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Save Data Cloud Backup Files Are Missing on Nintendo Switch

Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch Lite, Nintendo Switch - OLED Model

Follow these steps when game progress from your most recent save data backup is missing or was not saved to the Save Data Cloud service.

Note: Save data backups for Nintendo Switch software can be shared between Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch consoles using the same Nintendo Account. If you own the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition of a Nintendo Switch game, any Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive features or content is not accessible on Nintendo Switch.

What to do

Check the status of the most recent save data backup stored to the cloud by going to System Settings, followed by Data Management, and then Save Data Cloud Backup. Select the intended user, then select the software in question.

  • The timestamp for the most recent save data that was backed up to the cloud, along with the most recent save data that is available on the console, will be displayed on the right-hand side of the screen.
    Automatic Save-Data Backup highlighted on the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Software screen
  • When using either of the following two options (Back Up Save Data or Download Save Data), keep in mind that any overwritten save data cannot be recovered.
    • If the save data on the console is more recent than the version stored in the cloud service, you can manually back up your save data by selecting Back Up Save Data.
    • If the save data stored in the cloud service is more recent than the version on the console, you can download the save data stored in the cloud by selecting Download Save Data.

Additional information

Please note the following best practices for saved data backup:

  • Verify that that the console is connected to the Internet.
    • How to connect to the internet
      1. Place the Nintendo Switch within 10 feet of the wireless router to ensure a strong wireless signal.
      2. On the Nintendo Switch console, select Settings from the HOME Menu.
        System Settings icon highlighted on the HOME Menu Screen
      3. Select Internet, and then Internet Settings. The Nintendo Switch will automatically search for near-by Wi-Fi signals.
        Internet is selected on the System Settings menu on the Nintendo Switch
      4. Select the appropriate network name (SSID) from the list.
      5. If prompted, use the onscreen keyboard to enter the network's wireless password.
        Onscreen keyboard displayed when a network's wireless password is required
      6. The Nintendo Switch will test the Internet connection. Once the test is complete, select OK to complete the process.
        • If the connection test fails, an error code and message will appear, which can help you troubleshoot connection errors.
  • Verify that the automatic save data backup setting is On for each user on the console. Selecting Automatic Save-Data Backup will turn this feature on or off. When automatic save data backup is enabled, the game progress will be backed up once the software is closed or while the console is in sleep mode.
  • Verify that the intended software supports save data backup.

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