Digital eShop content for Nintendo Switch

Get even more out of the games you already own

Many of the great Nintendo Switch titles don't end when you see the credits. Expansion passes and downloadable content extend the life of games you already know with new stories, characters, tracks or modes. It's a way to return to a favourite game without starting from scratch.

In this section we've gathered digital content specific to the original Nintendo Switch. You buy the code, redeem it on the console, and the content is linked to your Nintendo Account.

What kind of content you'll find

Expansion passes

These bundle all the planned extra content for a game into a single purchase. This is the format used by the passes for The Legend of Zelda, Splatoon 3, Pokémon, Hyrule Warriors or Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Happy Home Paradise, among others. They're usually cheaper than buying each piece of content separately.

DLC and content packs

Specific extra content: playable characters, track packs like the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Booster Course Pass, bonus chapters or multi-game packs. Perfect if you only want a specific part of what a game offers.

Nintendo Switch Online subscriptions

The subscription that enables online multiplayer, cloud save data and access to a catalogue of classic NES, Super Nintendo and Game Boy games. Available as an individual or family plan, and with an expansion pack that adds N64, GameCube, Mega Drive and Game Boy Advance.

How buying digital content works

1. You choose the content and complete the purchase.
2. You receive a redemption code.
3. You go into the Nintendo eShop from your console, select Redeem Code and enter the characters.
4. The content downloads and gets linked to your Nintendo Account.

Looking for content for the new generation? Visit the digital content for Nintendo Switch 2 section. And if you prefer the physical format, check out Nintendo Switch games on cartridge.

Frequently asked questions about Switch digital content

Do I need the base game to use an expansion pass?

Yes. Expansion passes and DLC require the base game to be installed on the console. Without it, the extra content can't be used.

Does Switch digital content work on the Switch 2?

Generally yes, thanks to the Nintendo Switch 2's backward compatibility with the original console's digital catalogue. The content is tied to your Nintendo Account, not the hardware.

What does the Nintendo Switch Online subscription include?

It includes online multiplayer, cloud save data, a mobile voice chat app, and access to a library of classic NES, Super Nintendo and Game Boy games. The expansion pack adds N64, GameCube, Mega Drive and Game Boy Advance titles, plus extra content for some games.

What's the difference between the individual and family subscription?

The individual plan covers a single Nintendo Account. The family plan gives access to several accounts within one household, which is usually better value if more than one person plays at home.

Do the codes expire?

Redemption codes usually have an activation deadline set by Nintendo. Once redeemed, the content stays permanently linked to your account.