Nintendo Switch Piracy Crackdown: FBI Seizes Major ROM Site NS2U in Major Legal Victory

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Published on: July 11, 2025

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Nintendo has made significant strides in combating software piracy as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has officially seized NS2U, one of the internet’s major Nintendo Switch ROM distribution platforms.

The move marks new progress in Nintendo's ongoing global effort to protect its intellectual property and ensure a fair, secure market for legitimate game distribution. NS2U had garnered a reputation as one of the largest and most frequented online repositories for Nintendo Switch ROMs, offering unauthorized access to a vast library of games playable on Nintendo’s flagship hardware.

According to reliable sources, the site was already listed on the European Union’s annual piracy watchlist, highlighting its prominence in the illegal distribution ecosystem. Nintendo’s campaign against piracy is well-documented.

The company has consistently pursued legal measures against sites and individuals who illegally distribute copyrighted material, with a particular focus on the Nintendo Switch platform and the eShop ecosystem.

In recent years, Nintendo has taken a multi-pronged approach—issuing cease-and-desist letters, filing lawsuits, and collaborating with international law enforcement agencies to enforce anti-piracy laws. A Nintendo spokesperson reiterated the company’s commitment to protecting both developers and consumers from piracy-related harms.

In a translated statement, they explained, “Safeguarding our intellectual property and the creative work of our developers is essential for the continued vitality of the gaming industry.

The recent action taken by authorities against one of the largest Switch piracy sites underlines the seriousness of this commitment.” The takedown of NS2U is seen as a landmark victory for Nintendo, particularly as the Nintendo Switch remains one of the company’s leading consoles, with more than 132 million units sold globally since its launch in March 2017.

The Nintendo Switch’s broad appeal, powered by exclusive first-party titles and a thriving eShop library, has also made it a key target for piracy groups seeking to circumvent legal channels for digital game distribution. By working directly with the FBI and international partners, Nintendo has sent a clear and unequivocal message: the company will continue to pursue legal remedies against piracy and unauthorized ROM distribution.

Industry analysts note that such strong legal enforcement not only deters piracy but also supports the broader gaming ecosystem, rewarding developers and publishers for their investment in unique, high-quality software. As Nintendo maintains its vigilance, the shutdown of NS2U stands as a stark warning to other sites facilitating unauthorized access to Nintendo Switch game content.

With ongoing investments in eShop security and persistent legal action, Nintendo is well-positioned to protect its intellectual property and the integrity of its hardware platforms for years to come.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch ROM FBI Federal Bureau of Investigation NS2U eShop Nintendo Direct

US: FBI has seized a popular Nintendo Switch piracy site