The Federal Bureau of Investigation has closed down Nsw2u, one of the most popular websites for downloading illegal Nintendo Switch games. This action happened on Thursday as part of a coordinated law enforcement operation targeting video game piracy.
Nsw2u was widely known among gamers who wanted to play Switch games without buying them legally. The site hosted ROM files that people could download and use on modified Switch consoles or computer emulators. These files contained complete copies of Nintendo games that normally cost between $30 to $60 each.
When visitors now try to access the website, they see an official seizure notice. The message explains that the FBI took control of the domain using a warrant issued by the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia. The Dutch financial crimes investigation agency FIOD also participated in this operation.
Recent Activity Before Shutdown
Users on online forums reported that the website was still working earlier on Thursday. Many people claimed they had successfully downloaded games just hours before the FBI seized the site. This timing suggests the operation was planned to catch the site while it was actively being used.
The European Union had already flagged Nsw2u on their piracy watchlist back in May. This listing marked the site as a known source of copyright violations and likely helped law enforcement track its activities.
Nintendo’s Ongoing Fight Against Piracy
Nintendo has been actively fighting game piracy for several years now. The company has taken legal action against various targets, including the creators of Yuzu, a popular emulator that allowed people to play Switch games on computers and gaming handhelds like the Steam Deck.
The gaming giant has also sued smaller websites that distribute ROM files for older gaming systems. Additionally, Nintendo has pursued legal cases against manufacturers of devices designed to bypass Switch security features.
The original Switch console was compromised by hackers early in its lifecycle. Since then, illegal copies of major games like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom have spread across the internet. This widespread piracy has likely influenced Nintendo’s approach to securing their newer hardware.
Impact on Switch 2 Users
Nintendo appears to be taking a harder stance with their recently launched Switch 2 console. Gamers who use unauthorized SD cards containing multiple ROM files from the original Switch are finding their new consoles banned from online services shortly after setup.
The company has made it clear they will disable devices that violate their terms of service. This aggressive approach shows Nintendo is serious about protecting their intellectual property and preventing the widespread piracy that affected the original Switch.
Read this also: How Nintendo is Taking Bold Steps to End Digital Game Piracy
