In a significant shift for its digital storefront, Nintendo has begun implementing new eShop curation measures in select regions, specifically targeting the deluge of low-quality "shovelware" that has long plagued the platform. The move, timed ahead of the anticipated Switch 2 launch, aims to elevate visibility for higher-quality titles—but some worry legitimate indie gems might get caught in the crossfire.
Reports confirm that Nintendo has rolled out updated publishing guidelines for developers in Asia, including Japan. The changes prioritize games with "long-term sales potential" and those receiving "continuous development support." Crucially, the eShop algorithm now actively demotes titles deemed low-effort or spam-like, pushing them far below prominent releases and curated sections.
"This feels like Nintendo finally putting up a 'No Trash Allowed' sign," said one indie developer who requested anonymity. "But the fear is that 'small' might accidentally be read as 'low-quality' by their filters."
The overhaul isn’t just about aesthetics. According to sources, Nintendo is also optimizing the eShop’s backend infrastructure to improve loading times and navigation—a critical upgrade as the library balloons past 12,000 titles. As highlighted by The Verge, these technical tweaks could lay groundwork for a smoother Switch 2 store experience.
The Double-Edged Sword of Curation
While players welcome fewer "$0.99 asset-flip puzzle games" clogging search results, concerns linger about fairness. The new system risks obscuring innovative indie titles lacking marketing budgets. As IGN reports, Asia’s guidelines now require developers to justify their game’s "completeness" and post-launch support plans—a barrier for solo creators.
Nintendo hasn’t clarified if these policies will expand globally, but the timing suggests a broader strategy. With the Switch 2 expected within a year, a cleaner, more responsive eShop is likely a cornerstone of its digital ecosystem. As noted by GamesRadar, the balance between curation and accessibility remains delicate: "Burying shovelware is a win, but if hidden gems vanish too, did we really fix the store?"
What’s Next?
For now, the changes are a trial by fire in key markets. If successful, players can expect a more navigable eShop emphasizing substantial games—a necessity as Nintendo prepares to support two active platforms. Yet the indie community watches closely, hoping nuance isn’t sacrificed for the sake of a clean-up. After all, today’s overlooked indie darling could be tomorrow’s Hades.
As one developer put it: "Filter the sludge, sure. Just don’t drain the pond."
Image: Nintendo eShop homepage (Getty Images)
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