Switch 2 jailbreak produces 1st game dumps even as Nintendo responds to piracy threat

A Switch 2 jailbreak has injected life into the console's homebrew scene. Nintendo took measures to block the ns2jb exploit, but word of another potential milestone is spreading. The first current-gen game dumps for Deltarune Chapters 1-4 and The Duskbloods beta have surfaced.

A major advancement?

Developed by pepsipu, the software-based ns2jb attacks a vulnerability in the console’s file system. The now-delisted SmileBASIC 4 title is a gateway for the hack. While piracy and emulation are unlikely without a kernel exploit, this opens the door to booting unofficial apps.

Another benefit of the Switch 2 jailbreak is modding, already seen with custom characters in Mario Kart World. Still, more significantly, complete game dumps have now emerged for two releases. With Deltarune, the romfs extraction exposed the files and assets for the RPG's initial chapters.

Meanwhile, Centro Leaks described a datamine of The Duskbloods on social media. A screenshot shows the file structure for the upcoming FromSoftware project. Mario Kart World is still being dissected, and a new 3D model of Peach has appeared.

If hackers can decrypt Switch 2 games, it would be a critical step toward creating playable ROMs. Nevertheless, lacking the hardware’s encryption keys, running backups in emulators won't be possible. Ns2jb also may not work with updated firmware versions after 23.0.1.

Although the Switch 2 jailbreak doesn't immediately unlock a thriving piracy scene, the gaming giant has taken action. SmileBASIC 4 is no longer available on the eShop, disappointing homebrew enthusiasts. However, a new WebKit exploit may make downloading it unnecessary.

Nintendo's response

Prominent developer Gezine, who is involved with the PS5 jailbreak, also says Nintendo contacted them. In July, the researcher discovered a separate offline userland exploit. Even so, they posted about the latest news on social media and remain a valuable resource for the homebrew community. It’s unclear what the message contained, but it could have been a cease-and-desist notice.

Despite lawsuits and the downfall of several emulators, Nintendo hasn't stopped the hosting of original Switch ROMs. Given that its successor is less than a year and a half old, it’s likely focused on strengthening the console’s security protocols.