Nintendo Restricts Foreign Payments on Japanese Switch eShop
Nintendo implements new payment policy for Japanese digital store, citing security concerns.
Nintendo has implemented significant restrictions on its Japanese Switch eShop, blocking payments from all foreign-issued credit cards and PayPal accounts. This change marks a substantial shift in the company’s digital distribution strategy for the Japanese market.
The new policy, as reported by IGN, specifically targets payments originating from outside Japan. Nintendo has attributed this decision to concerns over “fraudulent use” of the platform, suggesting a strategic move to enhance security measures in its digital marketplace.
While the restriction affects new purchases, Nintendo has confirmed that previously bought content remains accessible. Users who have already purchased games or downloadable content through the Japanese eShop can continue to access and play their existing library, regardless of their geographic location.
The impact of this change extends beyond casual users, affecting access to numerous Japan-exclusive titles. The Japanese eShop houses several unique offerings, including the remastered version of Yo-Kai Watch, Dragon Quest Heroes compilation, and exclusive Nintendo Switch Online content such as Mother 3 and classic Fire Emblem titles from the NES and SNES era.
This modification appears to be specific to the Japanese marketplace, as Nintendo has indicated that other regional versions of the Switch eShop will maintain their current payment systems. Users can still create Japanese Nintendo accounts, but the new payment restrictions significantly alter the process of acquiring Japan-exclusive digital content.