The recent debut of the Nintendo Switch 2 proceeded rather seamlessly, particularly for those accustomed to significant console rollouts. Yet, it has not been entirely free from problems.

Specifically, there are difficulties regarding the transfer of data from one Switch to another, particularly in relation to recent Pokémon titles. Some fans have reported (via IGN) that moving data from their previous Switch to their Switch 2 leads to missing Pokémon game saves, which is particularly vexing for one of the few Nintendo franchises that lacks cloud save functionality.

In case you’re not aware, a distinctive aspect of the Pokémon RPG series is the capacity to transfer your cherished pocket monsters from one game to another, albeit with certain exceptions. As noted in a now-deleted Reddit entry, a user lost 1,000 hours of gameplay and two decades’ worth of Pokémon as the Switch 2 data transfer deleted their save file. This loss is, understandably, quite grave. Nevertheless, there exists a method to ensure your beloved creatures are preserved, even if your save is compromised.

For Pokémon enthusiasts concerned about potential losses, the “Pokémon Home” service serves as a dependable alternative. It’s a cloud save solution specifically designed for maintaining creatures across Pokémon games. Free account holders can keep 30 Pokémon simultaneously, but for $2.99/month, you can save up to 6,000, along with various other perks. If you store your prized Pokémon in the Home service, they should remain secure even if there’s an error during the Switch transfer procedure.

While it’s unfortunate that some individuals are losing their Pokémon game saves, there is at least a means to ensure your cherished creatures remain protected. If you do happen to lose everything, well…at least Mario Kart World is quite enjoyable.