Nintendo’s latest anti-piracy efforts are raising concerns among fans, especially those considering a secondhand Switch 2. Gamers are warning others to be cautious, as buying a used console could mean ending up with a device permanently locked out of online features.
Earlier this month, Nintendo began banning any Switch 2 systems that had been used with the MIG Switch flash card, a device that allows users to run unofficial or pirated games. Consoles identified as having used the card are being permanently blocked from accessing online services, displaying error code 2124-4508 whenever a connection is attempted.
The ban has serious consequences. Affected consoles can no longer download or play digital games, install system or game updates, access online multiplayer or GameChat, or use any Nintendo Switch Online features, including cloud saves and the retro game libraries. Even physical titles that require Game-Key verification won’t work properly.
This has made the secondhand market for the Switch 2 increasingly risky. Several users have reported buying discounted consoles, only to discover they were effectively blocked by Nintendo’s policy.
One person shared their experience on Reddit after picking up a used Switch 2 from Walmart:
“Physically it’s fine, everything seems there,” he wrote. “Notice that the Mario Kart code is scratched off. Hmm. Naturally wonder if the original buyer redeemed the code and returned the system. They knocked $50 off the price so I figured I’d roll the dice and at least have the hardware(…). Get home and go to finish the setup – quickly get error code 2124-4508. A quick Google search shows me I’m screwed.”
Fortunately, he was able to return the console. But his post served as a warning for others, sparking concerns across the community.
“The secondhand market for this console is going to be a complete nightmare,” wrote one Reddit user.
“I would honestly advise anyone to just avoid open box or used consoles and accessories at this point, as tempting as it may be,” replied another.
As more bans are handed out and those consoles inevitably end up on resale sites or in retail return bins, the chances of getting stuck with a compromised device continue to rise. Until there’s a reliable way to verify a console’s online status before buying, secondhand Switch 2 deals may come with more risk than reward.