Buying someone a video game used to be simple.
You walked into a store, picked up a physical copy, wrapped it and handed it over.
But as gaming has become increasingly digital, giving someone a game hasn’t always been that straightforward.
Nintendo is finally making that easier.
The company has announced a new feature allowing Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 users to purchase eligible digital games as gifts for members of their Nintendo Account family group.
The feature is scheduled to arrive on November 16, following a system update released on November 9.
And the process sounds pretty simple.
Players will be able to open the Nintendo eShop, select an eligible game, choose the gifting option and pick a recipient from their family group.
After completing the purchase, the game will be delivered directly to the recipient’s console.
It’s not limited to full games, either. Eligible downloadable content and upgrade packs can also be gifted.
However, there are restrictions.
Nintendo Account family groups can include up to eight members, meaning users won’t be able to send digital gifts to absolutely anyone on their friends list.
Supervised accounts won’t be allowed to send gifts, and Nintendo will limit the number of purchases within certain periods.
Still, the announcement comes at a pretty convenient time.
With the holiday season approaching, digital gifting could make things easier for families and friends who regularly exchange games.
It’s also a reminder of how much gaming habits have changed.
Physical game collections used to take up entire shelves. Now, more players keep their libraries directly on their consoles.
And Nintendo is finally making it easier to share that experience.
So, who’s adding a new game to their birthday wishlist?
