The Nintendo eShop in some regions now filters out shovelware from other Switch and Switch 2 games

Before the Switch 2 release date, Nintendo optimized its eShop for more efficient browsing. In some regions, the company also took measures to reduce the amount of visible shovelware. IGN is reporting that Nintendo implemented new publishing guidelines in Japan and other Asian markets. The goal is to curtail low-quality or offensive Switch and Switch 2 games that top search results.

The multi-faceted approach to cleaning up the Nintendo eShop includes limits on game bundles. Publishers of hastily made software often package multiple titles together to rank higher. Now, these companies can only list five bundles for the first year after launching a game.

Other publishers find it profitable to imitate popular games with similar titles or descriptions. Shovelware sometimes relies on generative AI to create eye-catching artwork. Nintendo attempted to halt this activity by prohibiting some post-release edits.

The problem of spam and inappropriate listings also plagues other marketplaces, like the PlayStation Store. Still, some buyers consider Nintendo more family-friendly, which raises expectations for safeguarding the eShop. To protect younger gamers, Nintendo has warned companies about overly sexual or political content. Also, if a game encourages criminal activity or promotes discrimination, it may be blocked.

IGN also spoke with developers who have concerns about the changes to the Nintendo eShop. Despite good intentions, it could prevent gamers from discovering lesser-known Switch games.

Some publishers shared this sentiment when Nintendo made other updates to the marketplace. Instead of ranking titles with the most downloads over the past two weeks higher, it began prioritizing sales within the prior three days. Consequently, buyers tend to see popular first-party games first in the results. Meanwhile, lower-priced indie titles could become buried in the expanding Nintendo eShop.