How to Fix Nintendo Switch Corrupted Data Error

The Nintendo Switch can display a corrupted data error that prevents games from launching or causes them to crash. Here are all the methods to fix corrupted data on your Switch.

Method 1: Check for Corrupted Data

1. Go to System Settings on the home screen.
2. Select Data Management.
3. Select Software, then select the affected game.
4. Select Check for Corrupt Data.
5. If corruption is found, the Switch will attempt to repair or re-download the affected files.

Method 2: Delete and Re-Download the Game

Deleting and re-downloading the game replaces all corrupted files. Your save data is stored separately and will not be lost.

1. Go to System Settings, Data Management, Manage Software.
2. Select the affected game.
3. Select Delete Software.
4. Go to the eShop and re-download the game, or insert the game card and let it reinstall.

Method 3: Update the Game

1. Highlight the game on the home screen.
2. Press the + button.
3. Select Software Update, then Via the Internet.
4. Install any available updates.

Method 4: Check the SD Card

A faulty SD card can cause corrupted data errors, especially for games stored on the card.

1. Turn off the Switch and remove the microSD card.
2. Turn on the Switch without the card and test the game if it is on internal storage.
3. If the game only has issues when on the SD card, the card may be faulty.
4. Try formatting the SD card (Settings, System, Formatting Options, Format microSD Card).
5. If the card continues to cause problems, replace it with a new one.

Method 5: Update System Software

1. Go to System Settings, System, System Update.
2. Install any available updates.
3. Restart and test the game.

Method 6: Move Game Between Storage Locations

Moving the game from the SD card to internal storage (or vice versa) can fix storage-related corruption.

1. Go to System Settings, Data Management, Move Data Between System/microSD Card.
2. Select the affected game.
3. Move it to the other storage location.
4. Test the game after moving.

Method 7: Initialize Console (Last Resort)

Initializing the console resets it to factory settings. Back up your save data to Nintendo Switch Online or a local backup first.

1. Go to System Settings, System, Formatting Options.
2. Select Initialize Console.
3. Follow the prompts to reset.
4. Re-download your games and restore save data from the cloud.