Nintendo Switch Archive vs Delete: Understanding the Differences

Managing storage on your Nintendo Switch is essential, especially with the growing library of digital games. Two primary options for freeing up space are archiving and deleting games (Nintendo Switch Archive vs Delete. While both methods help manage storage, they serve different purposes and have distinct implications for your game data.​

What Does Archiving a Game Do? – Nintendo Switch Archive vs Delete

Archiving a game removes the game software from your system storage but retains the game’s icon on your Home Menu (source). This means you can easily redownload the game later without having to search for it in the eShop. Importantly, archiving does not affect your save data; your progress is preserved. This feature is particularly useful if you’re running low on space but plan to revisit the game in the future.​

What Happens When You Delete a Game?

Deleting a game removes both the software and its icon from your system. However, the game’s save data remains intact on your console, allowing you to reinstall the game later and continue from where you left off. This method is beneficial if you want to free up space and don’t anticipate playing the game again soon but wish to keep your progress for future playthroughs.​

Key Differences Between Archiving and Deleting

• Storage Impact: Both archiving and deleting free up space, but archiving keeps the game’s icon on your Home Menu, making it easier to redownload. Deleting removes the icon, requiring you to search for the game in the eShop if you wish to reinstall it.​
• Save Data: Neither method deletes your save data. Your game progress is preserved in both cases, ensuring you can pick up where you left off upon reinstalling.​
• Reinstallation: Archiving allows for quicker reinstallation by keeping the game’s icon on your Home Menu. Deleting requires you to navigate to the eShop to find and reinstall the game.​

When to Use Each Option

• Use Archiving: If you’re low on storage but plan to play the game again soon, archiving is a convenient option. It saves space while keeping the game easily accessible.​
• Use Deleting: If you don’t plan to play the game in the near future and want to free up as much space as possible, deleting is appropriate. Just remember that you’ll need to search for the game in the eShop if you decide to reinstall it later.​

Managing Save Data

It’s important to note that save data is not automatically deleted when you delete a game. Save data is stored separately from the game software and remains on your system. If you wish to delete save data, you must do so manually through the system settings.​

Understanding the differences between archiving and deleting games on your Nintendo Switch can help you manage your storage more effectively. Archiving is ideal for temporarily removing a game while keeping it easily accessible for future play, whereas deleting is suitable for freeing up space when you no longer need the game. Both methods preserve your save data, ensuring that your progress is safe regardless of which option you choose.

Last Updated: April 16, 2025