Nintendo Switch 2 Won’t Work Without Internet Update, Early Users Warn

Some gamers who received the Nintendo Switch 2 ahead of its June 5 launch have issued a major warning: the console doesn’t work yet.

Over the past 24 hours, several reports have surfaced online showing early footage and photos of the new device. Although some questioned whether these leaks were real, copyright takedowns by Nintendo strongly suggest the content was genuine.

But early access came with a surprise. According to those who tested the system, the Switch 2 won’t function at all unless it connects to the internet and installs a mandatory day-one update. That update is not available yet, meaning these early consoles are unusable for now.

Gamers can power on the device, but they can’t go any further. Without the patch, the console is locked down—essentially acting as a very expensive paperweight.

Nintendo likely did this to prevent leaks and piracy, especially since details about the Switch 2 have been leaking since last year. Still, the move raises concerns. Some worry this could lead to problems in the future when support ends. If these consoles always require an online check or update to function, they may become permanently unusable years from now.

The news also highlights recent updates to Nintendo’s user agreements, which allow the company to remotely disable systems found running pirated software.

For now, fans will have to wait for the official release to get their systems fully working.