Caution when buying a used Nintendo Switch 2: Error code makes consoles almost unusable

Prior to the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo published its new terms of service and warned owners that their consoles can be made unusable if they were modified or hacked. As we previously reported, Nintendo has already made use of this clause and permanently blocked all online features if it detected that a MiG Switch was inserted. A MiG Switch is a game cartridge with a microSD slot that allows playing games from ROM files on the console.

This online ban severely limits the console's functionality. Nintendo blocks online multiplayer but also the Nintendo eShop, access to game updates and DLC content, the use of game key cards, and all features of the Nintendo Switch online subscription. As users on Reddit report, this block affects both players who have used a MiG Switch but also customers who buy a used Nintendo Switch 2. This includes purchases from private sellers on platforms like eBay, as well as refurbished consoles from established retailers.

One user, for example, reportedly purchased a used Mario Kart World bundle from US retail giant Walmart. In this case, the download code for the game had already been used. Furthermore, the error code 2124-4508 was displayed after setup, indicating the console is blocked from going online. Even Nintendo's support is currently unable to lift this ban, meaning affected consoles remain unusable for the time being. Therefore, anyone buying a used Nintendo Switch 2 should definitely check out the console before purchasing it, and also try to access Nintendo’s online services.