How to Remove a Nintendo Switch User Without Deleting It: A Comprehensive Guide

The Nintendo Switch, a marvel of hybrid console technology, has become a staple in many households. Its versatility allows multiple users to enjoy a vast library of games. However, the time may come when you need to remove a user from your Switch without completely deleting their profile and save data. Unfortunately, the Nintendo Switch system doesn’t allow you to remove a user in the traditional sense – meaning disconnecting them from the console while preserving their account on the cloud. To effectively “remove” a user while preserving their account, you would need to delete the user from the console. Note that this will delete all local save data. This is a crucial distinction to understand, as it directly impacts how you manage user profiles on your Nintendo Switch.

Understanding User Management on the Nintendo Switch

Before we dive into the process, let’s clarify some fundamental aspects of user management on the Nintendo Switch. Each user profile on the console can be linked to a Nintendo Account. This account is essential for accessing online services, the Nintendo eShop, and other online features. When you delete a user from the console, you’re essentially removing their profile and its associated local save data from that specific device. The Nintendo Account itself remains intact, along with any digital purchases tied to it.

What Happens When You Delete a User?

Here’s a breakdown of the consequences of deleting a user on your Nintendo Switch:

• Local Save Data is Erased: This is the most significant consequence. All save files associated with that user’s profile on that console will be deleted. There is no way to recover this data unless you have a Nintendo Switch Online subscription and save data cloud backups enabled.
• Digital Games Become Unplayable (Potentially): If the deleted user purchased digital games, those games will become unplayable for other users on the console unless the console is designated as the primary console for the Nintendo Account that purchased the games.
• Physical Games Remain Playable: Physical game cartridges will still function normally, but any downloaded DLC (Downloadable Content) associated with the deleted user may become unusable. This can also affect existing save data, which relied on the DLC.
• Nintendo Account Remains Active: The Nintendo Account linked to the deleted user profile is not deleted. The user can still access the Nintendo Account on other devices or link it to a new user profile on another Nintendo Switch console.

Steps to “Remove” a User (Delete a User)

Since there is no actual feature to “remove a user” from the console, the only way to disconnect it is by deleting the user.

1. Access System Settings: From the Nintendo Switch HOME Menu, select “System Settings”.
2. Navigate to User Settings: Scroll down and select “Users”.
3. Choose the User to Delete: Select the user profile you wish to remove.
4. Scroll Down and Select “Delete User”: On the user’s profile page, scroll down to the bottom and select “Delete User”.
5. Confirm the Deletion: A warning message will appear, reminding you that all save data associated with the user will be lost. Select “Delete” again to confirm. You may be required to enter your Parental Controls PIN to proceed.

Important Considerations Before Deleting

• Back Up Save Data (If Possible): If you have a Nintendo Switch Online subscription, ensure that save data cloud backups are enabled for the user profile you’re about to delete. This will allow you to restore the save data on another console linked to the same Nintendo Account.
• Primary Console Designation: If the user you’re deleting is the owner of the primary console, consider transferring that designation to another user before deleting. This will ensure that other users on the console can continue to play digital games purchased by the owner of the Nintendo Account.
• Communicate with the User: If you’re deleting a user profile that belongs to someone else (e.g., a family member), make sure to communicate with them beforehand. Ensure they understand the consequences of deleting the profile and that their save data will be lost (unless backed up).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I restore a deleted user profile on my Nintendo Switch?

Within 30 days of deleting your Nintendo Account you can reactivate it, however, there is no known way to restore a deleted user profile on the Switch without recovering the Nintendo Account. Once the 30-day time frame has passed, the account will be permanently deleted and cannot be restored.

2. Will deleting a user also delete their Nintendo Account?

No, deleting a user profile on the Nintendo Switch does not delete the associated Nintendo Account. The account remains active and can be used on other devices or linked to a new user profile on another Nintendo Switch console.

3. What happens to digital games purchased by the deleted user?

If the console is designated as the primary console for the Nintendo Account that purchased the games, other users on the console will still be able to play them. If not, the games will become unplayable for other users.

4. Can I transfer save data from a deleted user profile to another user profile?

Unfortunately, no. The only way to transfer save data is through save data cloud backups (with a Nintendo Switch Online subscription) or by using a third-party save data management tool (which may void your warranty).

5. How do I designate a primary console for my Nintendo Account?

Simply access the Nintendo eShop on the console you want to designate as the primary console using your Nintendo Account. The system will automatically be set as the primary console. You can verify this in your Nintendo eShop Account Information.

6. Can I have multiple Nintendo Accounts on one Nintendo Switch console?

Yes, you can link up to eight Nintendo Accounts to a single Nintendo Switch console.

7. Can two Nintendo Switch consoles share the same Nintendo Account?

Yes, you can link your Nintendo Account to multiple consoles. However, only one console can be designated as the primary console.

8. What is the difference between a Nintendo Account and a user profile on the Switch?

A user profile is a local account on the Nintendo Switch console, allowing you to save game progress and customize settings. A Nintendo Account is an online account used for accessing online services, the Nintendo eShop, and other online features. A user profile can be linked to a Nintendo Account.

9. Can I track a stolen Nintendo Switch?

While Nintendo doesn’t offer built-in tracking features, you can use a Bluetooth tracking device to help locate a lost or stolen Nintendo Switch.

10. Do I need a Nintendo Account to play games on the Nintendo Switch?

You need a user profile to play games on the Nintendo Switch. However, a Nintendo Account is only required for accessing online features, such as online multiplayer and the Nintendo eShop.

11. Can I use someone else’s Nintendo Switch game?

Yes, anyone that uses your primary Nintendo Switch console will be able to play games you’ve purchased with your Nintendo Account.

12. How do I delete save data for a specific game on my Nintendo Switch?

From the HOME Menu, select “System Settings”. Scroll down and select “Data Management”, then “Delete Save Data”. Select the game title and the user for which you want to delete the save data.

13. Can two Nintendo Accounts on the same Switch share a Nintendo Switch Online membership?

Yes, players using a family membership can access the Nintendo Switch Online service via the same Nintendo Switch system or multiple systems.

14. How many times can I change my primary Switch console?

You can deregister one console and register another as your primary console as needed.

15. Where can I learn more about game-based learning and its applications in education?

You can explore the resources and research available at the Games Learning Society website. GamesLearningSociety.org is a great place to start.

Conclusion

While the inability to truly “remove” a user without deleting their local save data may seem limiting, understanding the intricacies of Nintendo Account management and primary console designation allows you to effectively manage user profiles on your Nintendo Switch. Always remember to back up your save data, communicate with other users, and carefully consider the consequences before deleting a user profile. By following the steps and advice outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free user management experience on your Nintendo Switch.