Is It Possible to Reset an Amiibo? Your Ultimate Guide

The short answer is yes, it is possible to reset an amiibo, but there are caveats. When you reset an amiibo, you are essentially deleting the data that has been written to it by specific games. This clears the slate and allows you to use the amiibo with new games, or start fresh in games you’ve already used it with. However, it’s crucial to understand exactly what you’re deleting and the potential consequences before you proceed.

Understanding Amiibo Data

Before diving into the reset process, it’s important to understand what kind of data an amiibo stores. Amiibos, at their core, are figures equipped with an Near Field Communication (NFC) chip. This chip stores data that can be read and written to by compatible Nintendo consoles, primarily the Nintendo Switch, Wii U, and Nintendo 3DS family of systems.

This data typically falls into two categories:

• Game Data: This is information specific to a particular game. It might include character levels, unlocked items, custom gear, or training progress for a Figure Player (FP) in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. This type of data varies significantly between games.
• User/Nickname Data: This includes the owner’s nickname for the amiibo, or the character’s name and the Mii associated with the amiibo. This information is generally consistent across different games and consoles.

How to Reset an Amiibo

The process for resetting an amiibo is straightforward, but it’s essential to follow the steps carefully to avoid any unintended consequences. Here’s how to do it on a Nintendo Switch:

1. From the HOME Menu select System Settings. This is the starting point for all amiibo management tasks.
2. Scroll down the menu on the left-hand side and select amiibo. This will open the amiibo settings menu.
3. Select the data you would like to delete. At this point you can either delete game data or reset the entire amiibo.
4. To delete game data only, select Delete Game Data. To delete all data on the amiibo, select Reset amiibo. Choose the option that best suits your needs. Be aware that resetting an amiibo deletes everything, including nickname data.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions. The system will prompt you to tap the amiibo to the NFC touchpoint on your controller (usually the right Joy-Con stick or the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller’s center).
6. Confirm the deletion. You’ll be asked to confirm your decision before the data is erased.

Important Considerations Before Resetting

• Irreversible Action: Resetting an amiibo is a permanent action. Once the data is deleted, it cannot be recovered. Therefore, make sure you truly want to erase everything before proceeding.
• Nickname Loss: If you have customized your amiibo with a unique nickname, be aware that this information will be lost when you perform a full reset.
• Game-Specific Implications: Understand the implications of deleting game data for the specific game in question. For example, deleting the training data from a Super Smash Bros. Ultimate amiibo will remove all the custom stats, move sets and personality you gave to your amiibo character.

FAQs: All You Need to Know About Amiibo Resetting and More

Here are some frequently asked questions about amiibo, covering everything from resetting to general usage and legality:

1. What happens if you Reset amiibo?

Resetting an amiibo data will delete both game data and user/nickname data. If you don’t want to lose the user/nickname data, then you may want to delete game data only.

2. Can you rewrite an amiibo after its data has been used?

While you can reset and reuse an amiibo, you cannot completely rewrite its underlying code or turn it into a completely different amiibo. Once an amiibo’s NFC chip has been written to, it functions like an original Nintendo amiibo. It cannot be converted into something it was not initially designed to be.

3. How do I remove an owner from my amiibo?

On the Wii U, go to System Settings > amiibo Settings > Register Owner and Nickname. Place the amiibo on the GamePad’s NFC reader, and select the option to change the owner. Save the changes.

4. Can I use someone else’s amiibo on my game?

Yes, you can use someone else’s amiibo on your game, especially for functionalities that don’t save data to the figure. For example, using an amiibo to unlock a Mii Racing Suit in Mario Kart 8 can be done across multiple games because the data isn’t saved to the amiibo itself.

5. Is it legal to spoof amiibo, like making copies of the data?

The legality of amiibo spoofing is a grey area. Creating a backup of your own amiibo data is likely permissible, but distributing or selling copies of amiibo data without Nintendo’s authorization is likely a copyright infringement.

6. Is it illegal to copy Amiibos or use fake Amiibo cards?

Selling prefabricated amiibo Bootleg is very illegal and can fall under piracy and/or copyright infringement. Fake amiibos are not generally considered dangerous for the console.

7. Can you erase an NFC tag entirely, returning it to its original state?

The purpose of erasing an NFC tag is to reset its contents and allow you to write new data on it. This provides you with endless possibilities for customization and productivity.

8. Why are some amiibo so rare?

Some amiibo are rare due to limited production runs, exclusive releases, or even defects that make them collectible. While some rare amiibo might get re-released eventually, others, especially those tied to specific anniversary or special events, might not.

9. Can amiibo stop working altogether?

Yes, amiibo can stop working. If you suspect an amiibo is malfunctioning, try testing it on different consoles or controllers. If it consistently fails to scan, the amiibo may be defective and need to be replaced.

10. How do I fix a corrupted amiibo?

If you receive an error indicating a corrupted amiibo, the system may prompt you to restore the data. Follow the on-screen instructions to attempt a data restoration process.

11. What is a spoofed amiibo, and is it safe to use?

A spoofed amiibo is essentially a custom NFC tag programmed with amiibo data. Since the Nintendo Switch doesn’t verify the authenticity of the amiibo beyond the NFC data, using a spoofed amiibo is generally considered safe and not grounds for a console ban.

12. Can you water damage amiibo? Are they waterproof?

Amiibos are not waterproof. Water damage can potentially ruin the NFC chip inside the base of the amiibo, rendering it unusable.

13. Can a magnet erase an NFC tag?

No, a magnet will not erase an NFC tag. NFC technology relies on alternating magnetic fields at a very high frequency. A static magnet does not interfere with this process.

14. How long do NFC tags, like those in amiibo, last?

NFC tags are designed to be durable. They typically have a lifespan of 10 years or more, provided they are not physically damaged.

15. Can you unlock an NFC tag to prevent further writing?

Yes, NFC tags can be locked to prevent further writing, but this action is typically irreversible. Once locked, the tag becomes read-only.

Learning More About Games and Technology

Interested in delving deeper into the world of games, technology, and education? Check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. This organization explores the potential of games as powerful learning tools and promotes research and innovation in the field of game-based education.

Conclusion

Resetting an amiibo is a simple process, but it requires careful consideration. By understanding what data is stored on the amiibo and the implications of deleting it, you can make informed decisions and continue to enjoy the benefits of these interactive figures. Whether you’re starting fresh in a new game or passing an amiibo on to a friend, knowing how to reset it properly is a valuable skill for any Nintendo enthusiast. And always be cautious and informed when considering alternative methods like amiibo spoofing, keeping in mind potential legal and ethical implications.