Nintendo Switch Demos: Comprehensive Guide to Free Game Trials on the eShop (North America & Europe)

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Published on: April 15, 2025

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Nintendo Switch Demos: Comprehensive Guide to Free Game Trials on the eShop (North America & Europe) With a thriving library of thousands of titles, the Nintendo Switch platform has become a haven for gamers seeking variety and innovation.

Both Nintendo and a wide range of third-party developers continually release demos for their games, allowing players to sample content before making a purchase.

This extensive approach has contributed to the Nintendo Switch’s immense popularity since its launch in March 2017, offering a dynamic selection of experiences accessible via the Nintendo eShop. Nintendo and its partner studios have made it substantially easier for players to try before they buy.

Currently, a vast selection of Switch demos is available across North America and Europe, providing English-speaking audiences with a robust preview library.

While the Japanese eShop does feature additional demos, many of these are exclusive to titles not currently localized or sold in Western markets, with their content playable only in Japanese. How to Download Nintendo Switch Demos Accessing demos on the Nintendo Switch is a straightforward process, designed with user convenience in mind.

Players can obtain free game trials through two primary methods: 1.

Via the Nintendo Switch eShop: Simply boot up the eShop on your console, use the search functionality to navigate to a specific game’s page, and look for the “Download Demo” button on the right.

If available, a single tap will initiate the download process instantly. 2.

Through the Official Nintendo Website: By signing in on the official Nintendo site—whether for North America or Europe—you can access the game page directly.

A visible “Download demo” button appears beneath the game title for supported titles.

In the UK, this option is typically located below the wish list section. North America and Europe: Updated Full List of Available Nintendo Switch Demos Gamers can explore an evolving, up-to-date master list of demos from both Nintendo and third-party developers, hosted on the official Nintendo website.

It’s important to note that demo availability may vary by region—some demos are exclusive to North America, while others are specific to Europe. This curated list spans fan favorites like 'Cadence of Hyrule: Crypt of the NecroDancer feat.

The Legend of Zelda', 'Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon', 'Metroid Dread', and newer releases including 'Pikmin 4', 'Fire Emblem Warriors: Three Hopes', and 'Princess Peach: Showtime'.

Indies such as 'Hollow Knight', 'Celeste', and numerous niche gems are also regularly featured.

The list is continually updated as new demos are released. A spokesperson from Nintendo noted that "providing demo versions allows fans to get hands-on experience with a wide variety of titles, supporting more informed purchasing decisions and opening up the world of Nintendo Switch games to new players every day." Stay Connected for Updates This reference will be updated on an ongoing basis as new and notable demos become available.

If you discover any discrepancies or wish to report missing demos for the North American or European eShop, feedback from the player community is always welcome.

With the Nintendo eShop’s accessible demo program, sampling before buying has never been simpler for Switch owners.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo eShop North America Europe Switch America

List of all Switch demos