What happens if you delete a linked Nintendo Account?

What Happens If You Delete a Linked Nintendo Account?

When it comes to managing your Nintendo Account, there are several options available, including the ability to delete the account. However, before doing so, it’s essential to understand the consequences of deleting a linked Nintendo Account. In this article, we’ll explore what happens if you delete a linked Nintendo Account, including the effects on your digital games, save data, and more.

Deleting a Nintendo Account: What to Expect

Deleting a Nintendo Account is a permanent action, and once it’s done, there’s no way to recover the account or its associated data. If you’re considering deleting your Nintendo Account, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons and understand the potential consequences.

Loss of Digital Games

One of the most significant consequences of deleting a linked Nintendo Account is the loss of digital games. When you delete your account, you’ll no longer have access to the games you’ve purchased or downloaded. All digital games linked to your account will be unrecoverable, and you’ll need to re-purchase them if you want to continue playing.

Save Data

Save data is another crucial aspect to consider when deleting a Nintendo Account. Save data is linked to the user on the Switch, not the Nintendo Account, which means that deleting your account won’t directly affect your save data. However, if you have save files that use downloadable content (DLC), deleting your account may cause issues with accessing those DLC files.

Nintendo eShop Licenses and Balances

Deleting a Nintendo Account also affects Nintendo eShop licenses and balances. When you delete your account, all Nintendo eShop licenses and balances will be lost, and you’ll need to re-purchase any games or DLC you’ve previously purchased.

Linked Nintendo Network IDs

Only one Nintendo Network ID (NNID) can be linked to a Nintendo Account. Deleting your account will also delete your NNID, which means you’ll need to create a new NNID if you want to continue using online features.

How to Delete a Nintendo Account

If you’re still determined to delete your Nintendo Account, here are the steps to follow:

1. Sign in to your Nintendo Account on the Nintendo website or the Nintendo Switch console.
2. Select System Settings on the HOME Menu.
3. Scroll down to System, and select it.
4. Scroll all the way down to the bottom of the menu, and select Formatting Options.
5. Select Initialize Console to delete all data in the system memory.

Important Note: Deleting your Nintendo Account is a permanent action, and you should only do so if you’re sure you want to remove all associated data. It’s recommended to back up your save data and DLC files before deleting your account.

Alternatives to Deleting Your Nintendo Account

Before deleting your Nintendo Account, consider the following alternatives:

• Create a new Nintendo Account: If you’re no longer interested in using your current account, you can create a new one and transfer your existing data to the new account.
• Close the account: If you’re experiencing issues with your account or want to take a break, you can close your account instead of deleting it. This will allow you to reactivate your account later if needed.
• Contact Nintendo Support: If you’re experiencing technical issues or have questions about deleting your account, contact Nintendo Support for assistance.

In conclusion, deleting a linked Nintendo Account is a permanent action that carries significant consequences. Before taking this step, it’s essential to understand the effects on your digital games, save data, and more. Consider the alternatives mentioned above or seek assistance from Nintendo Support if you’re unsure about what to do.