Have you ever found yourself trying to learn a new language, but don't think that apps are enough? Or, you realize that your language classes are a little too formal for real life conversations? Or do you just want to have your Nintendo Switch display text in your own language?

Thankfully, your other love for games can be your ticket to language learning success. By changing the language on your Nintendo Switch, you can experience not only console-based vocabulary, but also in-game dialogue in native terms. Here's how you can do it.

Steps to Change Your Nintendo Switch Language

Changing your Switch language is a simple process. Here's what you need to do.

Nintendo Switch Language English

To change your Switch language, open System Settings > System > Language.

Nintendo-Switch---Language-Spanish-1

Next, select your preferred language from the list available languages. The Switch has 12 available language options that you can choose from:

  • English
  • French
  • German
  • Spanish
  • Italian
  • Dutch
  • Portuguese
  • Russian
  • Japanese
  • Chinese (traditional)
  • Chinese (simplified)
  • Korean

Then, your console will request to restart before it can change your device language settings. Select Restart to confirm and wait for your device to reset.

Do Your Games Change Language Too?

Pokemon in Spanish

Yes, your Switch games can also change language according to your console settings. However, it depends on the game and developer if it is automatic.

For example, in games like Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu, it will automatically change to your preferred Switch language. However, other games made by smaller developers may only be playable using English.

On the other hand, games like Animal Crossing will give a warning in the previous and new language the next time you open it after changing the language. Because of regional variations, some UI elements and character names change alongside language.

Experience Switch Games in Multiple Languages

Learning a language can be hard. Thankfully, it can also be fun when you're doing it while playing your favorite games. Plus, changing the language on your Switch can be helpful if it displays text in English, but English isn't your first language.

To make this language-learning method work, start with dialogue-based games wherein you have time to process the context and lines. Play games that are slow and let you take your time. Don't forget to have your phone ready to help translate, and don't be afraid to ask a friend when there's a term that you just don't get.