Overview of Nintendo’s GameChat Moderation
Nintendo’s GameChat moderation primarily targets situations where players might interact with random opponents online. Unlike other platforms, GameChat restricts participants to friends that players have specifically added on their accounts. Only these friends can report misconduct to Nintendo, ensuring a more controlled environment. Furthermore, to enhance identification, users must verify a phone number that matches their Nintendo account.
Parental Oversight
Nintendo strongly suggests that all GameChat interactions involving minors are supervised by parents.
Credit: Nintendo
Tools for Parent Notification
Nintendo enhances parental awareness by requiring the adult account holder on a Switch 2 system to set up the Nintendo Parental Controls app. Upon synchronization with the console, parents can approve new friends added to the child’s account. They can also mandate specific permissions via the app when their child wishes to utilize video chat features.
Privacy Considerations
The temporary recordings made by Nintendo during GameChat sessions appear to be minimally invasive from a privacy standpoint. However, for those concerned about potential oversight, it’s essential to be cognizant that Nintendo may have access to these recordings.
GameChat Terms and Conditions
Below is a summary of the pertinent sections of the GameChat Terms (as of June 5, 2025), which are not readily accessible elsewhere:
GameChat enables voice or video communication among friends while gaming on the Nintendo Switch 2 (note: video chat requires a separately purchased USB camera). All interactions are governed by the Nintendo Account User Agreement and Community Guidelines. Familiarize yourself with these guidelines to foster a positive online environment. Violations may lead to restricted access to online features.
Recording Notice
Your voice and video chat content is recorded temporarily on your device and that of your chat partners. In the event of guideline violations, reports can be submitted. You’re encouraged to report misconduct immediately. Users can review the last three minutes of their most recent GameChat sessions for reporting.
Review Process
Upon reporting, the recorded content and session details are sent to Nintendo for evaluation concerning guideline breaches. This review will be primarily based on submitted reports and users’ histories.
Consent Withdrawal
You may withdraw your consent for recording at any time via GameChat settings. This does not affect previous recordings; however, the feature will no longer be available to you thereafter.
