Can You Transfer Purchased Games from Switch to Switch? A Comprehensive Guide

Yes, you can transfer purchased games from one Nintendo Switch to another. Nintendo offers several methods to facilitate this process, but understanding the nuances of each is crucial to avoid potential data loss or complications. This article delves into the intricacies of game transfers on the Nintendo Switch, providing a detailed guide and addressing frequently asked questions to ensure a smooth and successful transition.

Understanding Nintendo Switch Game Transfers

Transferring games on the Nintendo Switch isn’t as straightforward as simply copying files. It involves associating your Nintendo Account with the new console and potentially transferring save data separately. The process you choose depends on whether you’re permanently moving your Nintendo Account to a new Switch or just wanting to play your games on a second console.

Key Methods for Transferring Games

There are two primary methods for transferring your games and data:

1. Transfer User Data: This method moves your entire Nintendo Account, including your eShop purchases, save data (if not using cloud saves), and user profile, to a new console. This is the recommended method when you are replacing your old Switch.

2. Download Games on Multiple Consoles: You can access your purchased games on multiple Switch consoles, but only one can be designated as your primary console. The primary console allows anyone to play your downloaded games, even without an internet connection. Secondary consoles require an active internet connection to verify your purchase each time you launch a game.

Step-by-Step Guide to Transferring User Data

This process is best used when you’re upgrading to a new Nintendo Switch and want to move everything over. Ensure both your old and new consoles are connected to the internet and that you have your Nintendo Account login information handy.

Initiating the Transfer on the Source Console (Old Switch)

1. Ensure System Update: Make sure both consoles have the latest system update.
2. Power On and Sign In: Turn on your old Nintendo Switch and sign in to the Nintendo Account you want to transfer.
3. Navigate to Settings: Go to System Settings from the HOME Menu.
4. Select Users: Choose “Users” then select your profile.
5. Initiate Transfer: Select “Transfer Your User Data.” Follow the on-screen instructions. You’ll be prompted to verify your account.
6. Prepare for Transfer: Select “Next” until you reach the “Source Console” screen.

Receiving the Transfer on the Target Console (New Switch)

1. Power On and Initial Setup: Turn on your new Nintendo Switch and proceed through the initial setup.
2. Link Nintendo Account: When prompted, sign in to the Nintendo Account you’re transferring from the old console.
3. Select Transfer User: Choose “Transfer Your User Data.”
4. Target Console: Select “Target Console” on the screen.
5. Wait for Connection: The new Switch will search for the old Switch. Ensure both consoles are near each other during the transfer.
6. Transfer Confirmation: Once connected, both consoles will display a confirmation message. Confirm the transfer on both devices.
7. Data Transfer: The data transfer process will begin. This may take some time depending on the amount of data being transferred.
8. Completion: Once the transfer is complete, follow the on-screen instructions to restart both consoles. Your Nintendo Account and downloaded games will now be on your new Switch.

Understanding Primary and Secondary Consoles

Using the same Nintendo Account on multiple Switch consoles allows you to play your purchased games on each. However, Nintendo differentiates between your primary console and any other consoles using your account.

Setting Your Primary Console

The first Nintendo Switch you use to access the eShop with your Nintendo Account is automatically designated as your primary console. This allows any user on that console to play your downloaded games, even without an internet connection.

Playing Games on a Secondary Console

If you want to play your purchased games on a second Switch (your secondary console), you’ll need an active internet connection. The Switch will periodically verify your account and game licenses. Only the user associated with the Nintendo Account that purchased the game can play it on the secondary console.

Important Considerations

• Nintendo Switch Online: A Nintendo Switch Online membership is required to utilize cloud saves for many games. This ensures your save data is backed up and can be easily restored on a new console, even without a full user transfer.
• Game Cards: Physical game cards do not require any transfer. Simply insert the game card into the new Switch and start playing. However, save data for physical games is stored on the console, so transferring user data or using cloud saves is still important.
• Digital Games Only: This guide primarily focuses on transferring digitally purchased games from the Nintendo eShop.
• Account Security: Always protect your Nintendo Account with a strong password and enable two-factor authentication for added security.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I transfer my save data without Nintendo Switch Online?

Yes, you can transfer save data without Nintendo Switch Online by using the Transfer User Data feature. This moves your entire user profile, including save data, to the new console. However, this method is only viable if you are replacing your old Switch and no longer need the transferred user profile on the original device.

2. How do I download games after transferring my account?

After transferring your Nintendo Account, go to the eShop on your new Switch. Click on your user icon in the top right corner, then select “Redownload.” You’ll see a list of all your purchased games, which you can download individually.

3. Can I transfer individual games instead of the entire user profile?

No, Nintendo does not offer a direct way to transfer individual games. The primary methods involve transferring the entire user profile or redownloading games from the eShop on a console associated with your Nintendo Account.

4. What happens to my games on the old Switch after transferring?

After transferring your Nintendo Account, the old Switch will be deregistered as your primary console. The games will still be present on the old Switch but will be inaccessible without re-linking a Nintendo Account that owns the games.

5. Can I play the same digital game simultaneously on two Switches?

No, you cannot play the same digital game simultaneously on two Switches using the same Nintendo Account. If one console is playing a game and the other tries to launch it, the first console will be interrupted.

6. What if I don’t have access to my old Switch?

If you no longer have access to your old Switch, you can deregister it as your primary console through the Nintendo Account website. This allows you to designate a new Switch as your primary console. You can only deregister your primary console this way once a year.

7. How do I deregister my primary console?

Log in to your Nintendo Account on the Nintendo website. Go to “Shop Menu” then “Primary Console.” From there, you can deregister your primary console.

8. Are there any games that cannot be transferred?

Some games may have restrictions on save data transfer, typically due to online features or specific developer implementations. Consult the game’s documentation or the Nintendo support website for details.

9. Will my DLC transfer with my games?

Yes, any DLC (Downloadable Content) purchased with your Nintendo Account will also be available for download on your new Switch after you’ve transferred your account or redownloaded the base game.

10. What if the transfer process is interrupted?

If the transfer process is interrupted, restart both consoles and try again. Ensure both consoles have a stable internet connection and are close to each other.

11. How long does the transfer process take?

The transfer process duration depends on the amount of data being transferred. Smaller transfers might take a few minutes, while larger transfers can take an hour or more.

12. Can I transfer my Nintendo Account to a Switch Lite?

Yes, the process for transferring your Nintendo Account to a Switch Lite is the same as transferring to a regular Nintendo Switch.

13. What happens to my save data if I sell my old Switch without transferring my account?

If you sell your old Switch without transferring your Nintendo Account or erasing the data, the buyer will have access to your account and save data. It is crucial to deregister your Nintendo Account and format the console before selling it.

14. How do I format my Nintendo Switch before selling it?

Go to System Settings > System > Formatting Options > Initialize Console. This will erase all data from the Switch and restore it to its factory settings.

15. Can I back up my save data to an external storage device?

No, Nintendo does not allow direct backups of save data to external storage devices. The primary methods for backing up save data are using Nintendo Switch Online cloud saves or transferring the entire user profile.

By understanding these methods and considerations, you can ensure a smooth and successful transfer of your purchased games and data between Nintendo Switch consoles. Remember to prioritize account security and always back up your save data to avoid any potential data loss.