: In some jurisdictions, like the USA, it is considered legal to create your own "backup" or "dump" of a physical cartridge you own for personal use.

Downloading and installing games on a Nintendo Switch can be done through official channels or, for advanced users with modified systems, through manual file transfers. Official Method (Nintendo eShop)

Emulators simulate Switch hardware. In theory, you can download a Switch ROM, load it into an emulator, and play on a powerful PC. However:

The golden age of “just download a ROM and play” ended with the Nintendo DS. The Switch is a modern console with active security measures, aggressive legal enforcement, and a thriving digital storefront.