Nintendo

What is Nintendo?

Nintendo Switch is a gaming console that works both as a home console connected to a TV and as a portable handheld device. It features beloved game franchises like Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, Splatoon and Animal Crossing. With Nintendo Switch Online, children can play multiplayer games online, use voice chat through a separate phone app, and purchase games digitally via the eShop. Parental controls are managed through a separate free app.

Age rating: Varies by game (PEGI 3–18 / ESRB E–M). The console itself has no inherent age limit, but online features require a Nintendo Account.

Why do kids like it?

• Beloved game franchises. Mario, Zelda, Pokémon and Animal Crossing are among the world’s most recognised game brands. Kids know the characters and worlds intimately.
• Playing together on the couch. Nintendo Switch supports local multiplayer — multiple players can share the console with split Joy-Cons. It’s social and inclusive.
• Take it anywhere. The console works as a handheld, making it perfect for travel, car rides and visiting friends.
• Generally family-friendly reputation. Nintendo is known for creating safe, creative games. Many parents choose the Switch specifically for this reason.
• Creativity and collecting. Games like Animal Crossing and Super Mario Maker let kids build, design and express themselves. Pokémon is all about collecting and trading.

What are the real risks?

• Online play with strangers. In games like Splatoon, Mario Kart and Super Smash Bros., children are matched with unknown players. There is no thorough verification of who they are playing against.
• Voice chat through a phone app. The Nintendo Switch Online app on a phone enables voice chat. Because it runs on the child’s phone, it is harder for parents to monitor.
• eShop spending. Children can purchase games, DLC and microtransactions digitally. Without PIN protection, this can lead to unexpected charges.
• Friend code sharing. Nintendo’s friend code system is used to add friends. Children may share codes in chats, on social media or in gaming forums — connecting with strangers.
• Third-party games with mature content. While Nintendo’s own titles are family-friendly, the eShop contains games from other developers with violent or mature content.
• Text chat in certain games. Some games allow text-based communication with other players, which can open the door to inappropriate contact.
• Subscription auto-renewal. Nintendo Switch Online renews automatically unless manually cancelled, which can result in unexpected costs.

Settings to check

1. Download the Parental Controls app: Install “Nintendo Switch Parental Controls” (free) on your phone. It connects to your child’s Switch and provides full control.
2. Set play-time limits: In the app, you can set daily time limits and choose whether the console gives a reminder or automatically enters sleep mode.
3. Restrict games by age rating: Select an age level in the app. Games rated above this level will be automatically blocked.
4. Restrict online communication: In the app, you can disable the ability to freely communicate with other players online.
5. Disable eShop purchases: Set a PIN that is required for all eShop purchases, or block access to the eShop entirely through the app.
6. Restrict sharing of screenshots and videos: In the app, you can prevent your child from posting gameplay screenshots and videos to social media.
7. Check activity reports: The app shows which games your child has played and for how long. Use this as a starting point for conversations.

How to talk about it

“Who do you usually play against when you’re online? Is it people you know, or random players?”

“Have you ever shared your friend code with someone you don’t know in person? Let’s talk about why it might be a good idea to keep it private.”

“Do you use the voice chat app when you play? What kind of things do people talk about?”

“Are there any games in the eShop you’d like? Let’s look at them together and figure out what’s a good fit.”

Last reviewed: March 2026