Nintendo Warns Gamers: Modding or Using Emulators Could Permanently Brick Your Console

Nintendo is tightening its grip on modified consoles and emulators with a major update to its End User License Agreement (EULA). The company now explicitly states it has the right to render user devices completely or partially inoperable if they violate the terms—particularly through hardware modifications or unauthorized software use. This marks one of Nintendo’s clearest and most aggressive stances yet against console modding.

Gamers who own modified Nintendo Switch systems—or other Nintendo hardware—should be cautious, as they now risk losing access to both their consoles and Nintendo accounts permanently.

A History of Legal Action Against Modding and Emulators

Nintendo has long opposed emulation and software modification. Just last year, the company filed a lawsuit against a Switch modding business, citing piracy concerns. With the rumored release of the Nintendo Switch 2 on the horizon, Nintendo seems more determined than ever to protect its intellectual property—both on the software and hardware fronts.

In the updated EULA, first reported by Game File, Nintendo warns users that any attempts to modify its systems or reverse engineer its software could result in severe consequences. This includes actions like extracting ROMs or altering hardware in any way not explicitly approved by Nintendo.

Bricking Devices: A Bold New Enforcement Strategy

Historically, Nintendo has targeted modders through lawsuits and DMCA takedowns, often aimed at websites or businesses. But this new policy allows the company to directly penalize individual users, a significant escalation in its enforcement approach.

Given that the upcoming Switch 2 is rumored to cost upwards of $450 or more, a permanently disabled account or console could be a costly mistake for unsuspecting gamers. While modding may seem harmless to some, it could now carry serious financial risks.

Nintendo’s Track Record Suggests Serious Enforcement

It remains to be seen how aggressively Nintendo will enforce these new terms. However, the company is known for its zero-tolerance policy toward anything it perceives as piracy. In December 2024, for instance, a person in Japan was arrested for selling hacked Pokémon Sun save data—an extreme example, but one that shows Nintendo’s commitment to its anti-piracy stance.

Ultimately, while modding consoles or using emulators might seem tempting, doing so under Nintendo’s current policy could cost users access to their games, hardware, and online services—permanently.