How to Add Friends on Nintendo Switch: In 5 Steps With Photos

When it comes to remote connectivity and adding friends on the Nintendo Switch, the console is a surprisingly anti-social system for one that has no shortage of fantastic party and couch co-op titles. Even the chat feature in first-party games requires you to use a different app.

Interestingly, Nintendo hasn’t changed the “Friend Code” system that debuted on the Wii and 3DS, which is their version of the simplest way to add friends. However, if you’re unsure how to use that, here’s how to add friends on Nintendo Switch.

Keep In Mind

First, while we’ll teach you how to add friends using the 12-digit friend code, there are a few other ways to add friends to your Switch. These aren’t always as reliable or easy as the friend code, so keep that in mind.

The first way is searching for local users. This is easiest to do when playing co-op games that require multiple systems. You can use that feature to “search” for your friend or family’s console and add them with the click of a button. However, their console must be in the same area as you to add them.

Another option is adding friends that you’ve played with in the past. This is a great feature if you played with someone in an online multiplayer game and didn’t get their friend code. Careful though, this option doesn’t always work! So it’s best to get friend codes when you can.

Also, those you played with online, or others who have your Switch friend code, may send you friend invitations. Just click on your user symbol in the top-left corner of the home screen when they give you a request.

Next, select “Received Friend Requests” under the Add Friend menu by scrolling down. You can accept, reject, or block an invite. If you accept, they will automatically show up on your friend list.

How to Be Best Friends on Nintendo Switch

On the Nintendo Switch, you can choose to make someone your best friend too. When they get online, the friend will be at the top of the list if they do this. Also, you’ll see the games they’re playing. Once you’ve added someone to your friend list, there are a few simple actions you can take to make them your best friend.

Choose the User icon first, then the “Friend List” menu item. To move a buddy to the top of your list, select them and then choose the “Best Friend” option. Use the same procedure to de-list someone as your best friend.

How to Add Friends on Nintendo Switch

Okay, now let’s talk about how to add new friends to your Nintendo Switch.

Step 1: Go to Your Profile

First, you’ll want to go to your profile in the upper left-hand corner of your screen. Then, you’ll click on your profile and bring up that page.

Step 2: Click Add Friend

Next, scroll down and click “Add Friend.” This will show you ways to add friends, including the local options we talked about earlier. But you will want to choose to add a friend using a friend code.

Step 3: Choose Search With Friend Code

Once you’ve clicked on “Search With Friend Code,” it will bring up a pop-up box that allows you to type in your friend’s profile code. If you don’t have that, be sure to ask! They can find their code on their own profile.

Step 4: Type In the Friend Code

Once you have their friend code (it’s a 12-digit code and starts with SW), go ahead and type that in and click confirm.

Step 5: Confirm Your New Friend

From there, the screen will ask you if the player they’ve brought up is correct and whether you want to add them as a friend. You’ll have to confirm the choice once more.

Once you’ve confirmed your choice, they’ll be added to your friend list! You’ll also be able to see if they’re offline or online and play with them when you’re ready!

How to Add Friends on Nintendo Switch: Wrap Up

Use the Switch friend list to locate people quicker, play more games, and get the most out of your online experience whether you want to play with real-life friends or meet people online. It’s easy to add friends on the Switch, especially with our tips!