Nintendo closes down popular sites for downloading Switch ROMs in latest effort to combat piracy
Finding Switch ROMs has become a bit less convenient for fans of emulation. Gamers recently discovered that both Nsw2u and Nswdl were offline. A domain seizure message from the Federal Bureau of Investigation now greets visitors on both sites. Supporters had previously been able to download Switch games playable on emulators and modded consoles.
The notice explains that the action was taken "in accordance with a seizure warrant issued pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 2323 issued by the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia as part of a law enforcement operation and action by the Federal Bureau of Investigation". Curiously, the Dutch-based Fiscal Information and Investigation Service (FIOD) was also involved. As Kotaku notes, Nsw2u was one of several sites added to an EU piracy watchlist in May 2025.
Like Nsw2u and Nswdl, most sites that link to Switch ROMs don't actually host the files. Still, Nintendo has pursued anyone who facilitates copyright infringement or piracy. However, since the ROMs are available on various file-sharing sites, many alternatives exist.
Perhaps a more effective strategy has been to target the developers of Switch emulators and mods. Yuzu ceased operations in March 2024 as part of a settlement following a Nintendo lawsuit. Even so, the open-source program remains a popular option for gamers.
Nintendo also reportedly sued a retailer distributing the MIG Switch. The cartridge targets legal backups, but also works with some Switch ROMs. Since the Switch 2 is backward compatible, the gaming giant has been banning consoles using the MIG Switch from online services. That has caused concerns for a Brazilian consumer protection agency. The organization fears that other gamers will face unwarranted restrictions.
