Games Using Cloud Streaming Technology - FAQ
For questions about a specific game, please reach out to the respective publisher.
How is a Cloud Version of a game different from a downloadable game on Nintendo eShop?
A Cloud Version of a game uses streaming technology to play the game from a server. The Cloud Version requires stable connection to high-speed internet to play.
Because the game is streamed from a server, the full software is not downloaded to your Nintendo Switch console. A small download is required to launch the game.
You have the option to play a brief trial of the game before you choose to purchase full access. Depending on the game, this trial may be available as a separate download from Nintendo eShop or it may be included in the free download required to launch the game. When included in the free download, only the Nintendo Account that has purchased full access can play the full game. Please review the details of the game on the Nintendo website or on Nintendo eShop for more information on how to try it out and purchase full access.
Is a Nintendo Account required to play games using cloud streaming technology?
Yes, in order to purchase the Access Pass for a game using cloud streaming technology, a Nintendo Account is required.
Please note that, when included in the free download, only the Nintendo Account that has purchased full access can play the full game.
Do I need a Nintendo Switch Online membership to play games using cloud streaming technology?
A Nintendo Switch Online membership is not required to stream games. However, as with software available as packaged games or as digital downloads, a Nintendo Switch Online membership may be required to utilise a streamed game’s online features. Please check the details of the game on the Nintendo website or Nintendo eShop.
Do I need to be connected to the internet to play games using cloud streaming technology?
Yes, a stable and permanent internet connection is required. If your internet connection becomes unstable, the service will disconnect after a few minutes.
How do I know if my internet speed is sufficient to play games using cloud streaming technology?
Before you purchase full access, you will be able to briefly try the game at no charge to test your streaming connection. If your internet connection does not provide a quality experience for the game, you can choose not to purchase full access.
If you find the experience satisfactory, you can purchase full access from Nintendo eShop or via an option in the free download to continue playing, depending on the game. Please review the details of the game on the Nintendo website or on Nintendo eShop for more information on how to try it out and purchase full access.
Please note that a successful test does not guarantee a consistent stable connection in the future, as this depends on your internet service provider and your network environment when you play the game.
How can I improve my connection speed?
The following resources may help you with improving your connection speed:
- Network bandwidth troubleshooting
- Issues with latency while playing online
- How to connect to the internet using a wired connection
Do games using cloud streaming technology support the Nintendo Switch Online Save Data Cloud Backup?
Please check the details of the game on the Nintendo website or Nintendo eShop.
Can I restrict the start-up of this software using Nintendo Switch Parental Controls?
Yes. Nintendo Switch Parental Controls can be used to restrict access to any software on the Nintendo Switch console.