April 22, 2026, 8:52 am | Read time: 4 minutes
Perhaps some of you know this feeling: You’re quickly excited by new things, buy them, and before you can delve into them, something new comes out. You end up accumulating more than you can consume. In the book scene, this is referred to as a “SUB,” or “stack of unread books.” In movies or games, it’s often more harshly called the “Pile of Shame.” Nintendo is taking action against this.
Nintendo Reminds Us of the “Pile of Shame”
Owning things you’re passionate about is fun. But in the race to always be up-to-date and able to join the conversation, many people buy more games than they actually need. Time-limited special offers exacerbate this problem, as people think they can snag a bargain and play the title later—at least they got it cheap.
But because many prefer to maintain their shameful stack rather than reduce it, Nintendo is currently addressing the “Pile of Shame” with pop-up messages. As users describe on Reddit, the manufacturer doesn’t just settle for a friendly reminder.
Instead, specific games from one’s own collection are suggested. “Why not play these games you already own?” Nintendo asks in a message. As “JP Games” writes, fans in Germany also receive such messages.
Fans Feel Caught
Many players feel caught by Nintendo because of their “Pile of Shame,” but they react humorously and even admit that the stack of unplayed games has simply become too large. Some speculate that Nintendo might not want more money from them.
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Another has a trick to avoid being exposed by Nintendo: “That’s why I buy physical editions, Nintendo has no idea what a big problem I really have.” But there are also those for whom a “Pile of Shame” is a foreign concept. They simply buy a new one only when they’ve finished another.
The discussions about Nintendo’s “Pile of Shame” messages have a positive side. In the comments, fans exchange views on the recommended game suggested by the manufacturer. Others talk about their unplayed titles and receive recommendations on why they’re worth playing. However, why Nintendo sends these messages remains unknown.