Nintendo EShop Sales: How To Find The Best Deals
Hey there, fellow gamers! Ever wondered if those awesome games on the Nintendo eShop ever go on sale? The answer is a resounding YES! Nintendo eShop sales are a fantastic way to snag some amazing titles without breaking the bank. Let's dive into the details of how these sales work and how you can make the most of them.
Understanding Nintendo eShop Sales
Nintendo eShop sales are promotional events where digital games are offered at discounted prices for a limited time. These sales can range from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the specific promotion. Nintendo frequently holds sales to coincide with holidays, special events, or even just to highlight certain games. These sales events provide an excellent opportunity for players to expand their game libraries without paying full price. Keep your eyes peeled, because these deals can pop up when you least expect them, offering significant savings on some seriously great games. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or just starting your Nintendo journey, understanding how these sales work is key to getting the best bang for your buck.
The types of discounts vary widely. You might find indie games with significant price cuts, sometimes as much as 50% to 75% off. AAA titles from Nintendo and other major publishers also go on sale, although the discounts might not be as steep. Still, even a 20% or 30% discount on a big-name game can save you a good chunk of change. These sales are not just limited to older titles; sometimes, even relatively new releases get a temporary price cut to boost sales and attract new players. One thing to note is that the availability of specific games on sale can vary by region, so it's always a good idea to check the eShop in your country to see what's on offer. Also, keep an eye out for themed sales, like indie game showcases or sales celebrating a particular franchise or game genre. These curated sales events can help you discover hidden gems you might have otherwise missed.
Nintendo also participates in larger, industry-wide sales events, such as Black Friday and Cyber Monday. During these periods, you can expect to see some of the deepest discounts of the year on a wide selection of games. Additionally, Nintendo often runs its own seasonal sales, such as summer and holiday promotions, offering plenty of opportunities to save throughout the year. To stay informed about upcoming sales, it's a good idea to follow Nintendo's official social media channels, sign up for their email newsletter, or regularly check the Nintendo eShop news section. With a little bit of planning and vigilance, you can build an impressive collection of games without emptying your wallet.
How to Find the Best Deals
Alright, so you know the sales exist, but how do you actually find the best deals? Here are some tried-and-true methods to help you sniff out those sweet discounts:
1. Check the Nintendo eShop Regularly
This might seem obvious, but it's the most straightforward way to see what's currently on sale. The eShop has a dedicated section for deals, which is updated frequently. Make it a habit to check this section every few days to ensure you don't miss anything. When browsing the eShop, you can filter the games by price, genre, and other criteria to quickly find what you're looking for. Don't just focus on the front page; take some time to explore the different categories and sections. Nintendo often highlights specific sales events or promotions with banners and special layouts, making it easier to spot the latest deals. Additionally, you can view a list of games that are currently on sale by sorting the games by price, from lowest to highest. This can help you find some hidden gems that you might have overlooked otherwise. Also, be sure to check the "Great Deals" section, which is specifically dedicated to discounted games. By regularly visiting the eShop and exploring its various sections, you'll increase your chances of finding amazing deals on your favorite games.
2. Use Deal Websites and Forums
There are numerous websites and online forums dedicated to tracking game deals. Sites like Deku Deals, Nintendo Life, and Reddit's r/NintendoSwitchDeals are excellent resources. These platforms aggregate deals from various sources and allow users to share and discuss the latest discounts. Deku Deals, in particular, is super handy because you can create a wishlist of games and receive email notifications when those games go on sale. This way, you don't have to constantly monitor the eShop or various websites manually. These communities often share insider tips or early information about upcoming sales, giving you a heads-up before the official announcement. By participating in these online communities, you can also benefit from the collective knowledge and experience of other gamers, who may have valuable insights into which games are worth buying at a discounted price. Moreover, deal websites and forums often provide user reviews and ratings, helping you make informed decisions about your purchases. So, if you're serious about finding the best deals, make sure to leverage these online resources to your advantage.
3. Follow Nintendo on Social Media
Nintendo's official Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram accounts are great sources for announcements about upcoming sales and promotions. Following these accounts ensures you'll be among the first to know when a new sale goes live. Social media is also a great way to discover flash sales or limited-time offers that might not be widely advertised elsewhere. In addition to following Nintendo's official accounts, you might also want to follow accounts dedicated to Nintendo news and deals. These accounts often retweet or share information about sales from other sources, giving you a more comprehensive view of the available discounts. Engaging with Nintendo's social media channels can also provide opportunities to participate in contests and giveaways, where you could win free games or other prizes. So, don't underestimate the power of social media when it comes to staying informed about the latest Nintendo eShop sales and promotions.
4. Sign Up for Nintendo's Email Newsletter
Nintendo's email newsletter often includes information about upcoming sales, new game releases, and other promotions. Subscribing to the newsletter ensures that you'll receive these updates directly in your inbox. This is a convenient way to stay informed without having to actively seek out the information yourself. The newsletter might also include exclusive discount codes or early access to certain sales, giving you an extra edge in snagging the best deals. In addition to sales announcements, the newsletter often features articles and interviews related to Nintendo games and developers, providing you with valuable insights and behind-the-scenes information. By subscribing to Nintendo's email newsletter, you'll not only stay up-to-date on the latest sales and promotions, but also gain access to exclusive content and opportunities to engage with the Nintendo community.
5. Check Third-Party Retailers
Sometimes, third-party retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and GameStop offer digital download codes for Nintendo Switch games at discounted prices. It's worth checking these retailers periodically to see if they have any deals that aren't available on the eShop. These retailers often run their own promotions to compete with the eShop, so you might find some great bargains. These deals can be especially attractive if you have gift cards or store credit with these retailers. Moreover, some retailers offer loyalty programs that can provide additional discounts or rewards on your purchases. Keep an eye out for bundle deals that include digital games along with physical products, such as consoles or accessories. By expanding your search beyond the eShop and checking third-party retailers, you'll increase your chances of finding the best possible deals on Nintendo Switch games.
Tips for Making the Most of eShop Sales
Okay, you know where to find the sales, but here are a few extra tips to help you maximize your savings:
- Create a Wishlist: The Nintendo eShop allows you to create a wishlist of games you're interested in. This makes it easy to track the prices of those games and see when they go on sale.
 - Be Patient: If a game you want isn't currently on sale, don't despair! It's likely to go on sale eventually. Just keep an eye on it and wait for the right moment.
 - Check Reviews: Before buying a game, especially one you're not familiar with, take a moment to read some reviews. This can help you avoid wasting money on a game you might not enjoy.
 - Compare Prices: Don't assume that the eShop always has the best price. Check other retailers to make sure you're getting the best deal.
 - Consider Bundles: Sometimes, game bundles offer a better value than buying individual games. If you're interested in multiple games from the same series or publisher, a bundle might be the way to go.
 
Conclusion
So, do Nintendo eShop games go on sale? Absolutely! With a little bit of effort and these insider tips, you can build an impressive library of games without emptying your wallet. Happy gaming, everyone! And remember, patience and a bit of research can save you a ton of money in the long run. Keep an eye on those sales, and you'll be enjoying new adventures in no time!