Do Switch games updates save to the cartridge?

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The answer to this question is no, Switch games updates do not save to the cartridge, instead, they are saved on the Nintendo Switch console itself. This is because Switch cartridges are read-only, meaning that no data can be written to them, and all game updates and save data are stored on the console’s internal storage or microSD card.

Understanding Switch Game Updates and Storage

Introduction to Switch Storage

The Nintendo Switch uses a combination of internal storage and microSD cards to store game data, save files, and updates.

How Switch Games Updates Work

When a game update is available, the Switch console downloads and installs the update on its internal storage or microSD card, not on the game cartridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

1. Are Switch updates saved on the cartridge? No, Switch updates are saved on the Nintendo Switch console itself, not on the cartridge.
2. Do Switch games save data to the cartridge? No, all save data is saved on the internal storage of the Switch, not on the cartridge.
3. Is data stored in a Switch cartridge? No, game data is stored in the internal memory of the Switch, and cartridges are read-only.

Save Data and Cloud Saves

4. Will I lose my game progress if I get a new Switch? Yes, save data will be deleted on the source console, but you can transfer save data to the new console.
5. Does Switch cloud save game progress? Yes, if you’re connected to the internet, your save data will be backed up automatically to the cloud.
6. What Switch games don’t use cloud saves? Some games, such as 1-2-Switch, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and Pokémon, do not support cloud saves.

Digital Games and Cartridges

7. Are Switch cartridges just SD cards? No, Switch game cards use non-volatile flash memory technology, similar to SD cards, but are distinct from volatile game cartridges.
8. Can I get a digital copy of a game I already own on Switch? Yes, you can purchase and download a digital copy of a physical game you own, but the physical game does not give you rights to a free digital copy.
9. Do Switch games load faster on cartridge? No, internal memory is up to 5 seconds faster than cartridge, and microSD card is about the same speed as a cartridge.

Game Performance and Storage

10. Do Switch games run faster on SD card? Game cards and SD speeds are roughly the same, but internal storage is slightly faster overall.
11. Where are Switch game updates stored? All DLC and game updates are stored in the SD card or system memory, and game save data will only save on system memory.

Managing Your Games and Data

12. Do you have to have the same cartridge to continue a game on Nintendo Switch? No, all save data is stored on the console, so you can use a different cartridge or digital version of the game.
13. Will I lose save data if I change SD card on Switch? No, you won’t lose save data if you change your SD card, you can copy the content to a new SD card or hard drive.

Nintendo Switch and Digital Games

14. Are digital Switch games permanent? Yes, all digital games you buy are stored via your Nintendo Account ID, so you can redownload them as many times as you want.
15. Can you keep digital games forever? Yes, digital games are yours to keep as long as you have a valid Nintendo Account and the game is available on the Nintendo eShop.