Nintendo Doesn’t Differentiate: Playing Pirated or Backed-Up Games Both Count as Violations
Nintendo Switch 2 users are facing permanent online bans due to error code 2134-4508, according to IGN. These bans aren’t gameplay-related, they’re targeting the use of Mig cartridges, which let users play copied games stored on a microSD card.
To use the Mig, users need to acquire dumped game files, either created with a Mig Dumper or sourced from the internet, and store them on a microSD card. Nintendo has made it clear that both piracy and using your own game backups violate its rules.
Despite expectations that many users will play pirated titles, the creators of the Mig cartridge emphasize its official purpose as a backup and development device.
The product page underlines the importance of using only personally dumped game copies. To retain warranty protection for online play, users must ensure these copies include a valid Certificate, UID, and Card Set ID.
Nintendo Will Block Online Features On Switch 2 for Users of MIG Flash Carts
Though not instantly bricked, banned Switch 2 consoles face stiff penalties from Nintendo. YouTuber Scattered Brain shared that after receiving a ban, their device couldn’t access key features like the eShop or account unlinking.
They were able to move Virtual Game Cards to another device via Nintendo’s account site, hinting the ban is hardware-based.
But a post-ban factory reset made the console unable to sign into any Nintendo Account, effectively bricking it, in accordance with Nintendo’s updated privacy and service agreements.
Nintendo’s recent bans, especially aimed at Mig cartridge users, are in line with its tough stance on piracy.
Known for aggressively targeting both pirates and emulator developers, the company is now more determined than ever to enforce its rules, particularly with the Switch 2 setting new records as the fastest-selling console in history.
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