So You’re Getting a New Switch: What Happens Now?

Congratulations on your upcoming new Nintendo Switch! Whether you’re upgrading to the gorgeous OLED model, replacing an older console, or simply adding to your Switch family, understanding the transfer process is crucial. So, what happens when you get a new Switch? In short, you need to carefully transfer your user accounts, game data, and digital purchases from your old console to the new one. The specific steps involved depend on your situation, but fear not! This guide will walk you through everything, ensuring a smooth transition to your shiny new gaming paradise.

The Essentials: Transferring Your Data

The core process revolves around moving your Nintendo Account, user profiles, save data, and digital games. Nintendo provides tools and methods to achieve this, but it’s essential to understand the nuances.

User and Save Data Transfer

Nintendo allows for a direct transfer of user and save data between consoles. This method is ideal if you still have access to your old Switch and it’s functioning correctly. Here’s the general process:

1. Update both consoles: Ensure both your old and new Switch have the latest system software.
2. Initiate the transfer: On both consoles, go to System Settings > Users > Transfer Your User and Save Data.
3. Follow the on-screen prompts: One Switch will be designated as the “source” console (the one transferring data) and the other as the “target” console (the one receiving data).
4. Account verification: You’ll need to sign in to your Nintendo Account on both consoles.
5. Proximity is key: Place the consoles near each other during the transfer process.
6. Patience is a virtue: The transfer time will vary depending on the amount of data being moved.

Nintendo Account and Digital Games

Your Nintendo Account is the key to accessing your digital games. You can link your account to multiple consoles, but only one can be designated as the primary console.

• Primary Console: This is the console where anyone can play your downloaded games, even without being signed in to your Nintendo Account.
• Non-Primary Console: On a non-primary console, only you can play your downloaded games, and you must be signed in to your Nintendo Account.

If you no longer have access to your original Switch, you can still transfer your Nintendo Account and digital games. You’ll need to deactivate the old console as your primary console through the Nintendo website or by contacting Nintendo Support. This will allow you to designate your new Switch as the primary console.

Special Cases: Animal Crossing and Pokémon

Certain games require special attention when transferring to a new Switch.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Animal Crossing: New Horizons uses a unique island transfer process. You’ll need the Island Transfer Tool app, available on the Nintendo eShop.

1. Update the game: Ensure Animal Crossing: New Horizons is updated to the latest version on both consoles.
2. Download the tool: Download the Island Transfer Tool on both consoles.
3. Follow the instructions: The tool will guide you through the steps to transfer your island data.
4. User data transfer: In some cases, you might need to transfer User Data separately for a seamless transition.

Pokémon Games

For Pokémon games, the transfer process depends on the specific game and how you manage your Pokémon.

• Pokémon HOME: This cloud-based service is crucial for moving Pokémon between different games and consoles. Link your Pokémon HOME account to your Nintendo Account on both consoles.
• Save Data: Most Pokémon game save data is stored on the console itself. Follow the standard user and save data transfer process.
• Game-Specific Transfers: Some Pokémon games might have their own in-game transfer mechanisms. Consult the specific game’s documentation for details.

What About MicroSD Cards?

You can use a microSD card to expand the storage on your Nintendo Switch. However, using the same card on multiple consoles requires some planning.

• Single Card Transfer: You can move a microSD card from one Switch to another, but all the data on the card will be deleted. The card will be reformatted for the new console.
• Multiple Cards: If you want to keep the data on your microSD card, consider using a separate card for each console or backing up the data to a computer before transferring it.
• Save Data Location: Remember that game save data is stored on the console’s internal memory, not on the microSD card. Therefore, transferring the microSD will not move your game progress.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I keep my games if I get a new Switch?

Yes! Your digital games are tied to your Nintendo Account, so you can redownload them on your new Switch after transferring your account or designating the new console as your primary console.

2. Will I lose my Pokémon if I get a new Switch?

No, but you need to be careful. Use Pokémon HOME to transfer your Pokémon between games and consoles. Ensure your Pokémon HOME account is linked to your Nintendo Account.

3. Can I exchange my old Switch for a new one?

Yes, many retailers offer trade-in programs for old consoles, allowing you to put the value towards a new purchase. Check with local game stores or online retailers.

4. How do I transfer my Nintendo Switch to a new Switch?

Use the User and Save Data Transfer feature in the System Settings. Follow the on-screen prompts on both consoles to initiate and complete the transfer.

5. Can I have 2 Switches on one account?

Yes, you can link your Nintendo Account to multiple consoles, but only one can be your primary console. This determines how and when you can play your downloaded games.

6. How do I transfer an island from an old Switch to a new Switch in Animal Crossing: New Horizons?

Use the Island Transfer Tool app, available on the Nintendo eShop. This tool is specifically designed for transferring your island data.

7. Does Nintendo do replacements if my Switch is broken?

If your Switch is under warranty, Nintendo may repair or replace it if it’s defective. Out-of-warranty repairs are also available, but they will incur a fee. Sometimes a “Factory Certified System” is used as a replacement which is a refurbished product.

8. Can I use my old memory card for new Switch?

Yes, but only if you’re willing to delete all the data on it. The microSD card will be reformatted for the new console.

9. Is Switch OLED worth it if I already have the original?

The Nintendo Switch OLED offers several improvements, including a better screen, enhanced audio, and more internal storage. If these features appeal to you, it might be worth the upgrade, especially if you play primarily in handheld mode.

10. Will I lose everything if I take a game out of my Switch?

No, you will not lose anything. Game save data is stored on the console’s internal memory, not on the game card.

11. Will I lose my games if I reset my Switch?

Potentially. A factory reset erases the console’s data, but you can redownload any games that you’ve purchased using your Nintendo Account. Make sure to backup any critical data before resetting.

12. Can you play the same Pokémon game on another Switch?

Yes, you can redownload and play your purchased games on any Switch linked to your Nintendo Account. However, you may need to transfer save data separately.

13. Do I have to buy Switch games twice?

No! Purchases made on a Nintendo Account can be redownloaded and played on any Nintendo Switch console it is linked to.

14. What is the max memory card for Nintendo Switch?

The Nintendo Switch supports microSD cards up to 2TB in size, although 1TB cards are more readily available at the moment.

15. Where is Switch save data stored?

Game save data is stored on the console’s System Memory. This cannot be saved or copied to a microSD card.

Final Thoughts

Getting a new Nintendo Switch should be an exciting experience, not a stressful one. By understanding the data transfer process and utilizing the tools Nintendo provides, you can ensure a smooth transition and continue enjoying your favorite games on your new console. Remember to back up your data whenever possible, and don’t hesitate to contact Nintendo Support if you encounter any issues. And while you’re enjoying your new console, consider the impact of video games on society, and perhaps even explore the research being done by organizations like the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. Happy gaming!