Nintendo Ends Switch Vouchers Ahead of New Console Launch

Nintendo has announced it will phase out its Switch Game Vouchers program, currently offering Nintendo Switch Online members discounted access to Switch 1 titles.

In a detailed FAQ published today, Nintendo revealed the voucher system will be discontinued effective January 30, 2026—giving subscribers six months to make final purchases.

The company hasn't specified reasons for ending the program, though the decision comes after Nintendo excluded Switch 2 titles from voucher eligibility and introduced its first $80-priced game, Mario Kart World.

Launched in 2019, Switch Game Vouchers provide fixed-price access to two Switch titles purchased within a year. UK subscribers pay £84 for two vouchers, averaging £42 per game.

This represents approximately £8 savings per game compared to standard £50 Switch releases—with even greater discounts on premium titles like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and both Zelda Breath of the Wild installments, typically priced at £60.

While Switch 2 games aren't voucher-eligible, players discovered vouchers can still purchase original Switch versions of cross-generation titles like Zelda: Breath of the Wild—providing discounted access before paying upgrade fees.

Currently, buyers can use vouchers for cross-platform releases like Metroid Prime: Beyond or October's Pokémon Legends: Z-A. While the Switch 2 edition costs £60, purchasing the £50 Switch 1 version with vouchers (£42) then upgrading (£10) still saves £8.

Vouchers maintain their 12-month redemption period, though Nintendo confirms additional Switch titles will join the program through 2026.

President Shuntaro Furukawa recently indicated Nintendo is experimenting with shorter development cycles for select projects to control costs and maintain reasonable pricing.