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Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →If you deleted or archived a downloaded game, you can usually reinstall it without losing your progress. On the HOME Menu, open Virtual Game Cards, select the user linked to the purchase, choose the game, then select Load on This System. You can also use Options → Download Data. A missing game icon is not the same as deleted save data: Nintendo says deleting or archiving software does not delete its save.
First, identify what is missing
The right recovery method depends on whether you lost downloaded software, access to a physical game, downloadable content (DLC), or your game progress.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Minecraft - Nintendo Switch | $29.83 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Super Smash Bros. Ultimate - US Version | $52.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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Mario Kart™ World (Nintendo Switch 2) | $79.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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Super Mario Galaxy™ + Super Mario Galaxy™ 2 | $64.99 | Buy on Amazon |
- Downloaded game: Redownload it using the Nintendo Account that purchased it. Nintendo’s redownload instructions use the Virtual Game Cards menu.
- Physical game: Insert the game card. If the game’s installed software data was removed, remove and reinsert the card, as described in Nintendo’s game-card troubleshooting guide. The installed software and save data are separate.
- Save or progress: Saves are stored in the console’s system memory, not on a microSD card. Deleting or archiving software normally leaves them intact. Nintendo says save data associated with a deleted user account cannot be restored; avoid deleting profiles while troubleshooting. See Nintendo’s Data Management FAQ.
- DLC: Check the game’s eShop page and the DLC entry. Nintendo’s missing-content guide advises loading the virtual game card for DLC. For DLC used with a physical game, confirm that the relevant purchase is available for your game’s region.
- Demos, trials, or membership content: Some content is not listed as a virtual game card. Nintendo says most demos and Game Trials can be downloaded again through Nintendo eShop; classic game libraries and membership-exclusive DLC are accessed through the Nintendo Switch Online menu.
Redownload a purchased digital game
- Connect the console to the internet. On the HOME Menu, open Virtual Game Cards.
- Select the user linked to the purchase and authenticate if prompted.
- Choose the game and select Load on This System. If you do not want to load the virtual card, open Options → Download Data instead.
- Wait for the download to begin and appear on the HOME Menu. It may take time to complete.
Nintendo’s redownload guide covers this process. Menu wording can vary by system menu version; Nintendo recommends keeping the console updated through its software-management guidance.
If the game is missing from Virtual Game Cards
- In Virtual Game Cards, select Can’t Find Software? → View Hidden Virtual Game Cards. Authenticate if asked, then load the game if it appears.
- Check the other user accounts on the console. The purchase may be tied to a different Nintendo Account than the one currently selected.
- Open the game’s Nintendo eShop page while using the suspected purchasing account. Nintendo says an owned item may show Virtual Game Cards or Purchased. If the page instead offers a price or Proceed to Purchase, that account has not purchased it.
These checks follow Nintendo’s instructions for redownloading content and finding missing digital content.
#1 Best Overall
- Minecraft is a game about placing blocks and going on adventures
- Explore randomly generated worlds and build amazing things from the simplest of homes to the grandest of castles
- Play in creative mode with unlimited resources or mine deep into the world in survival mode, crafting weapons and armor to fend off the dangerous mobs
- Play on the go in handheld or tabletop modes
- Includes Super Mario Mash-Up, Natural Texture Pack, Biome Settlers Skin Pack, Battle & Beasts Skin Pack, Campfire Tales Skin Pack; Compatible with Nintendo Switch only
Restore access to a physical game
Insert the game card to play. If the console says you must have the software to play, remove and reinsert the card, then check for a software update. Deleting installed game software does not delete the save; Nintendo’s troubleshooting steps address this error.
Understand what happened to your save
Switch save data is separate from downloaded or installed game software. Nintendo says saves remain in system memory when you archive or delete a game, whether you play a digital or physical copy. They cannot be copied to a microSD card. If a save is missing after reinstalling, that is a separate problem from recovering the game software.
Rank #2
- New stages and fighters are joined by the combined rosters of every past Super Smash Bros. Game
- Challenge others anytime, anywhere, whether you're on the couch or on the go
- Play any way you want—locally, online, in TV mode, Tabletop mode, Handheld mode, or even with GameCube Controllers
- Fight faster and smarter with new and returning techniques, like the perfect shield and directional air dodge
- Face off in 2-4 player battles, or play against the computer
Nintendo also warns that deleting a user account deletes its associated saves, which cannot then be restored. Do not assume every save can be recovered from a cloud backup: backup eligibility and status depend on the game and account, so check the game’s and Nintendo Switch Online account’s current save-data settings if the local save is missing. Nintendo’s Data Management FAQ explains the distinction between software and saves.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.If the download or launch still fails
- If the game icon does not appear after starting a download, restart the console.
- For a physical copy, reinsert the game card and check for a software update.
- A microSD card can add space for downloaded software, updates, DLC, and screenshots, but it does not store or restore saves. Storage needs vary by game and downloaded content.
- If Nintendo’s steps do not restore access, contact Nintendo Support rather than using third-party recovery software.
The cited Nintendo Support pages cover Nintendo Switch family systems; some redownload and missing-content guidance also covers Nintendo Switch 2. eShop availability and DLC region compatibility can affect what you see.
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1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsQuick Recap
Rank #4
- Journey through space in two Super Mario adventures, now improved for the Nintendo Switch system!
- Travel the stars with enhanced resolution, improved UI, and additional content
- Learn more about the Lumas from additional Storybook chapters, groove to a bit of additional music
- Get additional Health and fall recovery in Assist Mode
- Join Rosalina and the Lumas to restore the Comet Observatory and rescue Princess Peach in Super Mario Galaxy.
Rank #3
- Race from one course to another through interconnected paths that span the world
- Traverse mountains, forests, cities, and more—with shifting weather patterns and a day/night cycle
- Ride on rails, jump off walls, skim across water, and more as you race for the finish line
- Take on the adrenaline-packed Knockout Tour—a fierce 24-driver elimination mode
- Explore courses at your own pace and wander the world to discover fun surprises in Free Roam
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
