Tips for finding the best deals on Nintendo Switch digital games?

Searching for the perfect Nintendo Switch digital game at a bargain price can feel like a quest, but with the right strategies, you can consistently snag fantastic deals. Digital downloads offer convenience, but their prices don’t always fluctuate as much as physical cartridges. However, savvy shoppers know where to look and how to wait for those sweet discounts. This guide will equip you with the essential tips to ensure you never pay full price for your next Switch eShop gem.

Mastering the Nintendo eShop Itself

The first and most obvious place to hunt for digital game deals is directly on the Nintendo eShop. Nintendo regularly hosts sales events, often tied to seasons, holidays, or specific publishers. Keep a close eye on the “Great Deals” section, which is updated frequently with new discounts. Publishers also run their own sales, so if you’re eyeing a game from a particular developer, check their offerings periodically.

Don’t forget the power of My Nintendo Gold Points! Every digital purchase earns you Gold Points, which can then be redeemed for discounts on future eShop purchases. It’s a built-in loyalty program that effectively shaves a few dollars off your next game.

Leveraging Third-Party Price Tracking Websites

To truly stay on top of price drops, dedicated third-party websites are your best friends. Sites like DekuDeals.com and eShop-Prices.com specialize in tracking Nintendo Switch game prices across various eShop regions. They allow you to:

• View historical price data to see how often a game goes on sale and its typical discount.
• Set up email alerts for specific games on your wishlist. You’ll get notified the moment a price drops.
• Compare prices across different regional eShops (though remember currency conversion and potential region lock issues if not managed carefully).

These platforms offer an invaluable overview that the eShop alone cannot provide, helping you make informed purchasing decisions.

Hunting for Digital Codes at Retailers

While you’re buying a digital game, it doesn’t always have to come directly from the eShop. Major online retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, GameStop, and others often sell digital download codes for Nintendo Switch games. During big sales events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or seasonal promotions, these retailers can offer steeper discounts on digital codes than Nintendo’s own eShop. Always cross-reference prices between the eShop and these retailers before making a purchase.

Utilizing Nintendo Switch Online Benefits and Vouchers

If you’re a Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) subscriber, keep an eye out for exclusive member discounts. Nintendo occasionally offers special deals only accessible to NSO members. Additionally, Nintendo sometimes offers “Game Vouchers” to NSO subscribers. These allow you to purchase a pair of vouchers for a fixed price, which can then be redeemed for two eligible full-priced digital games, often saving you a significant amount if you plan to buy two new, expensive first-party titles.

The Power of the Wishlist and Patience

One of the simplest yet most effective strategies is to use the eShop’s wishlist feature. Add every game you’re interested in, regardless of its current price. Nintendo often sends notifications when a game on your wishlist goes on sale. More importantly, cultivate patience. Very few games never go on sale. If a game isn’t discounted now, it likely will be in the future. By waiting, you not only save money but also avoid impulse purchases you might regret.

By combining these strategies—actively monitoring the eShop, using third-party trackers, checking retailer sales for codes, leveraging NSO perks, and patiently waiting—you’ll significantly increase your chances of finding the best deals on Nintendo Switch digital games. Happy hunting!