Summary
- Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers won’t work for Switch 2 exclusives.
- Vouchers offered at $100 allow Nintendo Switch Online members to save on first-party games.
- While Switch 2 games are not eligible, speculations suggest cross-platform titles may still be included.
Nintendo has confirmed that its Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers program will not extend to Switch 2 exclusives. Originally introduced in 2019, the voucher system allowed Nintendo Switch Online subscribers to purchase a set of two vouchers, which could then be redeemed for select digital Nintendo Switch titles, offering a modest discount on first-party games. This provided players with an opportunity to save on major titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Paper Mario, and Pokemon Scarlet and Violet.
The Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers program is an exclusive benefit for Nintendo Switch Online members, allowing them to purchase two vouchers for £84/$100. Each voucher can then be exchanged for a selected first-party digital game, making it a valuable deal for those looking to grab two major titles at a reduced price. However, eligibility for the program is tied to an active, paid Nintendo Switch Online membership, whether individual or family. If a membership lapses before a voucher is redeemed, players will still be able to use it, provided they reactivate their subscription before the voucher expires.
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With the Switch 2 on the horizon, many assumed the program would continue for the new console’s upcoming lineup. However, a recent update on the Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers website has made it clear that this won’t be the case. “Please note that Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers cannot be redeemed for Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive games,” the company announced. The message is brief but definitive, telling gamers the voucher system will remain available for existing Switch 1 titles, including upcoming releases like Donkey Kong Country Returns HD and Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition. However, anticipated games like Mario Kart 9, should it be a Switch 2 exclusive, won’t be eligible.
Nintendo Confirms Switch Game Vouchers Won’t Apply to Switch 2 Exclusives
While the wording specifically mentions “Switch 2 exclusives,” there is speculation that cross-platform titles could still be included in the offer. Notably, games like Pokemon Legends: Z-A and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond are still labeled as Switch 1 releases, suggesting that some titles playable on both consoles may remain voucher-eligible. That’s assuming Z-A and Metroid Prime 4 will be cross-gen games that are also released for the Switch 2, of course.
The removal of voucher eligibility for Switch 2 games isn’t the only concerning update for Nintendo fans. Just weeks before this announcement, reports surfaced that Nintendo Switch Online subscription prices are increasing in Latin America. The price hikes vary by country and membership tier, but Brazil has seen some of the steepest increases. The standard NSO individual plan in Brazil is rising by 20%, bringing its new price to R$120 (~USD $20). The NSO + Expansion Pack individual membership is set to increase by 14%, while the NSO Family membership is facing the most significant hike, jumping 25% in price.
As previously confirmed, the Switch 2 will feature backward compatibility, meaning existing Switch software will be playable on the new console. Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa recently addressed the long-rumored feature, confirming, “Switch software will also be playable on the successor to the Nintendo Switch.” This key feature has the potential to significantly boost early adoption rates for the next-gen console, ensuring that players can bring their existing Nintendo Switch libraries forward without repurchasing games.
Nintendo Switch 2
- Brand
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Nintendo
- Original Release Date
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2025