Nintendo Switch · Privacy & Security

Restrict content, playtime, and communication for younger players

Parental Controls can limit which games and content a profile can access by age rating, set daily play-time limits, and restrict messaging and screenshot sharing — configurable either on the console or from a companion smartphone app.

What you should know

  • Enable and configure basic restrictions directly under System Settings > Parental Controls on the console.
  • For finer control, install the free Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app and pair it with the console using the code shown in that same settings menu.
  • Set a PIN under Parental Controls so restriction settings can't be changed by the child without it.
  • Playtime limits can pause the console with a reminder, or fully suspend software launches once the daily limit is reached.

Losing or forgetting the Parental Controls PIN requires contacting Nintendo Support to reset it, since it cannot be bypassed from the console itself.

Why it matters

Console-level restrictions apply consistently regardless of which game is running, which is more reliable than relying on individual games' own age gates or settings.

Best practices

  • Set restriction level by the child's age using the app's built-in presets rather than configuring each option manually.
  • Review the weekly play activity summary the app sends to spot patterns before they become a problem.
  • Restrict SpotPass and posting to social media separately if the child profile will play online-capable games.

Common problems and fixes

Console and app won't pair
Make sure both the console and the phone are connected to the internet, and re-enter the 8-digit linking code shown under Parental Controls before it expires.
Forgot the Parental Controls PIN
Select 'Forgot Your PIN?' on the PIN entry screen to get a resolution code, then contact Nintendo Support with that code to reset it.

Tips and tricks

  • Playtime limits can be configured differently for weekdays versus weekends directly from the Parental Controls app.

Frequently asked questions

Can restrictions be set per profile instead of for the whole console?

Yes — Parental Controls are applied per user profile, so adult profiles on the same console can remain unrestricted.