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Do Physical Switch Games Take Up Memory? Unraveling the Cartridge Conundrum

Yes, even though physical Nintendo Switch games come on cartridges, they do take up memory on your Nintendo Switch console. While the bulk of the game data resides on the cartridge itself, certain game data such as game updates, downloadable content (DLC), save data, and installation data for certain games are stored on the Switch’s internal memory or a microSD card. Let’s dive deeper into the why and how of this fascinating phenomenon.

Why Cartridges Aren’t Entirely Self-Contained

You might think popping a cartridge into your Switch would mean everything you need is right there, no downloads required. That’s the ideal, but modern gaming is a constantly evolving landscape.

Updates are unavoidable: Games are often patched to fix bugs, improve performance, or add new features. These updates need to be stored somewhere, and that somewhere is your Switch’s memory.
DLC adds significant content: Think of the massive expansions available for games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild or Xenoblade Chronicles 2. This content, by its nature, isn’t on the cartridge.
Save data is essential: Your progress, character builds, and high scores need to be saved somewhere. The cartridge is read-only, so save data gets stored on the console.
Some games require partial installation: Certain titles, particularly those with larger file sizes, may require a portion of the game to be installed onto the console, even when using a physical cartridge. This is done to improve loading times and overall performance.

Understanding Memory Usage: Internal vs. External

The Nintendo Switch and Switch Lite have 32GB of internal storage, while the Nintendo Switch OLED model has 64GB. However, a portion of this is reserved for the system software, leaving you with less usable space. This is where microSD cards come in handy.

Internal Storage: This is where save data, game updates, and downloaded games reside by default. It fills up quickly, especially if you also download digital games.
microSD Card: This is your expandable storage solution. You can insert a microSD card to significantly increase the amount of games, updates, and DLC you can store on your Switch.

It’s crucial to manage your storage effectively. Regularly check how much space is available and consider archiving or deleting games you no longer play to free up space. Archiving a game removes it from the system but keeps the icon on the home screen, allowing you to redownload it later if needed. Deleting a game completely removes it and its associated data (except save data, which can be backed up).

Managing Your Storage: Tips and Tricks

Running out of storage space on your Nintendo Switch can be a frustrating experience. Thankfully, there are several things you can do to manage and optimize your storage and prevent that dreaded notification from popping up during an intense gaming session.

Invest in a High-Capacity microSD Card: This is the most straightforward solution. Opt for a reputable brand and a card with a decent read/write speed to ensure smooth performance. 128GB or 256GB cards are great starting points, but if you plan on downloading a lot of games, consider a 512GB or even a 1TB card.
Regularly Check Storage Usage: Go to System Settings > Data Management to see what’s taking up the most space. This will help you identify games or apps that you can archive or delete.
Archive Games You’re Not Playing: Archiving removes the game data from your Switch but keeps the game icon on your home screen. When you want to play it again, you can simply redownload it from the eShop. This is a great way to free up space without permanently deleting your games.
Back Up Save Data: Enable cloud saves for Nintendo Switch Online members to ensure your progress is safe. Alternatively, back up your save data to a microSD card.
Consider Physical Games: As we’ve discussed, physical games still take up some space for updates and save data, but they generally consume less storage than digital downloads. If you’re tight on space, opt for physical copies whenever possible.
Clear Cache Regularly: Over time, your Switch accumulates cache data, which can take up valuable storage space. Clear the cache periodically by going to System Settings > System > Formatting Options > Clear Cache.
Manage Download Settings: Configure your download settings to prioritize downloads to your microSD card if you have one installed. This will ensure that new downloads automatically go to the card, rather than filling up your internal storage.

The Games Learning Society explores how video games can enhance education. Consider exploring their resources on how game design and mechanics can be applied to various learning environments at GamesLearningSociety.org.

FAQs: All About Switch Game Memory

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify how physical and digital games interact with your Nintendo Switch’s memory.

1. How much internal storage does the Nintendo Switch have?

The original Nintendo Switch and the Switch Lite have 32GB of internal storage, while the Switch OLED model has 64GB. However, the system software uses a portion of this, leaving less usable space.

2. Does save data for physical games get stored on the cartridge?

No, save data is always stored on the console’s internal storage or on a microSD card. Cartridges are read-only and cannot store save data.

3. Can I transfer game data between internal storage and a microSD card?

Yes, you can transfer downloadable content (DLC) and downloaded games between the internal storage and a microSD card. However, save data cannot be transferred manually.

4. What happens if I run out of space on my microSD card?

You’ll need to either delete or archive games to free up space, or upgrade to a larger microSD card.

5. How do I check how much storage I have left on my Switch?

Go to System Settings > Data Management to view your storage usage.

6. What is the maximum size microSD card the Switch supports?

The Nintendo Switch supports microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards. It can theoretically support cards up to 2TB, but those are not widely available or necessary. 512GB or 1TB cards are generally sufficient.

7. Do I need a special type of microSD card for the Switch?

It is recommended to use a UHS-I (Ultra High Speed Phase I) microSD card with a transfer speed of at least 60-95MB/s for optimal performance.

8. Can I use multiple microSD cards with my Switch?

No, the Switch only has one microSD card slot, so you can only use one card at a time.

9. Will deleting a game delete my save data?

No, deleting a game will not delete your save data, unless you choose to delete the save data separately. It is recommended to always back up your save data.

10. Does the Switch automatically download updates for physical games?

Yes, if your Switch is connected to the internet, it will automatically download and install updates for your physical games.

11. How do I disable automatic updates?

You can disable automatic updates in the System Settings under Internet > Internet Settings, but it’s generally recommended to keep them enabled to ensure you have the latest version of the game.

12. Are digital games stored on the cartridge?

No, digital games are downloaded directly to the console’s internal storage or to a microSD card. They are not stored on the cartridge.

13. If I buy a game physically and then digitally, will I have two copies installed?

Yes, if you purchase both a physical and digital copy of the same game, they will both be installed on your system, taking up space for the base game twice, even though save data will likely be shared between both versions.

14. What does “archiving” a game do?

Archiving a game removes the game data from your system but keeps the icon on the home screen. You can redownload the game later from the eShop. This is useful for freeing up space temporarily.

15. Where can I learn more about the educational applications of gaming?

Visit the Games Learning Society website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ to explore how games can be used to enhance learning and development.

Do physical Switch games take up memory?