Can You Start a New Game in Pokemon Sword Without Deleting? The Definitive Guide

The short answer is no, not on the same user profile. Pokémon Sword and Shield, like many Pokémon games, are designed to have only one save file per user profile on your Nintendo Switch. However, there is a workaround. You can create a new user profile on your Switch and start a fresh game on that profile without affecting your original save.

This article will explore the ins and outs of managing save data in Pokémon Sword and Shield, providing you with everything you need to know about starting over, creating multiple saves, and preserving your precious Pokémon. Whether you’re a seasoned trainer looking for a new challenge or a newcomer eager to experience the Galar region for the first time, this guide will help you navigate the world of Pokémon saves.

Understanding Save Data in Pokémon Sword and Shield

The Single Save File System

Unlike some games that allow for multiple save slots within a single profile, Pokémon Sword and Shield adhere to a single save file system. This means that your progress is continuously saved, and there isn’t an in-game option to manually create multiple saves. The game overwrites the existing save data as you progress.

Utilizing User Profiles on Nintendo Switch

The key to circumventing the single save file limitation lies in the Nintendo Switch’s user profile system. Each user profile on your Switch operates independently, with its own save data for each game. By creating a new user profile, you essentially create a separate environment where you can start a new game from scratch.

How to Start a New Game Without Deleting Your Existing Save

Here’s a step-by-step guide on starting a new Pokémon Sword or Shield adventure without losing your original progress:

1. Create a New User Profile: On your Nintendo Switch Home Menu, go to System Settings > Users > Add User. Follow the on-screen instructions to create a new user profile. You’ll need to choose an icon and a nickname.

2. Start Pokémon Sword or Shield on the New Profile: Select the newly created user profile from the Home Menu and launch Pokémon Sword or Shield. The game will recognize this as a new save and allow you to begin a new game.

3. Enjoy Your New Adventure: You can now play through Pokémon Sword or Shield from the beginning on this new profile without affecting your original save data on your primary profile.

Benefits of Multiple Profiles

• Multiple Playthroughs: Experience the game with different starter Pokémon, team compositions, and strategies.
• Sharing with Family: Each family member can have their own dedicated save file, preventing accidental overwrites.
• Experimentation: Try out new strategies and team builds without risking your primary save.
• Reliving the Magic: Re-experience the excitement of starting your Pokémon journey all over again.

Things to Consider Before Deleting or Starting Anew

Trading Pokémon Between Saves

While you can have multiple saves, trading Pokémon between them on the same Switch can be a little tricky. You’ll need to use the Pokémon HOME service, a cloud-based storage system for your Pokémon.

1. Transfer Pokémon to Pokémon HOME: On your primary save file, transfer the Pokémon you want to keep to your Pokémon HOME account.

2. Access Pokémon HOME on the New Profile: On your new user profile, access Pokémon HOME. Since it’s linked to your Nintendo account, you’ll see the Pokémon you transferred.

3. Transfer Pokémon to the New Save: Move the desired Pokémon from Pokémon HOME to your new save file in Pokémon Sword or Shield.

DLC and Expansion Passes

Downloaded content, such as the Expansion Pass (Isle of Armor and Crown Tundra), is typically linked to your Nintendo Account and is available across all user profiles on your Switch. This means that even if you start a new game on a different profile, you’ll still have access to the DLC content.

The Consequences of Deleting Save Data

Deleting your save data is a permanent action. Once deleted, your progress, Pokémon, and items are gone for good. Therefore, be absolutely certain that you want to delete your save file before proceeding. Consider backing up important Pokémon to Pokémon HOME first.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I have multiple saves on a single Pokémon Sword cartridge?

No, you cannot have multiple saves on a single Pokémon Sword or Shield game card. The save data is tied to the user profile on the Nintendo Switch.

2. How do I delete my save data in Pokémon Sword?

To delete your save data, go to System Settings > Data Management > Delete Save Data. Select Pokémon Sword or Shield and the user profile you wish to reset. Confirm your decision to delete the save.

3. Will deleting my save file delete the DLC content I purchased?

No, deleting your save file will not delete the DLC content. DLC is typically tied to your Nintendo Account and can be accessed on all profiles.

4. Is it possible to get a shiny starter Pokémon in Sword and Shield?

Generally, the starter Pokémon are “shiny locked” in Pokémon Sword and Shield, meaning they cannot be shiny through normal gameplay. This means that no matter how many times you reset your game, the starter Pokemon will not be Shiny.

5. Can I trade Pokémon between my different save files on the same Switch?

Yes, you can trade Pokémon between your save files using Pokémon HOME. You can also use a second Nintendo Switch console to trade Pokemon between two save files, if you have one.

6. What is the best starter Pokémon in Sword and Shield?

The “best” starter depends on your playstyle. Grookey has an easier early game, while Scorbunny excels in the late game. Sobble, with its final evolution Inteleon, can also be a strong choice.

7. Can I use the same Nintendo Account for multiple Pokémon HOME accounts?

No, each Pokémon HOME account can only be linked to one Nintendo Account at a time.

8. How many user profiles can I have on my Nintendo Switch?

You can have up to eight user profiles on a single Nintendo Switch console.

9. Will I lose access to Mystery Gifts if I delete my save file?

Mystery Gifts are generally tied to the save file. If you delete your save, you will lose access to any unclaimed Mystery Gifts. Make sure to claim them before deleting your save.

10. Is it against the Terms of Service to have multiple user profiles for Pokémon games?

No, creating multiple user profiles on your Nintendo Switch is perfectly acceptable and does not violate the Terms of Service. It’s a legitimate way to have multiple saves.

11. How do I back up my Pokémon Sword save data?

Pokémon Sword and Shield do not support manual save backups. The only way to “back up” your Pokémon is to transfer them to Pokémon HOME.

12. Can I restart the game without deleting my save data if I want to try a different starter?

You can restart the game without deleting your save data if you create another profile on the nintendo switch. Otherwise, no, unless you create a new user profile on your Switch.

13. What happens to my online progress (e.g., ranked battles) if I delete my save file?

Your online progress will be reset when you delete your save file.

14. Can I transfer items between different save files?

No, there is no direct way to transfer items between save files. You can only transfer Pokémon.

15. Is there a way to have multiple save files on the same profile using a cheat or exploit?

We do not recommend using cheats or exploits to create multiple save files, as this could potentially corrupt your save data or violate the game’s Terms of Service. It’s best to stick to legitimate methods, such as creating multiple user profiles.

Conclusion

While Pokémon Sword and Shield only allow for one save file per user profile, the Nintendo Switch’s system offers a simple solution: create a new user profile. This allows you to embark on multiple adventures, try different strategies, and share the game with others without losing your original progress. By understanding the limitations and utilizing the available tools, you can fully enjoy the world of Pokémon Sword and Shield. Remember to always consider the consequences before deleting any save data and explore the benefits of Pokémon HOME for safeguarding your valuable Pokémon. And as always, keep exploring the wonderful world of gaming and its potential for learning and growth. Consider visiting the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more about how games contribute to education and development.