Pokémon Scarlet Save Data Loss Highlights Risks of Switch System Transfers

Pokémon Scarlet Save Data Loss Highlights Risks of Switch System Transfers A recent incident involving a longtime Pokémon fan has cast a spotlight on the potential pitfalls players face when transferring save data between Nintendo Switch consoles.

According to a now-removed post on Reddit—which was acknowledged by outlets such as IGN—a user reported the loss of "20 years’ worth of data" spanning multiple generations of Pokémon games after conducting a system transfer from one Switch console to another. The affected player, identified online as ThatOtaku26, detailed their process: they performed the initial setup and data migration from a previous Nintendo Switch (OLED model) to a new console, reportedly without any issues.

While all other titles retained their save files, the player discovered that their Pokémon Scarlet save had vanished.

Instead of loading their long-cultivated save, Scarlet prompted them to start a new game, displaying the language selection and character creation screens.

Heartbreakingly, the lost file was said to have contained Pokémon transferred all the way from the Game Boy Advance era—representing a significant personal history with the franchise. In the user’s own words, they shared: “I started up my new Switch, completed the data transfer without problems, but my Scarlet save file was gone.

There were no errors, and all my other Pokémon games kept their data—except Scarlet.

My Pokémon from generations back are gone, and I’m not sure I even want to play anymore.” This incident has once again highlighted a known limitation of the Pokémon series on Nintendo Switch: not all titles support Nintendo Switch Online’s cloud save function.

Unlike most other games on the platform, core Pokémon RPGs—including Pokémon Scarlet and Violet—are excluded from cloud backup, leaving local storage and third-party backup solutions as the only options. For players looking to protect their cherished collections, The Pokémon Company and Game Freak provide Pokémon HOME, a cloud-based storage service compatible with modern titles.

Several community members pointed out that using Pokémon HOME to back up valuable creatures is the safest method available.

One Reddit user succinctly noted, “We’ve known that transferring important Pokémon to HOME is the only way to ensure their safety in cases like this or if a console breaks.” However, sympathy remains for those caught unaware.

Another member of the community commiserated, admitting that they too experienced a similar loss and "tears were shed" over the lost Pokémon. While the exact cause of the missing data in this instance remains undetermined, this situation stands as a vital reminder for Pokémon fans: before performing any console migration, make sure to transfer your prized Pokémon to Pokémon HOME.

The service, launched by The Pokémon Company to complement titles such as Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet on the Nintendo Switch, ensures that long-standing collections remain protected, regardless of hardware changes.

For the gaming community, incidents like this underline the importance of regular backups and understanding the limitations of specific titles.

Until cloud save support is universally adopted, tools like Pokémon HOME are not just conveniences—they're essential for any Pokémon master wishing to preserve their digital legacy.

Pokémon Nintendo Switch Nintendo Pokémon Scarlet Switch Pokémon HOME console Nintendo Switch Online The Pokémon Company Game Freak