To play NES games on a Nintendo Switch, use an account with an active Nintendo Switch Online membership to download Nintendo Entertainment System – Nintendo Switch Online from the eShop, then launch it from the HOME Menu. The standard membership includes the NES library; you do not need the Expansion Pack or a separate NES-style controller.
What you need before you start
- A Nintendo Account and a Nintendo Switch-family system with internet access. Nintendo’s service FAQ lists a Switch or Switch 2 with system menu version 6.0 or higher: Nintendo Switch Online Service FAQ.
- An active Nintendo Switch Online membership on the Nintendo Account you will select in eShop.
- The NES software downloaded from Nintendo eShop. It is a free software download for members, not a physical game cartridge.
- A controller compatible with your system. The separate NES-style controllers are optional.
Nintendo’s access instructions and NES software information are available from How to Access NES & Super NES – Nintendo Switch Online and the NES software product page.
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Download and open the NES app
- Open Nintendo eShop on the Switch.
- Select the user whose Nintendo Account has the active membership.
- In the eShop navigation, choose Nintendo Switch Online.
- Select Nintendo Entertainment System – Nintendo Switch Online.
- Choose Free Download, then choose Free Download again when prompted.
- When the software appears on the HOME Menu, open it and choose a game.
Nintendo may require an internet connection periodically to verify membership status. You do not have to remain online continuously, but the app may not validate membership if the system cannot connect when verification is needed.
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The standard Nintendo Switch Online membership includes access to the classic NES library. The Expansion Pack adds other classic-system libraries and selected benefits, but is not required just to play NES games. See Nintendo’s Nintendo Switch Online overview for current membership details.
#1 Best Overall
- The next evolution of Nintendo Switch
- One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
- Larger, vivid, 7.9” LCD touch screen with support for HDR and up to 120 fps
- Dock that supports 4K when connected to a compatible TV*
- GameChat** lets you voice chat, share your game screen, and connect via video chat as you play
| US annual plan | Accounts covered | Price stated by Nintendo |
|---|---|---|
| Individual | One Nintendo Account | $19.99 USD per year |
| Family | Up to eight Nintendo Accounts | $34.99 USD per year |
These are US annual prices listed by Nintendo’s service overview as accessed in 2026; they are not global prices. Membership price, term options, and availability vary by country. Check your local eShop or Nintendo’s membership purchase and extension instructions for the options available to your account.
Optional seven-day trial in the US
Nintendo’s US support instructions describe a seven-day trial for eligible Nintendo Accounts. It can be used once per account and is unavailable while an individual or family membership is active. A payment method is required for auto-renewal; turning off auto-renewal before the trial ends prevents a charge. Terms and trial availability may differ by territory. See Nintendo’s free-trial instructions before signing up.
Rank #2
- 6.2” LCD screen
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
- Nintendo Switch is the home of Mario & friends
If the NES software does not appear or download
- Check the eShop user. Close eShop and reopen it with the user tied to the active membership. Membership access is associated with the subscribing Nintendo Account.
- Check your account country and eShop region. The eShop available on the console depends on the Nintendo Account’s country setting. Nintendo also notes that membership services and features vary by country; consult its service and feature availability by country page.
- Check the connection. Connect the system to the internet, then try opening eShop and downloading the software again.
- Confirm membership status. If the account does not have an active membership, the NES app’s member library will not be available.
Do you need an NES controller?
No. You can use a controller compatible with your Switch. Nintendo’s NES controllers are an optional accessory associated with the NES software, useful if you prefer original-style controls. Consider them an ergonomic choice rather than a setup requirement, and check current compatibility and regional availability before buying.
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Best Value
- One player can use a Joy-Con in each hand
- Two players can each take one
- Multiple Joy-Con can be employed by numerous people for a variety of gameplay options (additional Joy-Con sold separately)
- Slip a set of Joy-Con into a Joy-Con grip accessory, mirroring a more traditional controller. Or, select an optional Nintendo Switch Pro Controller.
Rank #4
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers.
- 6.2” LCD screen.
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
Rank #3
- Play your way with the Nintendo Switch gaming system. Whether you’re at home or on the go, solo or with friends, the Nintendo Switch system is designed to fit your life. Dock your Nintendo Switch to enjoy HD gaming on your TV. Heading out? Just undock your console and keep playing in handheld mode
- This model includes battery life of approximately 4.5 - 9 hours.
- The battery life will depend on the games you play. For instance, the battery will last approximately 5.5 hours for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (games sold separately)
- Model number HAC 001( 01)
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
