What Is the Difference Between a Nintendo Network Account and a Local Account?
Wii U
A local user account is a profile on the Wii U that has not yet been connected to the Internet. Players with a local account can do the following:
- Create a Mii and local account nickname.
- Save game progress.
- Use any applications on the system that do not require Internet access.
When a local account is connected to the Internet for the first time, it becomes a Nintendo Network account. Players with a Nintendo Network account can also do the following:
- Create a Nintendo Network ID and password.
- Use any applications on the system that require Internet access (including Nintendo eShop and Video on Demand services).
- Access online game modes (examples include online multiplayer, voice chat, downloadable content, and global rankings).
- If a Nintendo Network ID is linked both to a Wii U and a Nintendo 3DS system, the Nintendo eShop balance of each will be consolidated and shared. Note, however, that as of March 27, 2023 it is no longer possible to make purchases in Nintendo eShop for the Wii U system and the Nintendo 3DS family of systems.
