Nintendo Switch supports remote game downloads

The Nintendo Switch will automatically start downloading games purchased from Nintendo's website on-the-go or at home.

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Nintendo has confirmed its new Switch handheld-console hybrid will support remote game downloads at home or on-the-go, similar to the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U.

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Let's say you're away from home and you buy a Switch game on Nintendo's website. Even while you're gone, the Switch console will start automatically downloading the game similar to the PS4's remote download feature. The added bonus is that the Switch can auto-download purchased games while on-the-go as long as the system is connected to Wi-Fi. Before you can do any of this, though, you'll have to download a day-one update to access the eShop.

"After visiting Nintendo eShop on Nintendo Switch for the first time, gamers can also purchase Nintendo Switch digital games on Nintendo.com. Users can purchase the games on Nintendo's website and have them download automatically to their Nintendo Switch system at home or on the go, wherever there is a Wi-Fi connection," Nintendo announced in a recent press release.

So let's say you have your Switch on you but there's no internet nearby. You buy a Switch game on the Nintendo website from your phone, and then walk into Starbucks to piggyback off of their Wi-Fi. When the Switch is connected to the internet it'll automatically start downloading the game while on-the-go just like a 3DS handheld.

Nintendo hasn't yet confirmed if the Switch can download games in Sleep Mode, but I wouldn't be surprised if this was available.

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Furthermore, Nintendo has confirmed that all existing account cash in a Nintendo Account can be used to buy Switch games. Users have to link their Nintendo Accounts to the Switch first, but after that they can use the same pool of wallet cash across all linked devices, including Wii U, 3DS and Switch.

Last but not least Nintendo has sadly announced that the Switch won't have Virtual Console games when it launches on March 3. These games are undoubtedly coming, but they won't be available upon release. Instead we'll get access to a lackluster trio of Nindie eShop games--two of which are for the same game.

The Nintendo Switch launches on March 3, 2017 for $299. Check below for a massive catalog of info.

Everything we know about the Nintendo Switch:

Derek joined the TweakTown team in 2015 and has since reviewed and played 1000s of hours of new games. Derek is absorbed with the intersection of technology and gaming, and is always looking forward to new advancements. With over six years in games journalism under his belt, Derek aims to further engage the gaming sector while taking a peek under the tech that powers it. He hopes to one day explore the stars in No Man's Sky with the magic of VR.

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