Gaming on your Nintendo Switch is an absolute blast, isn't it? From epic adventures in Hyrule to intense battles in Super Smash Bros., the Nintendo eShop is your gateway to a vast universe of digital games, DLC, and even Nintendo Switch Online memberships. But sometimes, when you're ready to dive into a new title, you might wonder: "Can I use my American Express card to make that purchase?"
While other platforms often readily accept American Express, Nintendo's eShop has historically been a bit more picky. However, there are ways to utilize your trusty Amex card to fuel your Nintendo gaming addiction! This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, step-by-step, ensuring you can seamlessly use your American Express for all your eShop needs.
Let's get you set up to expand your game library! Ready to start?
A Gamer's Guide to Using American Express on Nintendo eShop
Step 1: Understanding Nintendo eShop's Payment Policies (and Amex's Role)
Before we jump into the "how-to," it's crucial to understand the landscape. Nintendo eShop primarily accepts Visa and Mastercard credit/debit cards directly. Historically, American Express has not been directly supported as a primary payment method within the eShop itself due to various factors, often cited as higher merchant fees associated with Amex transactions.
However, this doesn't mean your American Express card is useless! There are clever workarounds that allow you to leverage your Amex card indirectly. The key is often to use your American Express card to purchase Nintendo eShop Gift Cards from retailers that do accept Amex, and then redeem those gift cards on your eShop account.
Key Insight: Think of your American Express as the key to unlock Nintendo eShop funds, not the direct payment vehicle.
Step 2: The Indirect Route – Purchasing Nintendo eShop Gift Cards
This is the most reliable and recommended method for using your American Express card for Nintendo eShop purchases.
Sub-heading: Where to Buy Nintendo eShop Gift Cards with American Express
You'll need to find online or physical retailers that accept American Express and sell Nintendo eShop Gift Cards. Here are some common and reliable options:
Online Retailers:
Amazon.com: Often a go-to for many online purchases, Amazon frequently accepts American Express cards for digital and physical eShop gift cards. Look for "Nintendo eShop Gift Card [Digital Code]" to get the code instantly via email.
BestBuy.com: Another major electronics retailer, Best Buy generally accepts American Express for online purchases, including eShop gift cards.
Target.com / Walmart.com: These retail giants often sell eShop cards both in-store and online, and they typically accept Amex.
Official Retailer Websites: Check the websites of other large electronics or gaming retailers in your region. Most will display accepted payment methods at checkout.
Recharge.com or Similar Gift Card Resellers: Websites specializing in digital gift card sales often accept a wide variety of payment methods, including American Express, for Nintendo eShop cards. Always ensure you are using a reputable site.
Physical Retailers (In-Store):
Many physical stores like GameStop, Best Buy, Walmart, Target, and even some grocery stores and pharmacies sell physical Nintendo eShop gift cards. When purchasing in person, you can simply use your American Express card at the checkout counter.
Sub-heading: The Purchase Process
Choose Your Retailer: Select a retailer from the options above that you are comfortable with and know accepts American Express.
Navigate to Gift Cards: On their website or in-store, locate the "Gift Cards" section, specifically looking for "Gaming Gift Cards" or "Nintendo eShop Cards."
Select Denomination: Choose the amount of the eShop card you wish to purchase (e.g., $10, $20, $35, $50, $70). Consider purchasing slightly more than your intended purchase to cover any future small purchases.
Add to Cart/Proceed to Checkout: Add the selected gift card to your shopping cart.
Enter Payment Information: At the checkout, select "Credit Card" as your payment method and enter your American Express card details (card number, expiration date, security code).
Complete Purchase: Review your order and complete the transaction.
Receive Code: If purchasing a digital code, you will typically receive the 16-digit eShop code via email within minutes (or immediately on the confirmation page). If purchasing a physical card, the code will be on the back, usually under a scratch-off strip.
Step 3: Redeeming Your Nintendo eShop Gift Card
Once you have your 16-digit Nintendo eShop code, the next step is to redeem it on your Nintendo Switch.
Sub-heading: On Your Nintendo Switch Console
Access the HOME Menu: From your Nintendo Switch console, ensure you are on the HOME Menu.
Select Nintendo eShop: Look for the orange shopping bag icon on the HOME Menu and select it.
Choose Your User Account: If multiple user profiles are linked to your console, select the user account you wish to add the funds to. This is important as eShop funds are tied to individual Nintendo Accounts.
Enter Code: On the left-hand menu within the eShop, scroll down and select "Enter Code" (or "Redeem Code," depending on your region/software version).
Input 16-Digit Code: Carefully enter the 16-character download code you received from your American Express purchase. Double-check for any typos! The code often has a mix of numbers and letters.
Confirm and Add Funds: Once entered, select "OK" or "Confirm." The eShop will then display the amount being added to your Nintendo Account balance. Confirm to proceed.
Funds Added! You will receive a confirmation that the funds have been successfully added to your Nintendo Account.
Sub-heading: Via a Web Browser (Nintendo Account Website)
You can also redeem eShop codes directly through the Nintendo Account website, which can be convenient if you're not near your Switch.
Open Web Browser: On your computer or mobile device, open a web browser.
Go to Nintendo Account Website: Navigate to accounts.nintendo.com.
Sign In: Sign in to the Nintendo Account you wish to add funds to.
Select Shop Menu: Once logged in, on the left-hand side, click on "Shop Menu" or "Shop and Payments."
Redeem Code: Under "Add Funds," select "Redeem a Nintendo eShop Card."
Enter 16-Digit Code: Enter the 16-character download code into the provided field.
Confirm: Follow the on-screen prompts to confirm and add the funds to your account.
Step 4: Making Your eShop Purchase
Now that your Nintendo Account has funds, you can purchase any game, DLC, or subscription directly from the Nintendo eShop!
Browse the eShop: Explore the Nintendo eShop for the games or content you want to buy.
Select Your Item: Choose the game, DLC, or subscription you wish to purchase.
Proceed to Purchase: Select "Proceed to Purchase" or "Buy Now."
Confirm Funds: The eShop will automatically default to using your available Nintendo Account funds first. Confirm the purchase.
Enjoy Your New Content! The content will begin downloading to your Nintendo Switch.
Step 5: Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best intentions, sometimes things don't go as smoothly as planned. Here are some common issues and how to tackle them:
Sub-heading: American Express Card Declined During Gift Card Purchase
Incorrect Information: Double-check your card number, expiration date, and the 4-digit security code (CVV) on your American Express card. Amex cards typically have a 4-digit security code on the front, unlike Visa/Mastercard's 3-digit CVV on the back.
Billing Address Mismatch: Ensure the billing address you entered exactly matches the address on file with American Express. Even a small discrepancy can cause a decline.
Insufficient Funds/Credit Limit: Verify that you have enough available credit or funds on your American Express card to cover the gift card purchase.
Fraud Protection: American Express has robust fraud protection. If this is an unusual purchase pattern for you, Amex might flag it. Check your Amex app or call their customer service to confirm the transaction.
Retailer Specific Issues: Some smaller online retailers might have stricter rules or issues with Amex. Try a different, larger retailer like Amazon or Best Buy if you encounter persistent declines.
Sub-heading: Nintendo eShop Code Not Working
Typos: Carefully re-enter the 16-digit code. It's easy to mix up similar characters (e.g., '0' and 'O', '1' and 'I', 'S' and '5').
Region Lock: Nintendo eShop cards are region-specific. Ensure the card you purchased matches the region of your Nintendo Account (e.g., a North American eShop card won't work on a European account).
Already Used: If someone else has access to your codes, they might have redeemed it already.
Activation Issue: In rare cases, physical gift cards might not be properly activated at the point of sale. If you bought a physical card and it's not working, contact the retailer you purchased it from. For digital codes, this is less common but can happen.
Temporary eShop Glitch: Occasionally, the eShop itself might have temporary issues. Wait a little while and try again.
Sub-heading: General Payment Issues on Nintendo eShop (even with funds)
Internet Connection: Ensure your Nintendo Switch has a stable internet connection.
System Update: Make sure your Nintendo Switch system software is up to date.
Nintendo Account Issues: Confirm your Nintendo Account is in good standing and not experiencing any issues (e.g., temporary suspension).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions related to using American Express on the Nintendo eShop, with quick answers:
How to use American Express directly on Nintendo eShop?
You generally cannot use American Express directly as a primary payment method on the Nintendo eShop. The eShop typically accepts Visa and Mastercard.
How to add American Express to my Nintendo account for purchases?
You cannot directly add an American Express card to your Nintendo account for eShop purchases. Instead, use your Amex to buy Nintendo eShop Gift Cards from other retailers.
How to buy Nintendo eShop cards using American Express?
Purchase Nintendo eShop Gift Cards from major online retailers (like Amazon, Best Buy, Target) or physical stores (like GameStop, Walmart) that accept American Express.
How to redeem a Nintendo eShop code after purchasing with American Express?
On your Nintendo Switch, go to the eShop, select your user, then choose "Enter Code" from the left menu and input the 16-digit code. Alternatively, redeem it on the Nintendo Account website.
How to troubleshoot American Express card declines when buying eShop cards?
Check for incorrect card details, billing address mismatch, insufficient funds, or potential fraud flags from Amex. Try a different retailer if issues persist.
How to check my Nintendo eShop balance after using an American Express purchased gift card?
Your eShop balance will be displayed in the top-right corner of the Nintendo eShop screen after you redeem a gift card.
How to avoid issues when using American Express for Nintendo Switch games?
Always purchase Nintendo eShop Gift Cards from reputable retailers that accept American Express, and ensure the gift card's region matches your Nintendo Account's region.
How to use American Express Membership Rewards points for Nintendo eShop?
You can potentially use American Express Membership Rewards points to purchase gift cards from retailers (like Amazon) that offer this option, and then use those gift cards to buy Nintendo eShop cards.
How to get a refund if my American Express purchased eShop code doesn't work?
If a purchased eShop code is invalid or doesn't work, contact the retailer where you bought the gift card for assistance or a refund. Keep your proof of purchase.
How to manage my Nintendo eShop payment methods if American Express isn't supported?
Since Amex isn't directly supported, manage your eShop funds by regularly purchasing and redeeming Nintendo eShop Gift Cards, which effectively adds funds to your Nintendo Account balance.
