Nintendo Warns It May Brick Hacked Switch Consoles

Nintendo added a new warning to its user agreement which states that console modification or hacking could result in permanently disabling your Switch console.

The new terms which Nintendo introduced in May 2025 apply to all Nintendo Account Services, including games, downloads, and online access, for both current and future Switch models, as noted by Ars Technica.

The updated rules say users may not “bypass, modify, decrypt, defeat, tamper with, or otherwise circumvent” any system functions or protections, as reported by Game File.

Nintendo now states:“You acknowledge that if you fail to comply with the foregoing restrictions Nintendo may render the Nintendo Account Services and/or the applicable Nintendo device permanently unusable in whole or in part,” reported Game File.

Ars Technica explains that using third-party flash carts or installing unauthorized game copies would result in console bricking, which makes the device completely unusable.

The company has already banned online access for hacked consoles, but this new language indicates Nintendo could now disable consoles even when they are offline. It’s unclear how they would do this, or if users could fix affected devices, as reported by Ars Technica.

The EULA also allows Nintendo to suspend a user’s access before a violation occurs, if it has “a reasonable belief such a violation… will occur.” The company says this may be necessary “to prevent harm to other users or the Nintendo Account Services,” noted Ars Technica.

The change comes at a time when emulator use and piracy are hot topics in gaming. The warning appears to be a direct response to growing concerns over unauthorized game use and hacking.

Game File reports that Nintendo has made over 100 edits to its user agreement and privacy policy in this update.