Nintendo's Japan eShop and My Nintendo Store: A New Payment Policy
Effective March 25, 2025, Nintendo is implementing a new policy for its Japanese eShop, ceasing acceptance of foreign-issued credit cards and PayPal accounts. This decision, announced on January 30, 2025, via website and Twitter (X), aims to curb fraudulent activity. While the specifics of the "fraudulent use" remain undisclosed, the change impacts international customers' purchasing capabilities. Existing purchases remain unaffected.
Impact on International Consumers
This policy shift significantly alters the landscape for overseas consumers who previously relied on foreign payment methods to access the Japanese eShop. The Japanese eShop offers unique advantages, including exclusive titles and sometimes more favorable pricing due to exchange rates.
The loss of access to the Japanese eShop means international fans will miss out on exclusive games such as Yo-kai Watch 1 (Switch port), Famicom Wars, Super Robot Wars T, Mother 3, and various exclusive entries in the Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem franchises, along with other retro titles.
Alternative Purchasing Options
Nintendo encourages the use of Japanese-issued credit cards. However, obtaining one without Japanese residency presents a significant hurdle. A viable alternative is purchasing Japanese Nintendo eShop cards from online retailers like Amazon JP and PlayAsia. These cards allow users to add funds to their eShop accounts without providing location details.
The upcoming Nintendo Direct on April 2, 2025, focusing on the Nintendo Switch 2, may provide further clarification on this policy and future adjustments.
