, please read Error Message: This Code Has Already Been Used.
Additional information
The software icon will appear on the HOME Menu with a download status bar. The status bar will disappear once the download is complete.
If you redeemed the download code on a console to which you can load virtual game cards, the software will automatically be loaded to the console when the download is complete.
Codes for Nintendo Switch Online memberships and Nintendo eShop Cards can also be redeemed by following this process.