Nintendo Switch users surprised with heap of new free downloads you can claim now

Nintendo has said it’s time for some freebies. Obviously, they didn’t actually say that, don’t quote me on this. However, freebies are here and can be yours.

‘What freebies?’ you say. I hear you barking, big dog. The answer? More icons and profile personalisation than you can shake a stick at.

Can't wait to play the new Zelda game? Good job it's not too far away now

You know the drill by now, surely. You get yourself a Nintendo Switch Online subscription, you investigate the app and find out what campaigns are running, then you complete those and get platinum points.

Once you’ve got a little stash of platinum points, like some kind of digital Smaug, you can spend them on fancy little icons, backgrounds, and frames to make your profile picture look equally fancy.

‘What kinds of icons?’ Alright, less of the questions, I’m getting to it.

Well, they’ve been showcased on Twitter if you want to see them for yourself, but if you strap in, I’m going to sell these to you with my words.

For backgrounds, you’ve got exactly what you need. Lovely Nintendo-based patterns with Mario icons, or if you’re a plain Jane, there are some simple colured backgrounds.

If you want to go all out, there are some backgrounds based on Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Super Mario Odyssey, and Super Mario Wonder.

Of course, there are some lush icons available too, all featuring the delightful Nintendo artwork you’ve come to love.

You’ve got your Mario and Luigi, but there’s also a smattering of Bowser and his kids (he’s a doting dad, for real).

You’ve got a few random cats looking very demure, very mindful. And there are some Mario Kart items too - if you use the blue shell icon I have strong thoughts about your integrity.

My personal favourite from the bunch is the little doge with a hat on, from Super Mario Odyssey. Because animals are cute, but they’re cuter when we make them look like people.

Anyway, have at it, get your free stuff and don’t pretend like Nintendo doesn’t ever give you anything.