Friend Codes Are Still On Nintendo Switch 2, But There's An Easier Way To Add Friends

In lieu of a more traditional username system, the Nintendo Switch 2 will still use the friend codes from the previous console, but thankfully, there is an easier way to add friends this time around. In order to add friends on the Switch, players had to enter a unique (and rather long) number that was tied to Nintendo accounts. That still exists for the Nintendo Switch 2, but there will be a way to circumvent the slow and tedious friend code manual inputs.

In an interview with Polygon, Nintendo's Bill Trinen confirmed that players will be able to add friends by scanning a QR code in the Nintendo Switch mobile app instead of inputting the friend codes manually. You can also add notes when you add friends for your own reference in case someone changes their username or does something noteworthy in a game. All of your current friends on the original Switch will transfer to the Switch 2, so no need to ask for your friends' codes again.

QR Codes Should Be A Better Option For Switch 2 Owners

It's Not Ideal, But It's Better Than Nothing

While a lot of fans were probably hoping for a friends system more akin to Steam, PlayStation, or Xbox, the QR codes should be a better option than what was previously offered. Nintendo noted in the interview that this change was important to make because of the Nintendo Switch 2 GameChat feature, which requires you to have a friend registered on your friends list to use.

Nintendo Switch 2 May Address One Of The Biggest Problems Of The Switch 1

Speaking during a developer roundtable event, Nintendo may be aiming to address one of the biggest problems of the Switch 1, but the message is vague.

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However, it doesn't appear there is a way to directly share your unique QR code from the console itself, so while the process may be simpler on paper, users will still have to find a way to share their QR codes and friend codes outside the console, like the Nintendo Switch app, texting, social media, or other means.

Nintendo Has A Frustrating History Of Using Friend Codes

A Step In The Right Direction, But Not A Game-Changer

Sad Mario with the Nintendo Switch 2 flying around.

Nintendo's use of friend codes instead of a dedicated "friends" system has always been a point of contention for players. The friends registered on players' current Nintendo accounts will transfer to the Switch 2, which is a positive. But given how tedious just adding friends was with the original Switch, the decision to add QR Codes to help alleviate some of that frustration is bound to divide fans.

Nintendo is consistently paving its own way, like the Switch 2 not using a dedicated "achievement" system. But a friends system is a popular feature for players, and with the Nintendo Switch 2 having a bigger emphasis on social features, the QR codes might be a small step in the right direction, even though the friend code system will probably still leave a lot of fans wanting a better option.

Source: Polygon