Nintendo bricks pirated Switch 2 consoles

Gamers are cautioning others about Nintendo's stringent new anti-piracy measures when purchasing pre-owned Switch 2 consoles – purchases that could result in owning a permanently offline system.

Recent reports indicate Nintendo has started permanently disabling online features on Switch 2 units that previously used the MIG Switch flash card – a device enabling pirated game play.

This irreversible restriction triggers error code 2124-4508 when attempting online access. Affected consoles lose all digital functionality: no game downloads, system updates, online multiplayer, GameChat communication, or Nintendo Switch Online services including classic game libraries.

The situation has already claimed its first consumer victim. Reddit user Bimmytung shared their experience purchasing a discounted "refurbished" Switch 2 from Walmart that appeared physically intact, only to discover the banned error upon setup.

"The Mario Kart redemption code was scratched off, which raised flags," Bimmytung recounted. "The $50 discount seemed worth the risk, but I immediately hit the error code upon booting. Walmart accepted the return, but the seller deserves every misfortune coming their way."

Found one. Didn't end well.
byu/Bimmytung inswitch2

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As Nintendo's ban wave continues, experts warn more bricked consoles will flood secondary markets. Gaming communities recommend thorough verification before purchase:

• Demand proof of current online functionality
• Request seller confirmation of no MIG Switch usage
• Test system connectivity before completing transaction

Nintendo updated its account terms in May, explicitly warning that unauthorized hardware/software modifications risk permanent account or device restrictions – foreshadowing these stringent enforcement measures.

Many gamers remain shocked by the immediacy and severity of the bans, with reports surfacing of consoles being blacklisted after single unauthorized cartridge insertions.

IGN has reached out to Nintendo for clarification on customer recourse regarding mistakenly purchased banned consoles, potential ban reversals, and whether retailers will receive guidance about identifying affected inventory.

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