Nintendo Switch 2 eShop Will Not Feature Background Music, Confirms Producer Kouichi Kawamoto

The launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 marks a significant evolution in Nintendo’s hardware platform and digital ecosystem.

As anticipation builds for the June release, fans have been speculating about both hardware innovations and software experiences, particularly the Nintendo Switch 2’s eShop.

Notably, players with long memories recall the Wii Shop Channel’s iconic background music—a beloved feature that has become a nostalgic touchstone for digital game stores.

However, it has now been officially confirmed that the Nintendo Switch 2’s eShop will not include a dedicated background melody, continuing the quiet interface seen on the original Switch. This detail was clarified by Kouichi Kawamoto, producer for the Nintendo Switch 2, in a recent interview.

Addressing the absence of eShop-themed music, Kawamoto explained, 'Unlike earlier generations, today’s eShop is filled with game showcase videos.

We wanted to avoid interfering with that content, so we chose not to implement background music.' This insight provides a clear rationale for the decision, aligning with Nintendo’s focus on enhancing the overall user experience rather than relying solely on nostalgia. Nintendo’s first digital storefronts, like the Wii Shop Channel and the Nintendo DSi Shop, created a lasting impact partly due to their distinct musical identity.

Over time, though, Nintendo has shifted its priorities.

Since the 2017 launch of the original Nintendo Switch, the eShop has been noticeably silent.

Many fans hoped that the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 would offer a return to those earlier days, yet the new hardware will forego this signature audio flourish in favor of modern design priorities. Beyond the topic of background music, Kawamoto underscored that performance is at the forefront of the new eShop’s design.

'I wanted to ensure the experience is smooth,' he said.

'That means making sure scrolling through lists doesn’t stutter and pages load quickly.' These comments highlight Nintendo’s commitment to usability, especially as the Nintendo Switch 2 prepares to take its place as the flagship hardware. While nostalgia for features like the Wii Shop Channel’s cheerful tunes remains strong, Nintendo is clearly positioning the Switch 2’s eShop as a streamlined, efficient platform.

Gamers will be able to explore a growing catalog of digital titles on the new hardware, confident that browsing and purchasing will be faster and more responsive than ever before, even if the memorable melodies of past eShops remain a fond memory. Nintendo Switch 2 is slated for release in June 2024.

As the company continues to refine its digital services, players can expect a polished, user-friendly eShop experience designed to match the expectations of today’s gaming community.

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