To set parental controls on Nintendo Switch, open System Settings > Parental Controls > Parental Controls Settings, then choose a restriction level. Use Nintendo’s free Parental Controls app for play-time limits, activity reports, and a selected-game allow list. Most restrictions apply to the whole console, not just one child or one Super Mario game.
Choose the right control route
| Route | What it can do | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Switch console settings | Set an age-based restriction level or custom limits for software, communication, and supported social-posting features. | Use this for the core restrictions. Most apply across the console and its users. Nintendo’s console setup guide. |
| Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app | Set daily play-time limits and bedtime controls, view play activity, adjust communication restrictions, and allow selected games through the software restriction. | Requires a supported smart device and Nintendo Account. Nintendo describes the app as offering the most restriction options. Nintendo’s app guide. |
| Nintendo Account settings | Manage account-level items such as eShop purchase or viewing restrictions, friend suggestions, and third-party information sharing. | These are separate from the Switch’s console restriction screen. See Nintendo’s setup guide. |
Set restrictions on the Switch console
- From the HOME Menu, open System Settings.
- Scroll to Parental Controls, then select Parental Controls Settings.
- If you are setting controls without the phone app, press X and select Next.
- Select Restriction Level.
- Choose an age preset or Custom Settings, then save your selection.
Age-rating labels and thresholds depend on the rating organization and region selected on the system. Custom settings let you choose restrictions such as software age limits, communication features, and supported social-posting features. Available controls and their effect depend on the game.
Use the app for time limits, reports, and an allow list
Download the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app from the iOS App Store or Google Play Store using Nintendo’s app support page, link it to the Switch, and select Parental Controls in the app. Nintendo’s stated requirements include an internet connection, a supported smart device, and a Nintendo Account belonging to someone aged 18 or older. Its FAQ lists iOS 16.0 or newer and Android 8.0 or newer; requirements can change, so check Nintendo’s current FAQ before setup.
Set daily play-time and bedtime limits
The app lets you set a daily play-time limit of up to six hours, vary limits by day, and set a bedtime. When a limit is reached, you can choose whether the system suspends gameplay or displays a notification. If you enable both a play-time limit and bedtime, whichever comes first applies. App controls and displayed time ranges may change with updates.
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Review activity and allow a game through the software restriction
The app can show play activity and lets you designate selected games to bypass the restricted-software PIN requirement. An allow-listed game remains subject to the daily play-time limit. Use this option when a game is suitable for your household but its rating would otherwise trigger the software restriction.
Set communication limits where available
Nintendo’s controls can restrict in-game communication and user-generated content globally or for individual software where supported. The title “Super Mario” alone does not establish whether a particular release includes communication features; check that game’s regional listing and in-game settings before relying on a specific control.
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Do controls apply separately to each child?
No: Nintendo says the play-time limit is set for the console and applies equally to its individual users. The app can show activity by user, subject to Nintendo’s stated software and update conditions. Some games do not ask players to select a user profile, so their play time may appear combined. This means console parental controls are not separate child-specific restriction profiles.
What to check for the Super Mario game your child plays
Super Mario is a series, not a single rating or feature set. The guidance here explains Switch-wide controls; it does not establish the age rating, online features, or communication options of any particular Mario release. Check the exact game’s listing for your region and its own settings, then select the console restriction level and any app controls that fit those features. Nintendo’s setup guide explains the available system controls.
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App update for two parents or guardians
Nintendo Support lists Parental Controls app version 2.6.0, released September 14, 2026. The update added shared controls so two parents or guardians can use their respective devices and apps to view a child’s activity and set play-time limits. See Nintendo’s app update information.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Frequently Asked Questions
Can I set different play-time limits for each child on one Nintendo Switch?
No. Nintendo says the play-time limit applies to all users of the console equally. Activity may be reviewed by user in the app, although some games that do not ask players to select a profile may show combined play time.
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Does a game on the allow list ignore the time limit?
No. Allow-listing bypasses the restricted-software PIN requirement, but the game remains subject to the daily play-time limit.
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How much does the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app cost?
Nintendo says the app is free to download.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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