: A Complete Guide

Nintendo gift cards have become an essential part of the gaming ecosystem, offering flexibility for purchases across the Nintendo eShop. Whether you’re buying games, in-game content, or even Nintendo Switch Online subscriptions, gift cards provide a convenient way to manage your gaming budget. Redeem codes associated with Nintendo gift cards allow users to easily add funds to their Nintendo accounts without the need for a credit card.

In this comprehensive article, we will explore everything you need to know about Nintendo gift card redeem codes. From how to redeem them, the types of content you can purchase, where to buy gift cards, common issues users face during redemption, and tips to get the best value—this guide covers all the essential information.

What Are Nintendo Gift Cards?

A Nintendo gift card is a prepaid card that adds a specific monetary value to your Nintendo account, which can be used in the Nintendo eShop. These cards are available in various denominations, ranging from $10 to $100, and allow you to purchase digital content directly on your Nintendo device, such as:

Full games
Downloadable content (DLC)
In-game items
Apps and utilities
Nintendo Switch Online memberships

Nintendo gift cards are a perfect solution for people who either don’t want to use a credit card online or are looking to gift gaming experiences to friends or family members.

What Is a Nintendo Redeem Code?

Every Nintendo gift card comes with a redeem code, which is a unique 16-character alphanumeric string. This code is what you enter into your Nintendo account to add the value of the gift card. Once redeemed, the amount on the card is added to your account balance, and you can use it for purchases in the eShop.

Types of Nintendo Gift Cards

Nintendo gift cards come in two main forms:

1. Physical Nintendo Gift Cards

Physical gift cards are the traditional type you purchase at retail stores. They are available in most gaming and electronic outlets like Walmart, Best Buy, and GameStop. The redeem code is typically located on the back of the card and covered by a scratch-off surface for security.

2. Digital Nintendo Gift Cards

Digital gift cards are sold online and sent to your email. These are more convenient, as they can be purchased and redeemed almost instantly. You can buy them from official stores like the Nintendo eShop or trusted third-party sites like Amazon, Best Buy, and GameStop. The redeem code is provided via email, allowing you to enter it directly into your Nintendo account.

How to Redeem a Nintendo Gift Card Code

Redeeming a Nintendo gift card is a straightforward process that can be done on any Nintendo device or through the web. Below, we’ll outline the steps for redeeming your code across different platforms.

1. Redeeming on the Nintendo Switch Console

The Nintendo Switch console offers the easiest way to redeem a gift card code. Here’s how to do it:

Open the Nintendo eShop: On your Switch home screen, locate and select the Nintendo eShop icon.
Select Your Profile: Choose the user profile that you want to apply the gift card funds to.
Scroll to ‘Enter Code’: Once inside the eShop, scroll down to find the “Enter Code” option on the left-hand menu.
Enter Your Code: Type in the 16-character redeem code exactly as it appears on the card or in your email. Be sure to double-check the code for any typos.
Click ‘Confirm’: After entering the code, click “Confirm” to redeem it.
Funds Added: The balance from the gift card will be added to your account, and you can now use it to make purchases in the eShop.

2. Redeeming on the Web

You can also redeem your gift card directly through the Nintendo website. This is particularly useful if you’re away from your Switch but still want to add funds to your account.

Go to the Nintendo Account Website: Visit accounts.nintendo.com and sign in with your Nintendo account.
Navigate to the Redeem Section: Once logged in, click on the “Shop Menu” and select “Redeem a Nintendo eShop Card.”
Enter the Code: Type the 16-character redeem code into the provided box and click “Submit.”
Confirm and Redeem: After submitting, the funds will be added to your Nintendo account balance and will be available for future purchases on your Switch.

3. Redeeming on the Nintendo 3DS or Wii U

Even though the Nintendo Switch is the focus of most new game releases, you can still redeem gift card codes on older consoles like the 3DS or Wii U.

Open the eShop: On your 3DS or Wii U, navigate to the Nintendo eShop from the home screen.
Find the ‘Enter Code’ Option: Scroll through the eShop menu to find the option to redeem a code.
Enter the Redeem Code: Type in the 16-character code and hit “Confirm.”
Funds Added: Your account balance will be updated with the gift card value, and you can use it on any compatible purchases.

What Can You Buy with Nintendo Gift Card Redeem Codes?

Nintendo gift cards provide access to a wide variety of digital content on the Nintendo eShop. Here’s a breakdown of what you can purchase using these gift cards.

1. Full Games

One of the primary uses of Nintendo gift cards is buying full games. From top-tier franchises like Super Mario, The Legend of Zelda, and Pokémon to indie titles like Hollow Knight and Stardew Valley, the eShop offers a vast library of games for all types of players. Gift card funds allow you to buy these games without needing a credit card or other payment methods.

2. Downloadable Content (DLC)

Many games on the Nintendo eShop offer downloadable content that enhances your gaming experience. This could include additional levels, characters, missions, or other in-game items. Popular titles like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild offer expansive DLC packs, which can be purchased with the funds from your gift card.

3. In-Game Purchases

Some games on the eShop are free-to-play but offer in-game purchases for currency, skins, and other add-ons. Fortnite, Apex Legends, and Rocket League are some of the most popular games where in-game purchases can be made with gift card funds. These microtransactions help enhance gameplay without having to spend real money directly.

4. Nintendo Switch Online Subscription

With a Nintendo gift card, you can also pay for a Nintendo Switch Online membership. This subscription service allows you to play multiplayer games online, back up your game saves to the cloud, and access a library of classic NES and SNES games. Nintendo Switch Online also offers special promotions and discounts exclusively for subscribers.

There are two main subscription options:

Nintendo Switch Online: Standard membership, available for individuals or families.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Includes access to N64 and Sega Genesis games, along with other bonuses.

5. Apps and Utilities

In addition to games, the eShop offers a variety of apps and utilities that you can purchase with your Nintendo gift card. Apps like YouTube and Hulu are available, as well as several creative tools and productivity apps that can enhance your experience with the Nintendo Switch.

Where to Buy Nintendo Gift Cards

Nintendo gift cards are widely available in both physical and digital formats. Below are the best places to purchase them.

1. Retail Stores

You can buy physical Nintendo gift cards from various retail stores, including:

Walmart
Target
Best Buy
GameStop
Costco

Most of these stores carry cards in denominations such as $10, $20, $35, $50, and $100, making it easy to choose a card that fits your budget.

2. Online Retailers

For a faster, more convenient option, digital Nintendo gift cards are available through online retailers like:

Amazon
Best Buy (digital code option)
GameStop (digital delivery)
Newegg
Walmart (digital gift card)

These digital cards are typically delivered via email within minutes, and you can redeem the code immediately in the Nintendo eShop.

3. Nintendo eShop

You can also purchase Nintendo gift cards directly from the Nintendo eShop. If you’re buying for someone else, you can send them a digital code as a gift. This method ensures you’re purchasing from a trusted source and avoids any issues with counterfeit cards or scams.

Common Issues When Redeeming Nintendo Gift Card Codes

While redeeming Nintendo gift card codes is generally a smooth process, some users may encounter issues. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them.

1. Invalid Code

One of the most frequent issues is entering an invalid code. Double-check that the code has been entered correctly, paying close attention to any similar-looking characters (like 0 and O or 1 and I).

If the code still doesn’t work, it’s possible that it was already redeemed or expired. Contact the retailer or Nintendo Support for assistance in such cases.

2. Region Restrictions

Nintendo gift cards are often region-locked, meaning a card purchased in one country may not be redeemable in another. Always make sure you’re buying a gift card for the correct region of your Nintendo account.

If you accidentally buy a card for the wrong region, you can try contacting the retailer for a refund or exchange.