How to redeem a Nintendo Switch download code

Nintendo download codes are 16 characters long and are redeemed through the Nintendo eShop. The content is tied to a Nintendo Account, which in turn is linked to a user on your console. On a console shared by a family, choosing the right user is the step that most often goes wrong, so it is worth slowing down at that point.

Before you start

• Know which user should own the game. Each user on a Switch has their own linked Nintendo Account. The game is added to whichever account you select in the eShop.
• Check your Nintendo Account's country. The eShop you see depends on the country set on your Nintendo Account, and download codes generally only work in the matching eShop. Our product page lists any activation requirement next to the price.
• Make sure there is room for the download. Larger games may need a microSD card. You can redeem the code first and download later if you need to clear space.

On the console

1. Select Nintendo eShop on the HOME Menu.
2. Choose the user account that should own the game.
3. Select Enter Code (shown as Redeem Code on some versions) in the menu on the left.
4. Enter the 16-character code and select OK.
5. Confirm. The download starts once the code is accepted.

These steps apply to the Nintendo Switch family of consoles. Nintendo occasionally renames items in the eShop menu, so if the exact wording differs, look for the option that mentions a code.

Redeeming away from the console

In some regions, Nintendo also lets you redeem a download code on its website after signing in to your Nintendo Account. If your console is connected to the internet and automatic downloads are switched on, the game then downloads to the console by itself. If the website does not offer this for your country, use the console steps above.

After redeeming

The game's icon appears on the HOME Menu while it downloads. Downloadable content shows up inside the game, usually once you restart it. If you cannot find DLC, open the eShop, select your user, and check the game's page, where installed add-ons are listed.

Typing the code correctly

Sixteen characters is a lot to copy by hand, and a single wrong character is enough for the eShop to reject the code. Use the copy button on your order where you can, or read the code from the confirmation email carefully, one group of four at a time.

If the code is rejected

Nintendo shows an error code alongside the message, usually a number in two parts. Write it down or take a photo of the screen, because it tells our support team exactly what happened.

Email [email protected] with your order number and the error code. Our guide on what to do if a key does not activate covers the rest.

Browse Nintendo titles on the game keys page.