With an ever-growing library of games available on the Nintendo Switch, it’s possible to run out of storage space or simply want to delete a game temporarily. Whether you’ve archived a title or mistakenly deleted one, knowing how to redownload games on Switch becomes an invaluable skill for any avid gamer. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the step-by-step process of retrieving your beloved games, ensuring you never miss out on the action.
Basic Steps to Redownload Games on Switch
- Step 1: Start by accessing the Nintendo eShop on your Switch.
- Step 2: Select the account that initially purchased the game.
- Step 3: Navigate to the top-right corner and click on the profile icon.
- Step 4: In the menu that appears, locate and select “Redownload”.
- Step 5: A list of games and software available for redownload will appear. Find your desired game and click “Redownload” beside it.
What to Do When Nintendo Switch Purchased Game is Not Showing Up in Re-download
If your Nintendo Switch-purchased game is not showing up in redownload, ensure:
- The game was purchased with the account you are logged into.
- The game hasn’t been delisted from the Nintendo eShop.
- There’s adequate storage space on your Switch for the game.
- If issues persist, searching forums like Nintendo Switch says the game was purchased but can’t be downloaded. Reddit might offer more personalized solutions.
Redownloading Archived Games
Wondering about how to redownload archived games on Switch?
- Archived games leave behind an icon on the home screen. Click on this icon.
- The system will prompt you to redownload the archived game.
- Ensure you’re connected to the internet, and the game will begin downloading.
Redownloading on Other Platforms: A Quick Look
While our focus remains on how to redownload games on Switch, platforms like the PS4 have similar methods. For the PS4, accessing your library and locating “Purchased” will show games available for redownload. A quick click, and the game starts downloading.
Nintendo eShop: The Gateway to Your Purchases
The Nintendo eShop is more than just a marketplace. It’s a hub for all your digital purchases, updates, and more. Regularly check for updates and deals, and revisit your redownload list when needed.
Redownloading on a Different Switch Console
Considering, can you redownload Switch games on another Switch? Absolutely!
- Log in with the Nintendo account used to make the original purchase on the new console.
- Access the Nintendo eShop.
- Follow the basic redownloading steps mentioned above.
How to Redownload DLCs and Extras
Not just games, but you might need to know how to redownload DLC on Switch:
- Access the Nintendo eShop.
- Navigate to your profile, then “Redownload”.
- Locate the desired DLC or additional content and click “Redownload”.
Popular Games: Redownloading Fortnite on Switch
For popular titles like Fortnite, how to redownload Fortnite on Switch follows the primary steps:
- Open the Nintendo eShop.
- Search for Fortnite.
- Click on the game and select “Redownload” or “Download” if you had previously archived or deleted it.
Conclusion
Revisiting your favorite titles or making space for new ones shouldn’t mean permanently losing your games. By understanding how to redownload games on Switch, you empower yourself with the ability to manage your digital library efficiently. From addressing common issues to accessing games on other consoles, this guide provides you with all the tools you need for a seamless gaming experience. Dive back into your beloved games today!
FAQs: How to Redownload Games on Switch
Q. Why can’t I redownload a game on my Switch?
Several reasons could prevent you from redownloading a game:
- Account Mismatch: Ensure you’re logged into the Nintendo account that made the original purchase.
- Delisted Game: Sometimes games are removed or delisted from the Nintendo eShop. In such cases, redownloading might be restricted.
- Insufficient Storage: Your Switch may not have enough storage space. Consider using a microSD card or deleting unnecessary files to free up space.
- Network Issues: Ensure you have a stable internet connection. If the Nintendo eShop server is down, you might face redownload issues.
- Parental Controls: If parental controls are set, they might be restricting downloads. Check settings to ensure this isn’t the case.
Q. Can you redownload Switch games after deleting them?
Yes, you can. As long as you’ve purchased the game using your Nintendo account, it remains tied to your account. To redownload games on Switch that you’ve deleted, simply go to the Nintendo eShop, click on your profile icon, navigate to the “Redownload” section, and select the game you wish to retrieve.
Q. How do I redownload downloadable content on Switch?
Redownloading downloadable content (DLC) is similar to redownloading games.
- Access the Nintendo eShop using the account that purchased the DLC.
- Click on your profile icon, located at the top right.
- Navigate to the “Redownload” section.
- Here, you’ll find a list of all games and DLC available for redownload. Simply find the DLC you wish to retrieve and click “Redownload” next to it.
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