GameShare Overview and FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

How does GameShare work?

By using streaming technology, it’s possible to share the gameplay instantly without having to take time to transfer the software.

Does GameShare work not only on local connectivity play but also on GameChat?

Yes, you can share compatible games and play together online via GameChat for Nintendo Switch 2 systems. GameChat and online game sharing is only available on Nintendo Switch 2.

Some games may specifically support one connection method rather than both.

Does GameShare work on Nintendo Switch?

Only Nintendo Switch 2 can share compatible games, and can share them online to Nintendo Switch 2 systems, or via local wireless communication to both Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch systems.

How many players can join GameShare?

Up to four Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch systems can participate in a GameShare session. A Nintendo Switch 2 system is required to host a GameShare session.

How do I host or join a GameShare session with other players?

For general information, including how to join a session as a guest, please read our guidance on how to play together via GameShare.

The steps to start a GameShare session vary depending on the game. Please search our support site for "How to Start a Multiplayer Game" with the title of the game you're trying to play for detailed steps.

Will the Restricted Software parental control be applied to a game received via GameShare?

Yes, the receiving user’s Restricted Software (age rating) setting will be honored for any games played on the system.

Is there any software that does not support GameChat or GameShare? If so, what kind of software is applicable?

Not all software is compatible with GameShare, so please check the software information on the Nintendo website. GameChat is available on Nintendo Switch 2 regardless of which game is being played.

Can you share Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive software through GameShare with players who own a Nintendo Switch?

Yes, Nintendo Switch systems can receive Nintendo Switch 2 games compatible with GameShare via local wireless connection if the software supports it. Some software may not be suited for GameShare with a Nintendo Switch system due to required accessories or control schemes.

Is the play experience exactly the same when playing via GameShare compared to regular online or local multiplayer?

It’s up to each developer if they choose to implement GameShare, and in what way.

There are games where it’s better if players aren’t shown the same screen, so GameShare includes features that enable each person to see a different screen even if they are playing the same game with one piece of software.

For example, when playing card games and mahjong in Clubhouse Games - 51 Worldwide Classics, each player is shown a different screen, making it possible to play cards with others without seeing what each other has, for instance.

Will games look the same on all consoles when playing via GameShare?

The quality of the game image is reduced when it's transferred using streaming technology, but the feature is developed to maintain a high-quality image as much as possible.

Can the host or guest users take screenshots and capture video during GameShare?

The ability to capture screenshots or videos while using GameShare depends on the software specifications. Some games may allow it while others may not.

However, regardless of which game is being played, it's not possible to capture videos on a Nintendo Switch console while using GameShare.

Will there be any delay while using GameShare over the internet with GameChat?

Delay may happen depending on the network environment and physical distance.

Is it possible to purchase a game that players have learned about through GameShare on Nintendo eShop right away?

Yes. After playing a game via GameShare, the software icon will remain on the HOME Menu, making it easy to jump to the software information page in Nintendo eShop to find out more information or purchase the full game.

On Nintendo Switch, it will not be possible to purchase software that is exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2.

Will save data for the game being shared be created on the guest systems?

No. Only the host's save data will be updated when using GameShare.