Used Switch 2 buyers beware, people are returning banned systems
Walmart sells banned Switch 2 console as an “open box return”
Earlier this month, we reported that Nintendo has begun banning Switch 2 consoles using MIG Switch cartridges, preventing them from accessing online features. Now, it looks like these banned systems have started impacting the used console market, as Walmart has sold a banned system to a customer as an “open box return”.
A Reddit user called Bimmytung thought that they were getting a good deal, but it turned out that their system had the now-infamous 2124-4508 Error Code. This is the error code of a banned Switch 2 console. This console’s original owner must have used a MIG cartridge in their system and later returned it to Walmart. Thankfully, Walmart accepted Bimmytung’s return.
Below is what Binnytung has to say about their experience on Reddit.
Been casually looking for a Switch 2. Today I was driving between work sites and stopped at two different Walmarts. At the second one I find a Mario Kart edition sitting in the case and couldn’t believe my luck. Guy finally comes over to help get it out of the case and we bring it up to the electronics counter. He tells me it is an open box return so we open it to inspect. Physically it’s fine, everything seems there. Notice that the Mario Kart code is scratched off (it’s like a scratch-off lottery ticket with the coffee previously covered). Hmm. Naturally wonder if the original buyer redeemed the code and returned the system. They knocked $50 off the price so I figured I’d roll the dice and at least have the hardware. Bought a Pro Controller 2 while I was at it. Finally after work I get a chance to set it up. Quickly realize I need the super special micro SD card and none of the ~half dozen in the house would work. Drive ten minutes to Target and get one there and pick up a few other accessories as well. Get home and go to finish the setup- quickly get Error Code 2124-4508. A quick Google search shows me I’m screwed. FML.
Thankfully my local Walmart accepted the return without any fuss but still… I wish nothing but enthusiastic double gonorrhea to the lowlife scum that did this.
Retailers need to be more careful when accepting Switch 2 returns
Nintendo is happy to ban MIG cartridge users from accessing the Switch 2’s online services. These bans are at a console level, which means that banned systems will never be fully functional again. Walmart’s error highlights the need for retailers to test returned Switch 2s to ensure they are not banned. This would ensure that these systems are not sold to new users. Banned systems appear fully functional until they try to use online services. This is when error code 2124-4508 appears.
Purchasers of used Switch 2 consoles need to be careful. To avoid problems, users should purchase their systems from retailers with a good return policy or marketplaces with strong consumer protections. This will help ensure that you can get your money back if you purchase a banned console.
You can join the discussion on Walmart selling banned Switch 2 consoles on the OC3D Forums.
