Nintendo Switch 2 doesn’t have achievements, why there’s no eShop music

Nintendo has confirmed a couple of things that won’t be included with Switch 2 – specifically system-wide achievements and eShop music.

For achievements (or trophies in the case of PlayStation), that’s something seen on rival platforms for a few generations now. However, Nintendo has not fully embraced that feature. We do see it in some games here and there, but it’s most definitely a case-by-case basis.

For achievements on Switch 2, Nintendo of America’s Bill Trinen gave a clear answer on that front in an interview with Polygon. When asked if they’ll be around, he simply stated: “Nope.” It’s worth noting that The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will have achievements for their new Nintendo Switch 2 Editions, but again, that’s limited to these titles. Mario Kart World also seems to have its own system in place which Nintendo has yet to detail.

As for Nintendo eShop music, that won’t be included on Switch 2 as well. That mimics the current Switch which is also silent, aside from watching videos. The 3DS and Wii U eShops did have music, which some had hoped would return.

Nintendo Switch 2 producer Kouichi Kawamoto explained the decision, noting:

“Unlike back then, the eShop now has lots of videos that are showcasing the games. We didn’t want to intrude on that, so we don’t have music there.”

While the Nintendo eShop on Switch 2 won’t have music, there should be substantial improvements. Kawamoto said that he “wanted to make sure that it was a smooth experience.”