What does it even mean to “own” a video game?

[Conina]

Chrkeller said:

firebush03 said:

Eh… but it’s not like Nintendo doesn’t allow you to redownload previously purchased digital games unless you purchase a Switch.

Honestly I have no idea.  I mean could I redownload stuff on a 3DS?  fair and kudos to Nintendo, I don't know how that works.  When I return old consoles, I just emulate what I lost.  

If I remember correctly, digital 3DS games are bound to the hardware, not to the eShop account.

So if my 3DS dies, I can't just buy a used 3DS, log into my account and redownload my games.