Tech Desk 
May 11, 2025
An undated image. — Depositphotos
In a surprising turn of events, gaming titan Nintendo has warned users of grave consequences for engaging in piracy, emulation, and unauthorised console modifications.
Nintendo's warning against the misuse of its immensely popular consoles is believed to be the company's stringent stance ahead of the Switch 2 launch.
Slated to be launched on June 5, the latest Switch iteration is expected to support backwards compatibility through emulation, yet the company seems adamant about opposing the unofficial use of emulators.
The cautionary statement is being disseminated to users through emails, informing them of changes to Nintendo's User Account Agreement. Under the new agreement, players are required to accept the updated terms to continue accessing services such as the Nintendo eShop, Nintendo Switch Online, and digital games, Android Authority reported, citing sources.
The updated agreement also includes a newly expanded clause, which openly warns users that hacking, modifying consoles or games, using emulators, or pirating software may lead to their devices becoming fully or partially “unusable”.
Although the company didn’t clearly specify what “unusable” comprises, it likely refers to disabling certain device functions or restricting access to online features.
Contrary to the one rolled out in the US, the UK version of the agreement used slightly milder language, yet it outlined penalties for tinkering with Nintendo systems or software.
