How to Upgrade Pokémon Legends Z-A to Switch 2 Edition

Upgrading your copy of Pokémon Legends: Z-A to the Switch 2 Edition gives you enhanced graphics, faster loading, and exclusive in-game bonuses. This guide covers the exact steps for both physical and digital versions, what you need before you start, and how to fix common issues.

What You’ll Need

• A Nintendo Switch 2 console (the upgrade is not available on the original Switch).
• Your original Pokémon Legends: Z-A game card (if you bought a physical copy) OR the Nintendo Account that purchased the digital version.
• An internet connection on your Switch 2.
• Sufficient free storage space on your Switch 2 (the upgrade adds roughly 5 GB).
• Your Nintendo Account password if you haven’t logged in recently.

Step-by-Step

1. Insert your game card or verify your digital purchase. If you have a physical copy, insert the Pokémon Legends: Z-A game card into your Switch 2. If you bought the game digitally, make sure you are logged into the same Nintendo Account on your Switch 2 that you used to make the purchase.
2. Open the game normally. Launch Pokémon Legends: Z-A from the home menu. The game will start in its original Switch version mode.
3. Look for the upgrade prompt. On the title screen, you should see a message like “Switch 2 Edition Upgrade Available.” Select it. If you don’t see it, go to the next step.
4. Go to the Nintendo eShop. From the game’s title screen, select “Nintendo eShop” or press the + button on your controller while highlighting the game icon on the home menu, then select “Software Information” and then “Nintendo eShop.”
5. Find the upgrade. In the eShop, search for “Pokémon Legends: Z-A Switch 2 Edition.” It should appear as a free add-on or a separate entry. Select it.
6. Download the upgrade. Click “Download” or “Get.” The upgrade will start downloading. This may take a few minutes depending on your internet speed.
7. Wait for installation. Once the download is complete, the Switch 2 will automatically install the upgrade. You’ll see a notification when it’s done.
8. Launch the Switch 2 Edition. Go back to the home menu. The game icon should now have a small “2” badge or say “Switch 2 Edition.” Launch the game from that icon.
9. Confirm the upgrade. When the game starts, you should see a “Switch 2 Edition” splash screen. Your save data from the original version will carry over automatically.

Common Mistakes

• Using the wrong console. The upgrade only works on a Nintendo Switch 2. It will not appear on the original Switch.
• Logging into a different Nintendo Account. For digital purchases, the upgrade is tied to the account that bought the game. If you log into a different account, you won’t see the upgrade.
• Not inserting the game card. For physical copies, the game card must be inserted into the Switch 2 to access the upgrade. If you removed it, the console will treat the game as unowned.
• Looking for a separate game icon. The upgrade does not create a separate icon. It modifies the original game’s icon. If you see two icons, you may have accidentally downloaded a demo or a different version.
• Assuming save data transfers automatically. While save data is compatible, it does not automatically move to the Switch 2 unless you’ve used the “Transfer Your Save Data” feature in System Settings. If you start a new game on the Switch 2 before transferring, you’ll have two separate saves.

Tips

• Transfer your save data first. Before upgrading, use the built-in save data transfer tool (System Settings → Data Management → Transfer Your Save Data) to move your Pokémon Legends: Z-A save from your original Switch to your Switch 2. This ensures you don’t lose progress.
• Use a wired internet connection. The upgrade is large. If possible, dock your Switch 2 and use a LAN adapter for a faster, more stable download.
• Keep the game card inserted. For physical copies, you must keep the game card in the console to play the Switch 2 Edition. If you remove it, the game will not launch.
• Check for updates. After installing the upgrade, go to System Settings → System → System Update to ensure your Switch 2 is running the latest firmware. Some upgrades require a specific firmware version.
• Redeem exclusive bonuses. The Switch 2 Edition includes in-game items like a special outfit or a Mythical Pokémon. Check your in-game Mystery Gift menu after the upgrade to claim them.

Troubleshooting

• Upgrade not showing in eShop. If you can’t find the upgrade, make sure your game is fully updated. Go to the game’s icon, press +, select “Software Update,” and choose “Via the Internet.” Also, verify you’re on a Switch 2 and logged into the correct account.
• Download stuck or fails. Restart your Switch 2 by holding the power button and selecting “Power Options” → “Restart.” Then try the download again. If it still fails, check your internet connection and free storage space.
• Game still runs in original mode after upgrade. This usually means you launched the wrong icon. Go to the home menu, highlight the game, press +, and select “Software Information.” If it says “Version 1.0.0” and not “Switch 2 Edition,” you haven’t installed the upgrade. Repeat the eShop steps.
• Save data not appearing. If your save data doesn’t show up, you need to transfer it from your original Switch. Use the “Transfer Your Save Data” feature in System Settings on both consoles. If you already started a new game, you can still transfer the old save, but it will overwrite the new one.
• Error code 2124-3080 (or similar network errors). This indicates a network problem. Power cycle your router, then test your connection in System Settings → Internet → Test Connection. If the error persists, wait a few hours and try again, as Nintendo’s servers may be busy.
• Game card not recognized. Clean the gold contacts on the game card with a soft, dry cloth. Insert it firmly until it clicks. If it still isn’t recognized, try another game card to confirm the console’s card reader works.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I have to pay for the Switch 2 Edition upgrade?
A: No, the upgrade is free for anyone who owns the original Pokémon Legends: Z-A, whether physical or digital.

Q: Will my save data from the original Switch work on the Switch 2 Edition?
A: Yes, your save data is compatible. You can transfer it using the System Settings → Data Management → Transfer Your Save Data feature on both consoles.

Q: Can I play the Switch 2 Edition on my original Switch?
A: No, the Switch 2 Edition is exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2 console. It will not run on the original Switch.

Q: What bonuses do I get with the Switch 2 Edition?
A: The upgrade includes visual enhancements (like higher resolution and better textures), faster loading times, and exclusive in-game items such as a special outfit and a Mythical Pokémon (often Diancie). Check the official announcement for the exact current bonus.

Q: Do I need to keep the game card inserted after upgrading?
A: Yes, if you own a physical copy, you must keep the game card inserted in the Switch 2 to play the game, even after the upgrade is installed.

Q: What if I bought the game digitally on one account but want to play on another?
A: The upgrade is tied to the Nintendo Account that purchased the game. You can only access it on that account. Other accounts on the same console can play the game, but they won’t get the Switch 2 Edition bonuses unless the primary account has the upgrade.

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