Nintendo eShop Pre-Order and Pre-Load FAQ (Nintendo Switch)
Select games and DLC are available for pre-order on Nintendo eShop prior to their release date. When you pre-order content on Nintendo eShop, payment will not be processed until, at the earliest, seven days before the software is released. When payment is processed, a non-playable version of the software will be downloaded to your console. You’ll be able to start using the software after downloading a small update that becomes available when the software is released.
Frequently asked questions
How do I pre-order a game or DLC?
To pre-order applicable software, locate the software on Nintendo eShop on your Nintendo Switch console or on the official Nintendo website. Select Proceed to Pre-Order on your console or Pre-Order Now on the website and follow the on-screen steps to finish your pre-order.
Starting from seven days before the software’s release date, your selected payment method will be processed and the software will be downloaded to your console. You’ll be able to start using the software after downloading a small update that becomes available when the software is released. If the payment is not processed successfully, your pre-order will be cancelled.
When will I be charged?
You will be charged for the full amount of the purchase starting from seven days before the software’s release date. You can select or change your preferred payment method to use for pre-orders and automatic renewal through your Account Information in Nintendo eShop or via Shop Menu on https://accounts.nintendo.com/portal. If you have not set a payment method yet, you will be prompted to select your preferred payment method (credit card, PayPal or available Nintendo eShop funds) when you place the pre-order
When will I be charged?
You will be charged for the full amount of the purchase no sooner than 7 days prior to the game’s release date. When setting up your pre-order, you can select the payment method you wish to use (credit card, PayPal, Game Voucher or available Nintendo eShop funds).
Can I cancel a pre-order?
Yes, you can change your mind any time before the payment is processed and the game is pre-loaded on your system (up to 7 days before the game’s release date). For steps to cancel your pre-order, see How to Cancel a Pre-Order for a Game on Nintendo eShop.
Can I use My Nintendo Gold Points for my pre-order?
Yes. When you pre-order software, you will have the option to use points for a discount. If you choose to do so, all available Gold Points you have at the time payment is processed can be used towards the purchase, up to the full purchase price.
Can I use a Nintendo Switch Game Voucher to pre-order software?
Eligible upcoming titles can be pre-ordered using a voucher. You can view the current list of eligible titles on Nintendo eShop.
Note: A voucher cannot be used for a pre-order if it expires before the release date for the product.
Please note that Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers cannot be redeemed for Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive games.
What happens when a game or DLC is pre-loaded?
When a game or DLC is pre-loaded, the full content is downloaded to your system. This means you will not need to wait for the content to download at the time it is released. You’ll see an icon for the game on your HOME menu, but you will not be able to launch the game until it is officially released, and a small update is downloaded.
How do I get the software update that unlocks the content on the release date?
If an update is needed and your Nintendo Switch console is connected to the internet, you will be prompted to download the update data once you launch the software. Additionally, if your console is in sleep mode and connected to the internet, the update data will download and install automatically.
Most software titles are released at 00:00 on their release date. However, some may become available later during the day.
Where is my pre-order bonus download code?
Occasionally, software may offer bonus content for those who purchase it before release. Any bonus download codes will not be available until payment is processed and the software is downloaded to your console, starting from seven days before the software's release. After payment is processed, your bonus download code(s) will be listed on the receipt that is emailed to you and in your purchase history viewable on the Nintendo Account website.
Why was my pre-order cancelled?
A pre-order can be cancelled for a number of reasons, including if payment could not be processed due to insufficient funds or an expired credit card, etc. If your pre-order was cancelled, you can still place a new pre-order or purchase the software when it is released. For more information on the reason your pre-order was cancelled, see Nintendo eShop Pre-Order was Cancelled.