The soon-to-be-released Nintendo Switch 2 retains its predecessor’s friend code system, albeit with enhancements designed to streamline adding friends. Traditionally, players needed to input lengthy and cumbersome codes associated with their Nintendo accounts. Thankfully, there’s now a more convenient method available to ease this process.
In a recent interview with Polygon, Bill Trinen from Nintendo revealed that players will soon have the option to add friends by scanning a QR code through the Nintendo Switch mobile app. This advancement significantly reduces the tedium involved in manually entering friend codes. Additionally, users can also append custom notes for each friend, which may come in handy if their game identity changes or if they achieve something remarkable while gaming. Importantly, all friends from the original Switch will automatically transfer to the Switch 2, eliminating the need to request codes again.
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QR Codes: An Improved Approach for Switch 2 Users
It’s Not Perfect, But It’s an Improvement
Although many players hoped for a friend system more similar to what competitors like Steam, PlayStation, or Xbox offer, the introduction of QR codes is indeed an improvement over past methods. According to Nintendo, this change supports the new GameChat feature postulated for the Switch 2, which necessitates having friends registered on your list to utilize it effectively.
Nevertheless, it remains unclear how users will share their unique QR codes directly from the console. Therefore, while the process appears more efficient, players may still need to resort to external platforms such as the Nintendo Switch app, text messaging, or social media to exchange their QR codes and friend codes.
Nintendo’s Legacy of Friend Code Frustration
A Step Forward, But Not Revolutionary
Nintendo’s historical reliance on friend codes rather than a comprehensive “friends” system has been a longstanding source of frustration among gamers. On a positive note, players’ current friend lists will transfer over to the Switch 2, which is certainly encouraging. However, the tediousness of adding friends on the original Switch raises concerns as to whether the introduction of QR codes will adequately alleviate these frustrations, likely generating mixed reactions among fans.
Nintendo has consistently charted its own course in gaming, as evidenced by the Switch 2’s lack of a traditional “achievement” system. While a friends system is vital for enhancing social interactions among players, the QR code initiative, despite being a minor step forward, does not fully address the concerns surrounding the lengthy friend code process. Many fans may still find themselves hoping for a more robust solution in the future.
Source: Polygon