In anticipation of the upcoming Switch 2 launch, Nintendo has made significant adjustments to its Nintendo Account User Agreement and has clearly stated for the first time that if players violate rules by modding their consoles or installing unauthorized software, Nintendo reserves the right to Permanent expiration the player’s device. This revision of terms is broad in scope and meticulously worded, raising concerns among many users that even legal modifications and backup activities could be deemed violations, increasing the risk for gamers.
According to an email notice from users in the United States, the new terms will officially take effect on May 7, replacing all previous versions of the agreement. This update introduces as many as 100 changes, with the most controversial clause being that if Nintendo determines a user has violated the agreement, they may opt to suspend the account or the console, either wholly or partially Cannot be used.
The new agreement clearly outlines several prohibited actions, including copying, modifying, dismantling, and reverse engineering. It forbids users from circumventing or interfering with account features or protective measures through any means, including using any software or hardware that prevents the service from operating as intended by the official guidelines. Furthermore, Nintendo does not permit users to install or use unauthorized services, nor does it allow the development of derivative works without prior written authorization. If any of these terms are violated, Nintendo reserves the right to block the user’s account, or even disable the console Transform into brick.
Although the terms state that under certain circumstances Legal permission may be exempt, the new agreement removes the previously clear reservation clauses. This means that even if certain actions are legally protected, users may still risk losing access to their devices.
The wording of the agreement in the UK is slightly different, but it still emphasizes whether users are authorized to use digital products. If any unauthorized actions are involved, such as reverse engineering, copying, leasing, or modifying, then the software may become Cannot be used.
The new agreement also modifies the privacy policy, adding provisions that Nintendo may monitor the online voice communications of Switch users to maintain A safe and family-friendly online environment and detect any violations of account agreements, illegal activities, or harmful behaviors. Analysis suggests that this update indicates Nintendo’s intention to strengthen control over the use of the console and services before the release of the Switch 2, aiming to reduce hacking and piracy.
It’s worth noting that Nintendo has previously pursued legal action regarding modded consoles and ROM backups in multiple cases. For instance, American internet user Gary Bowser was fined over ten million dollars, and there have been heavy penalties for modded Switch players in Japan as well. Many users and developers have long argued that making ROM backups or customizing hardware and systems to enhance performance, in the absence of piracy, should be considered legitimate usage rights and deserve legal protection.
