Why is internet connection required to start digitally downloaded games?

[-Apples-]

I noticed that when I download data I obtained from the Nintendo eShop, I am required to be connected to the internet to even start the games. However, the game won’t close out automatically if I lose internet connection (like if I take my Switch Lite to a restaurant or on a road trip). It just won’t let me start digitally downloaded software without internet.

Why is that? Is there a way where I can disable that?

 

[sunnibunniva]

it has to check who owns the game and whether that switch is set as their primary console or not

 

[Lavamaize]

Are you referring to why you have to be connected to the internet to download the game itself, or be connected to the internet to start the game itself, even though you have already downloaded it?

 

[-Apples-]

Are you referring to why you have to be connected to the internet to download the game itself, or be connected to the internet to start the game itself, even though you have already downloaded it?

That second question. I know why we have to connect to download the game.

 

[Lavamaize]

That second question. I know why we have to connect to download the game.

In all honesty then, I have no clue. It could be what @sunnibunniva said, but I have personally downloaded a game from the eShop, and it does not require a connection to start, but then again, I am the only user of my account with only one console registered so that could be it. It could also be that since the game was not developed by Nintendo it does not require a connection to start, or that the game does not solely revolve around, or require an internet connection to play.

 

[-Apples-]

Thanks! My Switch Lite is no longer checking if my downloaded software can be played. My regular Switch will ask, however.

All I had to do is to de-register the older switch and let my newer switch register.