Deleting your Nintendo Account from your Nintendo Switch isn't the same as deleting the user profile itself. This guide will clarify the differences and walk you through both processes, ensuring you understand exactly what happens and how to proceed. We'll also address some frequently asked questions.
Understanding the Difference: User Profile vs. Nintendo Account
It's crucial to distinguish between a user profile on your Nintendo Switch and your Nintendo Account.
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User Profile: This is the individual profile you create on your Switch console. It stores your save data, game settings, and other personalized information related to that specific console. Deleting a user profile removes this data from the console only. Your Nintendo Account remains intact.
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Nintendo Account: This is your online account associated with Nintendo's services, including the eShop, online play, and Nintendo Switch Online. Deleting your Nintendo Account permanently removes your access to all Nintendo services associated with that account. This includes your purchase history, friend list, and any saved game data tied to the account (though some game data might remain on the console itself).
How to Delete a User Profile on Nintendo Switch
Deleting a user profile is relatively simple:
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Access System Settings: From the Nintendo Switch home menu, select "System Settings."
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Navigate to Users: Scroll down and select "Users."
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Select the Profile: Choose the user profile you wish to delete.
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Delete User: You'll see an option to delete the user. Select this option and confirm your choice. This action only removes the profile from the console.
How to Delete a Nintendo Account
Deleting your Nintendo Account is a more permanent action. Follow these steps carefully:
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Access Nintendo Account Website: Go to the official Nintendo website and log in to your Nintendo Account.
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Navigate to Account Settings: Find and select the section relating to account settings or management. The exact wording may vary slightly.
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Find Account Deletion Options: Look for an option to close, delete, or terminate your account. Nintendo usually makes this a less readily apparent option to prevent accidental deletions.
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Follow the Instructions: The website will guide you through the process. You might need to confirm your decision, provide a reason for deletion, and possibly wait a certain period before the account is permanently removed. Note: You may need to remove linked accounts (like those on social media) first.
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Confirmation: After completing the steps, you will receive confirmation that your account deletion request has been processed. This process can take some time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happens to my save data when I delete a user profile?
Deleting a user profile removes the save data associated with that profile on that specific console. If you have a Nintendo Switch Online subscription and have cloud saves enabled, this data may be recoverable, depending on the game.
What happens to my save data when I delete my Nintendo Account?
Your save data linked to your Nintendo Account will be deleted. Any save data stored locally on the console might still exist, depending on the game and whether you've linked it to your account.
Can I recover my Nintendo Account after deletion?
No. Deleting your Nintendo Account is a permanent action. You cannot recover your account or its associated data after deletion.
How long does it take to delete my Nintendo Account?
Nintendo states there may be a waiting period after you initiate the deletion. Check their website for the most up-to-date information.
What if I forget my password?
If you've forgotten your Nintendo Account password, use the password recovery feature on the Nintendo website to reset it before attempting to delete your account.
By carefully understanding the difference between user profiles and Nintendo Accounts, and by following these steps, you can successfully manage your accounts and data on your Nintendo Switch. Remember, deleting your Nintendo Account is a permanent action, so proceed with caution and be sure this is what you intend to do.
