Nintendo’s China Switch eShop Closure: Free Games & 2026 Shutdown

Nintendo’s China Switch eShop Closing in 2026

Nintendo has announced a significant change for its Switch console in China: the eShop and Nintendo Switch Online services will shut down in early 2026. This follows the Chinese government’s new rule limiting children to one hour of daily online game time.

eShop Closure Details

While Nintendo hasn’t provided a specific reason, the eShop will close on April 1, 2026, ending game sales and demo availability. On May 15, 2026, online code redemption will be blocked, preventing access to DLC and other code-based items. Network services will also cease on this date.

Free Games for Chinese Players

As a result of the closure, Chinese players using WeChat can claim up to four free Nintendo games. These include:

• New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
• Super Mario Odyssey
• Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
• Super Mario Party
• Mario Tennis Aces
• Yoshi’s Crafted World
• Flexible Brain School
• Dr. Kawashima’s Brain Exercises
• Kirby Star Allies
• New Pokemon Snap
• Pokemon Go! Pikachu
• Pokemon Let’s Go! Eevee

Uncertain Future

Nintendo hasn’t explained the reasoning behind this decision in a major gaming market. The implications for the Switch 2 or future Nintendo consoles remain unclear.