Summary: A Pokémon fan lost over 1,000 hours and 20 years of Pokémon when their Scarlet/Violet save disappeared during a Switch→Switch 2 transfer. Because Pokémon games lack cloud saves, experts recommend using local transfer and backing up prized creatures with Pokémon HOME.
A Pokémon fan lost over 1,000 hours and 20 years of Pokémon after a Switch→Switch 2 transfer. Learn how to avoid a similar disaster with smart backup strategies.
Fan Loses “20 Years” of Pokémon Save Data in Switch 2 Transfer
A 1,000‑Hour Scarlet/Violet Save Wiped Out
A Pokémon fan tried transferring their Scarlet/Violet save from a original Switch to a brand-new Switch 2—but lost over 1,000 hours of gameplay, including Pokémon carried forward since the GBA era. The transfer reported “went fine,” but the Scarlet file disappeared entirely.
Why It Happened
Switch titles like Pokémon don’t support cloud saves on Nintendo Switch Online. Without a backup, the system-transfer method moves saves locally—and any interruption (like a wireless glitch) can corrupt or erase the data.
How to Protect Your Pokémon
- Use local system-transfer: Keep both consoles close and follow Nintendo’s steps carefully.
- Back up with Pokémon HOME: Even the free tier holds 30 Pokémon, while premium supports up to 6,000.
- Prioritize valuable creatures: Deposit rare or sentimental Pokémon before transferring saves.
Community Advice & Lessons Learned
Reddit users stress that using Pokémon HOME before transferring is essential—one commenter even shared condolences after losing their own decades-old collection.
This is a strong reminder: without cloud backup, local transfers carry risk. Use HOME or proceed carefully to avoid disaster.
