Nintendo Switch firmware update finally makes the eShop usable

Being a bit later to the game than its contemporaries, Nintendo’s online storefronts have always been a step behind in a number of ways. While the Switch eShop was mostly fine at launch, the experience has gotten progressively slower over the years – especially on the OG Switch. Finally however, Nintendo have released a new system firmware update; introducing some nice quality-of-life improvements while also making overall navigation significantly faster and smoother.

Nintendo recently released firmware update 22.5.0 for the Nintendo Switch 1 and its successor. While the latter didn’t see too much in the way of improvements, Switch 1 users were treated to a number of notable enhancements; in particular with regards to the eShop.

Visually, the virtual storefront has been refreshed with a new design while also offering a dark mode option – highly appreciated given the abundance of bright white pages on its standard mode. Functionality-wise, the update also includes some welcome changes, including the ability to require a security PIN before accessing the service as well as now being able to rewind and skip-forward 10 seconds when watching trailers / gameplay videos.

Though typically a minor note in most system updates, their claims of “General system stability improvements to enhance the user's experience” can actually be felt, with Switch 1 owners noting immediate speed improvements across the eShop.

While far less of an issue on the Switch 2, Nintendo’s last-gen handheld has for years suffered with painfully slow navigation especially when scrolling through games. This of course compounded as more titles have been added, making for a cumbersome browsing experience.

Finally however, these pain points are seemingly no more, with the eShop now operating smoothly – and more importantly – fast.

KitGuru says: What did you think of the eShop on the OG Switch? Did its slowness bother you? How else could the eShopbe improved overall? Let us know your thoughts down below.

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