As an avid Nintendo Switch user myself, I know the thrill of receiving one of those iconic yellow eShop gift cards. Whether it‘s a birthday present or you scored a deal online, Nintendo eShop cards unlock access to the gigantic library of digital games on the Nintendo platform.
But if you‘ve never redeemed one before, the process can seem a bit mystifying. Not to worry – this comprehensive guide will walk you through redeeming Nintendo eShop cards seamlessly, both on your Switch and via Nintendo‘s website.
What Can You Buy with a Nintendo eShop Card?
Before diving into the how-to, let‘s briefly go over what you can actually purchase with eShop card funds. While you can‘t use the cards in brick-and-mortar stores, that still leaves plenty of options when shopping digitally in the Nintendo eShop:
- Brand new Nintendo Switch games – We‘re talking everything from the latest releases like Pokémon Scarlet/Violet to indie hits like Cult of the Lamb. Even preorders count!
- Previously purchased games – Grab classic Mario, Zelda and Metroid titles from the eShop at full price or when on sale.
- Downloadable Content (DLCs) – Expand your gameplay with DLC like new tracks for Mario Kart 8 or areas in Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
- Nintendo Switch Online subscription – Access online multiplayer, free classic NES/SNES games and more with a paid membership.
- In-game purchases – Funds can also be used for microtransactions to gain new items, skins, etc.
So in short, Nintendo eShop cards let you deeply explore Nintendo‘s digital catalog of games and content. Now let‘s get to redeeming!
How to Redeem a Nintendo eShop Card on the Nintendo Switch
Redeeming an eShop card directly on your Nintendo Switch is quick and convenient. Just follow these failsafe steps:
Step 1: Locate the Nintendo eShop
From your Switch‘s main menu, locate the bright red Nintendo eShop icon. It should be on the bottom row all the way to the right. Select the icon to launch the shop.
Step 2: Scroll to "Enter Code"
Once the eShop finishes loading, scroll down the left-side menu until you see the "Enter Code" option near the bottom. Highlight and select this to open the code redemption page.
Step 3: Carefully Type in Your Card‘s 16-Digit Code
On this page you‘ll be prompted to enter your 16-digit Nintendo eShop card code. Carefully type in the numbers found on the back of your card to avoid errors. Double check it matches perfectly.
Step 4: Confirm to Complete Redemption
Finally, confirm the code by selecting OK. If entered correctly, your Nintendo eShop balance will update instantly. You can now browse the eShop and purchase any games, DLCs etc that your heart desires!
How to Redeem a Nintendo eShop Card Online
Alternatively, you can add eShop funds by redeeming card codes directly on Nintendo‘s website. Here‘s how:
Step 1: Visit Nintendo‘s Redeem Page
Open any web browser and enter this URL: https://ec.nintendo.com/redeem
This will take you to Nintendo‘s dedicated shop card redemption portal.
Step 2: Sign in to Your Nintendo Account
Next you‘ll need to sign in with the Nintendo Account linked to your Switch profile and purchases. Click "Sign In" then enter your account‘s email and password.
Step 3: Carefully Type in Your Card‘s 16-Digit Code
Just like on the Switch itself, carefully type in the 16-digit code from your Nintendo eShop card on the Enter Code page. Slowly enter each number to avoid mistakes.
Step 4: Confirm to Complete Redemption
That‘s it! Double check the code matches then select Confirm to officially redeem it. The funds will instantly be added to your account‘s balance.
And there you have it – redeeming Nintendo eShop cards is quick and painless, both on your Switch and Nintendo‘s website. Now get shopping for some awesome new games!
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have some lingering questions about Nintendo eShop cards? Here are answers to some common queries:
What can I buy with my eShop card balance?
Your eShop card funds can buy any digital games, DLCs, subscriptions or in-game content available in the Nintendo eShop for the Switch. See the full details above!
What if I don‘t spend all my eShop balance at once?
Any remaining funds stay associated with your Nintendo Account, so you can spend it over multiple purchases rather than all at once. The balance doesn‘t expire.
What happens if I accidentally buy the wrong region‘s eShop card?
Unfortunately region-locked cards cannot be redeemed. So always carefully check Nintendo eShop cards are for your local region before purchasing.
Can I redeem eShop cards on a 3DS/Wii U?
As of late 2022, Nintendo has ended support for 3DS/Wii U eShop cards. The cards now only work for the Nintendo Switch.
And there you have an expert guide to seamlessly redeeming Nintendo eShop cards in just a few easy steps! Let me know if you have any other Switch-related questions. Happy gaming!
