Explanation
What this error means
Error 2819-0031 appears with “Suspending play due to limits on the use of upgrade packs.” Nintendo explains it generally means your Nintendo Account was used to play an upgrade pack on another console simultaneously. Like the DLC-limit code, it’s a licence-sharing limit, not a fault — closing the software elsewhere resolves it.
Official reference: Nintendo support page for 2819-0031
Diagnosis
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | Fixable at home? |
|---|---|---|
| Upgrade pack in use on another console at once | Very likely | Yes — close it elsewhere |
| This isn’t your primary console (online check) | Likely | Yes — set primary / stay online |
| Stale session on a second console | Possible | Yes — restart both |
| Temporary licence-check hiccup | Possible | No — retry later |
Repair
How to fix it
Ordered easiest-first. Try the next step only if the error comes back.
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Close the software on other consoles
If your account is active on a second Switch, close the game there — an upgrade pack tied to your account can’t run on two consoles at once.
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Set this console as your primary
On your primary console, your account’s content runs without the repeated online check that triggers this on a non-primary console.
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Restart the consoles involved
Restart the console showing the error and any other Switch signed into your account to clear a lingering session.
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Stay online when not primary
On a non-primary console you must be connected so the upgrade-pack licence can be verified — check your connection and retry.
Escalation
When it's not your fault
Signs the problem is on Nintendo's side — or in the hardware — rather than anything you can change:
- A family member was playing the upgraded game on another console at the same time.
- It only happens on a secondary console, not your primary one.
- It clears immediately once the game is closed elsewhere.
Questions
FAQ
What is an “upgrade pack”?
It’s content that upgrades a base game to an enhanced edition. Like DLC, it’s licensed to your account and can’t be used on two consoles simultaneously.
How does setting a primary console help?
Your primary console runs your account’s content without the per-session online check, avoiding this sharing conflict.
Is this a ban?
No — it’s a normal simultaneous-use limit. It resolves as soon as the content isn’t in use on two consoles at once.