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Error Message: "Unable to start software. Return to the HOME Menu and try again." (Downloaded Software on Nintendo Switch)

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

Follow these steps when you're trying to start a downloaded game on a Nintendo Switch console and receive the error message: "Unable to start software. Return to the HOME Menu and try again."

Note: If you receive this error message while using the game card version of the software, please see Game Card Read Issues (Including Error Message: Nothing Inserted in the Game Card Slot).

Possible solutions

  • Restart the Nintendo Switch system by holding down the POWER Button for at least three seconds, then select Power OptionsOpciones de apagadoOptions d'alimentationOpções de desligar and then Restart.
    • If the system is not responding, hold down the POWER Button for twelve seconds in order to force the system to shut down. Then power it on again.
  • Perform a system update.
  • Check for any software updates for the problematic game.
  • Check for corrupt data.
  • Delete the problematic software and then redownload it.
  • If the issue persists and a microSD card is being used with the system, try the following:
    • Format the microSD card.
    • Replace the microSD card.
    • Remove the microSD card and download the game again to download it directly to the system memory.

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