What happens when you archive software on Nintendo switch?

What Happens When You Archive Software on Nintendo Switch?

Archiving software on the Nintendo Switch is a convenient way to free up storage space without deleting the game or its save data. But what exactly happens when you archive software on the Switch? In this article, we’ll explore the process of archiving software on the Nintendo Switch and what it means for your games and save data.

What is Archiving on the Nintendo Switch?

Archiving is a feature on the Nintendo Switch that allows you to remove a game from your console’s storage without deleting it. When you archive a game, it is moved to a separate storage area on your console, freeing up space on your internal storage or microSD card. Archiving a game does not delete its save data, so you can still access your progress and redownload the game at a later time.

How to Archive Software on the Nintendo Switch

Archiving software on the Nintendo Switch is a simple process that can be done from the console’s home screen. Here’s how:

1. Select the game you want to archive: From the home screen, select the game you want to archive.
2. Press the minus button: Press the minus button on your controller to open the game’s options menu.
3. Select "Delete": Select "Delete" from the options menu.
4. Choose "Archive": Choose "Archive" from the delete menu.
5. Confirm: Confirm that you want to archive the game.

What Happens to the Game After Archiving

After archiving a game, it will no longer be visible on your console’s home screen. However, the game’s save data will still be preserved, and you can redownload the game at a later time. Here’s what happens to the game after archiving:

• Game icon disappears: The game’s icon will no longer be visible on your console’s home screen.
• Save data is preserved: The game’s save data will still be preserved, and you can access it when you redownload the game.
• Game is moved to a separate storage area: The game is moved to a separate storage area on your console, freeing up space on your internal storage or microSD card.

Can You Redownload an Archived Game?

Yes, you can redownload an archived game at a later time. Here’s how:

1. Launch the Nintendo eShop: Launch the Nintendo eShop from the home screen.
2. Select "Redownload": Select "Redownload" from the eShop menu.
3. Choose the game: Choose the game you want to redownload from the list of available titles.
4. Download: The game will begin downloading to your console.

What is the Difference Between Archiving and Deleting a Game?

Archiving and deleting a game are two different processes with different consequences. Here’s what you need to know:

• Archiving: Archiving a game removes it from your console’s home screen, but preserves its save data and allows you to redownload it at a later time.
• Deleting: Deleting a game removes it from your console’s home screen and deletes its save data. You will not be able to redownload a deleted game.

Can You Archive Multiple Games at Once?

Yes, you can archive multiple games at once using the "Quick Archive" feature. Here’s how:

1. Select multiple games: Select multiple games from the home screen.
2. Press the minus button: Press the minus button on your controller to open the game’s options menu.
3. Select "Delete": Select "Delete" from the options menu.
4. Choose "Quick Archive": Choose "Quick Archive" from the delete menu.
5. Confirm: Confirm that you want to archive the games.

Conclusion

Archiving software on the Nintendo Switch is a convenient way to free up storage space without deleting the game or its save data. By understanding how archiving works and what happens to the game after archiving, you can make informed decisions about managing your games and save data on your console.