Initializing the Nintendo Switch console will remove the following data:
- All data in the console memory, including software, save data, screenshots, and user information will be deleted, restoring the console to factory settings.
- If you have save data backups stored to the Save Data Cloud service, you will be able to download them once you create a new user and link to it your Nintendo Account.
- All software saved on the microSD card, except for screenshots, will become unusable. (Data on the microSD card will not be deleted.)
- Any Nintendo Accounts linked to the console will not be deleted, but they will be unlinked from the console. After initializing the console, you can create a new user and link to it your Nintendo Account.
- Your Nintendo Account contains your Nintendo eShop purchase history and balance. By re-linking your Nintendo Account after initializing the console (to the same console or a different one), it is possible to re-download any software or DLC purchased using that account.
Additional information
You can also initialize the console without deleting save data via Maintenance mode, which will retain save data and user settings on the console.
