Switch Mainland China Version Servers to Permanently Shut Down – Prepare Now to Avoid Bricking
With only 15 days remaining until the complete shutdown of online functionality for the Mainland China Nintendo Switch, the network service will officially cease on May 15, 2026, at 10 PM. The console, once filled with the hopes of many players, will permanently become a standalone device.
The “euthanasia” process for the Mainland China Switch is divided into two phases:
Phase One (March 31st, 10:00 PM): The eShop software sales service has officially stopped. Paid games, DLC, and even free demos can no longer be purchased.
Phase Two (May 15th, 10:00 PM): This is the final “deadline.” Not only will the eShop completely close, but download services and redemption code functionality will also become invalid. After that, even games you have purchased will be permanently unrecoverable if deleted from the device. System updates and game patch downloads will also cease after May 15th.
According to official plans, repair services for the Mainland China Switch and related accessories will officially end on December 31, 2026. At that time, whether it’s the console or the Joy-Con controllers, you may face the awkward situation of having nowhere to get them repaired.
To ensure it can function as a purely standalone device and continue playing games on the Mainland China Switch, it is recommended that you take the following steps:
Redeem all redemption codes: Whether obtained through free compensation or purchased elsewhere, all unused game redemption codes must be used before May 15th, after which they will expire.
Immediately perform intensive downloads: Download all digital games and DLC content from your game library to the device’s storage or an additional microSD card. If storage space is insufficient, purchase a high-capacity storage card now.
Strictly protect local data: Never delete installed games, and be cautious when performing a “factory reset” on the device.
Fix hardware and accounts: Set up a “preferred console” in advance and bind your WeChat account. Do not easily delete associated accounts.
Physical data backup: Please back up important game screenshots, videos, and other materials to your computer as soon as possible to prevent data loss due to device failure and inability to repair.