Switch 2 hack used to exploit the system on day 1

Nintendo’s Switch 2 console is already getting manipulated by hackers

Nintendo launched its Switch 2 console yesterday, and hackers have already found a way to exploit the system. A user called @retr0.id on Bluesky has demonstrated a userland ropchain exploit to display a framebuffer graphics demo. While this is far from a full hack of the system, this is a clear sign that Nintendo’s new console isn’t immune to hacking.

This exploit does not allow users to play hacked or pirated games on their consoles or run unlicensed programs. This is a simple exploit, not a hack that enabled native code execution. Regardless, it is a starting point for hackers and a sign that Nintendo may need to beef up the security of its Switch 2 hardware.

@retr0.id’s exploit is a userland Return-Oriented Programming (ROP) exploit. This exploit operates at the user level, on top of the Switch 2’s operating system and programs. This hack does not enable root or admin access to the system. Below, you can see this exploit being used to display some custom checkerboard graphics.

to be clear, this is a userland exploit not native code exec, but this is how it starts

— MVG (@ModernVintageG) June 5, 2025

As of now, this Nintendo Switch 2 exploit has no practical uses. However, it is an early sign that the Switch 2 is hackable. If hackers continue to find exploits like this, it’s only a matter of time before they exploit the system’s security at a deeper level, gaining admin or root access to the system. After that, hackers could use their Switch 2 consoles to run custom homebrew software. Furthermore, hackers could force the system’s hardware to operate at higher speeds. After all, the original Switch had an overclocking scene thanks to these kinds of hacks.

You can join the discussion on hackers exploiting Nintendo’s Switch 2 console on day 1 on the OC3D Forums.