Can you convert a physical Switch game to digital?

With the Nintendo Switch you can purchase and download a digital copy of a physical game you own. The physical game does not give you rights to a free digital copy, and never will with Nintendo. For most Switch games a digital copy will be able to use the game save data created by your physical copy.

Can I make physical Switch game digital?

Best answer: Yep. If you own the physical or digital copy of a Nintendo Switch game, the game save data for the Switch is in the system's memory. So, if you're on the physical version and want to switch to digital instead, you should be able to do that without a hitch.

Can you transfer physical Switch games to SD card?

*Game save data is only stored in the system memory, so it can't be moved to the microSD card.

Can I play a Switch game if I lost the cartridge?

@JellySlap No, if you lose a physical game, you'll have to buy it again. If you replace it, it doesn't matter if you buy digital or physical since game save data is stored separately on Switch internal memory. On the plus side, if you replace the game, you'll be able to resume your game progress where you left off.

Can I buy a Switch game and download it later?

Yes as long as you don't delete it forever. You can delete it and redownload digitals yes. Or if you are worried about deleting it accidently just put a sd card into your switch and keep it downloaded on the card. Digitals take a lot of memory space but you don't have to worry about a cartridge getting lost.

The problem with digital games and why you need to stop buying them

How do I download already owned games on Switch?

To redownload the game, launch the Nintendo eShop using the Nintendo Account that originally purchased the game, select your user icon in the top-right corner to access the shop settings, and highlight Redownload. Select the game in the list of previously purchased titles, then select the orange icon to redownload.

Is it better to buy physical games or digital?

Much of it comes down to personal preference. If you like having shelves lined with your games that you can browse and reminisce, you'll want to go for physical. If you prefer the convenience and speed offered through digital purchases, and don't want game boxes lying around, then you'll want to go digital.

Can I get a digital copy of a game I already own on disc?

Yes you can. The Playstation Store offers digital version of games. All you have to do is purchase them there (preferably on sale), then download and install them. But if you installed the game from the disc, you will need it whenever you play.

Is anything saved on a Switch cartridge?

Game Progress & Save Data

On Nintendo Switch, game save data is stored on the console's System Memory. This will not change whether downloadable software or software from a game card is being played. Game save data cannot be saved or copied to a microSD card.

Can you use the same game cartridge on two switches?

A: You need 2 game cartridges to play together on local if you buy 2 switch consoles.

Can you redownload purchased games on Switch to a new SD card?

Drag the data from the desktop to the new microSD card, then insert the new microSD card into the Nintendo Switch console. Any software that cannot be read on the system using the new microSD card can simply be redownloaded from the Nintendo eShop.

Can you use Nintendo eShop cards for physical games?

Digital content can be purchased in Nintendo eShop and on the Nintendo website. Your Nintendo Account balance can not be used towards the purchase of physical games or products.

Are Switch cartridges just SD cards?

The Nintendo Switch uses non-volatile flash memory technology similar to SD cards that are officially called game cards. These are distinct technologies from volatile game cartridges that are similar to RAM boards.

How do I dump a Switch cartridge to my computer?

What part of a Switch cartridge tastes bad?

Nintendo Switch game cards are coated in a bitter-tasting substance (denatonium benzoate).

Can you transfer disc data to digital?

The answer is yes. As long as you purchase the same game, you can switch to its digital edition and still keep your saved data and progress.

Why are Switch games cheaper physical?

When you buy a physical game disc, it doesn't cost the platform provider anything for it to sit on your shelf. New digital games partially subsidize the upkeep of older games that may not be selling as much anymore.

What's the point of buying physical games?

Another big plus: There are no subscriptions needed for physical games; they're always yours. What's more, unlike digital games, physical games have a resale value. This value can even rise above the original purchase price if the game becomes a collector's item.

How many games can a Switch hold?

The standard Nintendo Switch has 32 GB of storage, allowing you to store and install around 4-8 games, including large games like Zelda. However, if you have the option for a Switch with 64 GB of storage, you can store double the number of games, up to 8-16.

Why can't I download a purchased game on Switch?

Check Data Management in the Nintendo Switch System Settings to verify that there is enough space on your system to complete the download. If there is not enough space, delete some content. Check Redownloads in the Nintendo Switch eShop (in your account information).

What happens if you buy a game on the Nintendo Switch eShop but also have the cartridge?

The short answer is, nothing bad happens if you insert a cartridge for a game you already own digitally. And nothing bad will happen if you own the game physically, but buy digitally later on. If you have both physical & digital, the switch will play the game from the cart when the cart is inserted.

What happens if I lose a Switch game?

We recommend purchasing a replacement copy of the game at a retailer. If the game is published by a licensee company, you will need to contact that company for repair/replacement options.

Do Switch games load slower on SD card?

Depending on what you use your SD card for, yes. A lot. For example, the Nintendo Switch has limited storage, and getting an SD card can let you install more and bigger games. Any SD card will help, but the faster the card, the quicker those games on it will load.

Do games run better on Switch internal storage?

Tldr: have your main games on the internal memory, that'll save roughly 10% loading times compared to a quality, fast SD card.

How long will Switch game card last?

The cartridges lasting forever isn't a concern. Because if you care for them, they will last forever. However, their usefulness is questionable. Some games require updates, some don't.