Nintendo Switch Heat Warning Issued as Temperatures in Japan Soar Above 35?C

Nintendo issued a public safety warning for users of the Nintendo Switch 2, urging them not to use the console in environments exceeding 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit). The advisory, posted through the company's official Japanese customer support Twitter account, was prompted by Japan's current heat wave, with temperatures rising above the system’s supported threshold. According to the statement, the Switch 2, as well as the original Nintendo Switch, is designed to operate only within a temperature range of 5°C to 35°C (41°F to 95°F). Nintendo warned that playing the console in extreme heat could cause it to overheat, potentially leading to malfunctions.

The alert was issued just hours after the July 31 Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase and came at a time when the Tokyo region was under an excessive heat warning, with forecasts anticipating a high of 37°C on August 5. Users were strongly encouraged to use the console indoors, ideally in air-conditioned environments, to prevent the device from reaching unsafe internal temperatures.

The alert was issued just hours after the July 31 Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase and came at a time when the Tokyo region was under an excessive heat warning, with forecasts anticipating a high of 37°C on August 5. Users were strongly encouraged to use the console indoors, ideally in air-conditioned environments, to prevent the device from reaching unsafe internal temperatures.

Since its global release on June 5, 2025, the Nintendo Switch 2 has experienced rapid commercial success, selling over 3.5 million units within the first four days of launch. By July 24, the system had surpassed 6 million units sold. The new console features upgraded hardware and a redesigned control scheme, and it supports backward compatibility with most games from the original Switch.

Among those compatible titles is Mario Kart Tour, Nintendo’s mobile racing game originally launched in 2019. Although the title is available across platforms, it has gained significant attention in recent years due to its monetization mechanics. In May 2023, a class-action lawsuit was filed in the United States against Nintendo over the game’s prior use of “Spotlight Pipes,” a system that allowed users to spend real-world money on randomized in-game items without disclosure of odds. According to the complaint, a minor spent over $170 using this feature, prompting accusations that the mechanic exploited children, relied on dark patterns to encourage repeated purchases, and constituted illegal gambling. The lawsuit described the system as “immoral” and called for refunds for all U.S. minors who had purchased Spotlight Pipes.

The lawsuit further alleged that Mario Kart Tour intentionally created game conditions that made it difficult to progress without engaging in paid Spotlight Pipe draws. In September 2022, Nintendo removed the Spotlight Pipe system and replaced it with the “Spotlight Shop,” which allows users to purchase specific in-game content with clearly displayed pricing and no randomized outcome. The legal complaint sought refunds for all minors in the United States who had spent money on Spotlight Pipes before their removal.

Meanwhile, the hardware-specific guidance around safe operation of the Switch 2 continues to be a focus for Nintendo, especially given the environmental risks posed by extreme heat. Although the console does not include a feature to monitor its internal temperature, Nintendo advises players to place it in well-ventilated areas and avoid enclosed spaces like cabinets or drawers. The Switch 2’s dock comes equipped with an additional fan to help regulate heat, but proper airflow is essential for it to function effectively. The company recommends using the system on open surfaces, such as desks or entertainment centers, when docked.

The advisory also applied to cold places. Nintendo mentioned that using the Switch 2 in temperatures below 5°C (41°F) could lead to similar issues. This part of the advice is connected with some people in northern Japan, like Hokkaido, where one person mentioned that indoor temperatures can drop to 5°C in winter because of bad heating. This comment surprised players from southern Japan, who couldn't believe some homes get that cold inside.

As of August 3, 2025, prices for original Switch consoles and accessories have increased in the U.S. market. Although no specific changes have been confirmed for the Switch 2, Nintendo included a cautionary note for users to take proper care of their devices to avoid future repair or replacement costs, especially if damage occurs due to operating the console outside the recommended temperature range.

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