Nintendo Switch 2 account bans continue: warning after buying old copy of Bayo 3

Original Article ↗ Hacker News Discussion ↗

Scope of the “Ban” (Brick vs Online Lockout)

  • Several commenters stress the console isn’t technically bricked: it loses online services (multiplayer, updates, redownloads) but still runs existing games.
  • Others argue that for people who specifically bought the device for online play or digital access, this is “effectively bricked,” functional difference or not.
  • There’s confusion over whether banned users can redownload purchased titles or only keep what’s already installed; behavior seems restrictive and is viewed as “very heavy” even if not full bricking.
  • Some point out that most people cannot or will not install custom firmware as a workaround.

Used Games, MIG Flash, and Who Gets Punished

  • A key concern: Nintendo bans hardware when the same cartridge ID is seen multiple times (e.g., MIG Flash dumps), but the system can’t reliably tell pirate from innocent second-hand buyer.
  • Many see punishing both sides (or any side when it’s ambiguous) as morally unacceptable; some say Nintendo should punish neither if they can’t distinguish.
  • Commenters recall prior warnings that buying used Switch 2 carts could become a “roulette” because of this detection.
  • There’s disagreement about the specific incident:
    • Some say this case is clearly tied to the owner using a piracy-focused device and is being misrepresented as a used-game problem.
    • Others cite reports of innocent users being banned over used carts and bans later being reversed, suggesting a real risk. Exact timeline/evidence is described as unclear.

Resale, Digital Lock‑In, and Trust

  • Many see this as part of a long pattern: hostility to modding/piracy, erosion of resale rights, and digital purchases tied to fragile online services.
  • Shutting down Miiverse and older eShops is cited as evidence Nintendo doesn’t honor long-term digital ownership or platform features.
  • Some predict or fear a shift toward carts as mere license keys, further undermining physical media.

Consumer Reactions and Alternatives

  • A sizable group vows to skip Switch 2, avoid online-dependent games, or rely on emulation/PC/Steam Deck instead.
  • Others argue Nintendo still has no real substitute: unique first‑party games, kid‑friendly ecosystem, portability, and massive sales suggest most buyers accept — or ignore — these risks.