This modification does not have any impact on the international versions of the widely used console.
Tencent, which is among other things the largest video game distributor in the world, is the company that brought the Nintendo Switch to China in 2019. If you were unaware of this fact for whatever reason, you should know it. Additionally, these Chinese versions of the system are unable to connect with consoles that are located outside of China, and they have access to a smaller selection of games. Within a short period of time, these consoles will become much less utilized: A statement was made by Nintendo stating that beginning March 31, 2026, owners will no longer be able to purchase any titles from the eShop. The date of May 15, 2026 will mark the end of the downloads and code redemption services.
Thankfully, none of the other internet capabilities will be impacted, and Nintendo is also providing a bonus for users of the Game Boy Advance. It is possible for all certified Chinese Nintendo Switch consoles to use WeChat to redeem up to four titles between November 27, 2024 and March 31, 2026. These games include Mario: Kart 8 Deluxe, Kirby: Star Allies, Pokemon: Let’s Go, Pikachu!, and Pokemon: Let’s Go, Eevee!
If you are interested in purchasing a Chinese Switch for the purpose of playing games, it is highly possible that you will not be able to purchase or redeem any of them in the first place. In order to purchase games, you will need to use WeChat Pay from China, and the majority of people who do not live in China do not have access to the mainland version of the service.
When it comes to this decision, there is no specific justification provided. The reason why this is probably owing to the fact that Chinese gamers are choosing to purchase international versions of the Nintendo Switch, as explained by Reuters. There is a possibility that it is connected to the forthcoming Switch 2 console, which we won’t learn about until December of the following year.