A security researcher has jailbroken the Nintendo Switch 2 using a software-only exploit dubbed ns2jb. Developed with OpenAI tools, the tethered hack allows users to run homebrew software and mod games like Mario Kart World on firmware version 23.0.1.
The exploit breaks a security streak that had held since the system’s launch, arriving just over a year after the console’s debut. While not a permanent system-wide unlock, the hack enables arbitrary native code execution with the privileges of ordinary system modules and the console’s built-in filesystem module.
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The process begins with a 32-bit integer overflow bug in the game’s array handling to establish initial code execution. This is combined with a buffer overflow involving filesystem path normalization to gain more powerful access.
Nintendo will likely remove the software from the store and patch the vulnerability in a future update because the exploit depends on a specific eShop title.
Pepsipu Mods Mario Kart World
Pepsipu demonstrated a modified version of the Switch 2-exclusive title Mario Kart World to prove the exploit’s viability. Footage shared on X shows the racing game running with several custom characters that are not part of the original game:
- Hatsune Miku
- Cinnamoroll (Sanrio)
- Red (Angry Birds)
The jailbreak allows for backing up save files and running homebrew applications beyond cosmetic mods. However, the exploit is tethered, meaning it does not survive a reboot. The user must repeat the process every time the console is turned off to regain access.
Ns2jb Lacks Full Kernel Control
Ns2jb does not grant full kernel-level control despite the breakthrough. It is a software-only exploit that does not require a hardware modchip, but it lacks the capabilities of a complete custom firmware solution.
Reports state the current state of the hack does not allow users to run video game backups or an LLM on the device.
Some users view it as a gateway to reverse-engineering and hardware investigation, while others expressed concern over the impact on developers.
i jailbroke the nintendo switch 2so i modded cinnamoroll, peter griffin, hatsune miku, and more into Mario Kart World, a switch 2 exclusivenow watch my friends and i get cooked by botslearn more and get the exploit https://t.co/ykjgyfrFRp pic.twitter.com/BOcFhejRz1
Thanks for destroying the livelihoods of creative artists
Switch 2 user, via GamesRadar+
Other reactions include concerns regarding whether the use of AI will lead to leaks before releases, similar to what occurred with the original Nintendo Switch.
Researchers Target PC Emulation
The current jailbreak provides the tools for researchers to inspect system software and modify games. The ability to execute native code and access the filesystem module provides the foundation needed to eventually move toward PC emulation.
Gezine, who recently identified a separate universal exploit for both the original Switch and Switch 2, stated that he spoke with pepsipu and that the work seems legit. Gezine further noted that pepsipu was aware of his own userland exploit, which is distinct from ns2jb.
The jailbreak also offers a chance to study the system’s NVIDIA DLSS implementation, which is confirmed to be quite different from the regular upscaler supported by NVIDIA RTX GPUs.
The timeline for the development of emulation remains unknown.
