Will Deleting a Game on My Switch Delete My Progress?

The short answer is: No, deleting a game on your Nintendo Switch will not automatically delete your game progress. Your save data is typically stored separately from the game files themselves, meaning you can safely remove a game to free up space without losing all your hard-earned achievements. However, there are nuances and exceptions that every Switch owner should be aware of, so let’s delve deeper.

Understanding Save Data on the Nintendo Switch

The Nintendo Switch employs a system where game save data is stored separately from the game software. This is fantastic news because it allows you to manage your storage space without the constant fear of losing hours upon hours of gameplay. When you delete a game, you’re essentially removing the game’s program files from your console or microSD card. The save data, containing your progress, level completions, and character customizations, remains intact.

There are two primary locations where your save data might reside:

• System Memory: The internal storage of your Nintendo Switch is the default location for save data. Even if you have a microSD card installed, some games may still store their save data on the system memory.
• MicroSD Card: If you have a microSD card inserted, newly downloaded games or redownloaded games will often save the data on the microSD card.

The Cloud Save Exception: Nintendo Switch Online

For subscribers to Nintendo Switch Online, there’s an additional layer of protection: Cloud Saves. Many (but not all) games support backing up your save data to the cloud. This provides an extra safety net in case your console is lost, stolen, or experiences a major failure.

Important Considerations:

• Not all games support Cloud Saves. Some games, particularly those with competitive online elements, disable cloud saves to prevent cheating or unfair advantages. Be sure to check the compatibility of each game you’re playing.
• Manual backups are recommended. While cloud saves are generally reliable, it’s always a good idea to periodically back up your save data manually to your microSD card if possible, particularly before performing any major system updates or changes.

Deleting vs. Archiving: What’s the Difference?

The Nintendo Switch offers two options for managing game software: Deleting and Archiving.

• Deleting: This removes the game software entirely from your system or microSD card. You’ll need to redownload the game to play it again.
• Archiving: This removes the game software from your system but retains the game icon on your HOME Menu. When you select the archived game, you’ll be prompted to redownload it. The game is then still linked to your account and can be redownloaded at any time.

In both cases, your save data remains unaffected. The primary difference is the convenience of having the game icon readily available for quick redownloading with archiving.

Specific Scenarios and Potential Pitfalls

While deleting a game generally doesn’t erase your progress, there are certain situations where data loss can occur:

• Factory Reset: Performing a factory reset on your Nintendo Switch will erase all data, including save data. This is a last-resort measure, so be absolutely certain you have backups before proceeding.
• Save Data Corruption: Although rare, save data can become corrupted due to software glitches or hardware failures. Regular backups can help mitigate the risk.
• Deleting Save Data Manually: The Nintendo Switch allows you to delete save data for individual games through the System Settings. Be extremely careful when navigating these menus, as this action is irreversible unless you have a backup.
• Game-Specific Quirks: Some games, especially older titles or indie releases, might have unusual save data management systems. It’s always a good idea to research the specific game you’re concerned about or consult its user manual.

Best Practices for Managing Game Data

To minimize the risk of losing your progress, follow these best practices:

• Subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online to take advantage of cloud saves.
• Periodically back up your save data to a microSD card.
• Familiarize yourself with the save data management system of each game you play.
• Avoid interrupting the save process by powering off the console or removing the game card while the game is saving.
• Treat your Nintendo Switch with care to prevent hardware failures that could lead to data loss.
• Consider joining the Games Learning Society community to learn more about how games work at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about deleting games and save data on the Nintendo Switch:

1. How do I delete a game on my Nintendo Switch?

From the HOME Menu, highlight the game you want to delete, press the “+” or “-” button on your controller, select “Manage Software,” and then choose “Delete Software.”

2. How do I archive a game instead of deleting it?

The process is identical to deleting a game, but select “Archive Software” instead of “Delete Software.”

3. Where is my save data stored on the Nintendo Switch?

Save data is stored either on the system memory or on the microSD card, depending on the game and your system settings.

4. How do I back up my save data to the cloud?

Ensure you are subscribed to Nintendo Switch Online and that cloud saves are enabled in your system settings. The system will automatically back up compatible game data to the cloud when connected to the internet.

5. How do I back up my save data to a microSD card?

Not all games allow direct save data backup to a microSD card. For those that do, the option is usually found within the game’s settings menu.

6. What happens if I delete a game that doesn’t support cloud saves?

Your progress will be safe if your save data remains on the system memory or microSD card. However, if you perform a factory reset or experience data corruption, you may lose your progress.

7. Can I redownload a game I deleted from the Nintendo eShop?

Yes, you can redownload any game you purchased from the Nintendo eShop as many times as you like, as long as you use the same Nintendo Account.

8. How do I find games I’ve previously purchased on the eShop?

Open the Nintendo eShop, select your profile icon in the upper-right corner, and then choose “Redownload.”

9. What happens if I delete a game while playing it?

It’s highly discouraged. It can corrupt your save data, so it’s best to close the game properly before deleting it.

10. How do I free up space on my Nintendo Switch without deleting games?

You can manage save data, screenshots, and videos to free up space. Consider archiving games you don’t play frequently.

11. Will deleting a game also delete my screenshots and videos?

No, deleting a game will not automatically delete your screenshots and videos. These are stored separately and can be managed through the System Settings.

12. What happens if I remove my microSD card while a game is running?

Removing the microSD card while a game is running can cause data corruption or system errors. Always close the game properly before removing the card.

13. How do I move a game from the system memory to a microSD card?

Go to System Settings -> Data Management -> Move Data Between System / microSD Card.

14. Does deleting an app delete my progress?

On the Nintendo Switch, deleting “apps” refers to games. Deleting the game itself will not delete the progress, but clearing save data is different.

15. How can I prevent data loss when deleting or archiving games?

By subscribing to Nintendo Switch Online for cloud saves, manually backing up save data when possible, and understanding the specific save data management of each game.

Conclusion

Deleting a game on your Nintendo Switch is generally a safe way to manage storage without losing your valuable game progress. By understanding how save data is stored, utilizing cloud saves, and following best practices, you can ensure that your gaming adventures are preserved, even when you need to make room for new experiences. Happy gaming!