Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Marred by Pokemon Scarlet and Violet Save Data Issues










2025-06-16T20:11:23Z

For years, gamers have been anticipating the arrival of the Nintendo Switch 2, a highly awaited successor to the original Switch console. However, the transition to the new system hasn't been entirely seamless for all players. A number of users have reported troubling issues related to the popular titles, Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, specifically concerning the loss of save data during the transfer process to the new device.
Attention to this issue was drawn through a post on Reddit, where one frustrated player recounted the loss of their save file following the transition. The thread quickly gained traction as others chimed in with similar misfortunes, sharing their own tales of lost progress. One particular user, known as ThatOtaku26, revealed that their lost file contained an astounding 1,000 hours of gameplay. This save file was particularly sentimental for the player, as it included beloved Pokemon that had been carried over from multiple generations, starting from classic titles like Pokemon Leaf Green and Pokemon Diamond on the Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS.
In their Reddit post, ThatOtaku26 expressed their dismay: “I just got a Switch 2, did the startup and initial data transfer with no issues. My Scarlet save file is gone. It loads straight into the language selection and create a character screens. No data on my OLED. Just all gone. THERE WAS NO ERROR IN DATA TRANSFER AT ALL. IT WENT FINE. ALL MY OTHER POKEMON DATA IS STILL THERE, BUT NOT SCARLET. I had mons from my original GBA up to current on there. Literally 20 years worth of data. There’s nothing I can do. I don’t even know if I wanna play anymore.”
This experience has resonated with many fans who rallied to express their sympathy and shared their own similar experiences. It's worth noting that Pokemon titles on the Nintendo Switch, including popular games such as Let’s Go, Pikachu and Let’s Go, Eevee, Pokemon Sword and Shield, Legends: Arceus, as well as Scarlet and Violet, notably lack support for the console's built-in cloud save functionality. This feature is available to subscribers of Nintendo Switch Online and is essential for safeguarding save data.
In light of these unfortunate incidents, players are strongly encouraged to maintain an active Pokémon Home account. This platform serves as the franchise’s dedicated backup and transfer service, which can help mitigate the risk of losing valuable game data in the future.
Stay tuned to IGN for the latest news on the Nintendo Switch 2 and other exciting gaming updates.
Elena Petrova
Source of the news: Nintendo Everything