An unfortunate Nintendo Switch 2 owner has issued a viral warning to the gaming community: Nintendo’s permanent bans are truly permanent—no appeal, no rollback, no mercy.
Reddit user Funaoe24 recently shared their frustrating experience with a system-wide ban from Nintendo after what seemed like a harmless username joke. According to their post, the ban was triggered when their sister changed her user nickname to “Twink Link,” a playful mashup of LGBT+ slang and The Legend of Zelda‘s iconic hero.
That small joke led to serious consequences. Nintendo issued a “System Ban,” which barred the entire console—not just the account—from accessing any online services, including the Nintendo eShop, multiplayer features, and cloud saves.
“They told us the only solution was to return the console,” Funaoe24 explained, referencing Nintendo’s customer support response. “There’s no way to reverse the ban.”
Switch 2 System Bans: What You Need to Know
Much like the original Switch, the Switch 2’s online services are centrally managed by Nintendo. This means:
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Bans can apply at the account level or the console level
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System bans are tied to the hardware, making the device permanently restricted
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Nintendo rarely offers an appeal process, and customer support options are limited
Offenses that may result in bans include:
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Inappropriate or offensive usernames
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Violations of the Nintendo Code of Conduct
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Usage of pirated software or unofficial modifications
The Risk Behind a Name
The most surprising part of this story is how something as small as a nickname led to such a harsh penalty. While some users argue the name was innocent, Nintendo appears to take even mild infractions seriously, especially on a newly released platform.
Nintendo’s Only Solution: Replace the Console
Funaoe24 shared that the only recommendation from support was to attempt returning the console to the retailer. This has caused concern across the community, especially for shared consoles or families with multiple users.
How to Avoid Getting Your Switch 2 Banned
Here are a few safety tips:
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Avoid using jokes, slang, or pop culture references in your username
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Don’t mod your system or install unofficial software
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Follow Nintendo’s official Terms of Service and Community Guidelines
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Be cautious when letting others—especially younger siblings—use your account
With the Nintendo Switch 2 still new and policies strictly enforced, it’s clear that users need to tread carefully. As this Reddit story shows, even an innocent username can cost you access to everything online—with no way back.
If you’re picking a username or letting others use your device, think twice. Nintendo bans are not only real—they’re permanent.