Cloud Saves are coming to the Nintendo Switch, here’s how they’ll work

Cloud saves, which will allow users to store their save files online as well as on their console, are finally on their way to the Nintendo Switch, thanks to Nintendo’s new online service, the company announced during its September Nintendo Direct.

The new cloud save system will backup players’ saved games automatically. If your Nintendo Switch system breaks or stops working for some reason, your saves will still be fine and you can download them when you sign into a new Nintendo Switch.

While a majority of games, it would seem, will support cloud-based saves through Nintendo’s online service, this isn’t something that will be available for every title. As Nintendo confirmed to Game Informer last week, there are several games that won’t support the system, something the company is doing in hopes of stopping potential cheaters. Games that won’t support cloud saves include Splatoon 2 and Pokémon Let’s Go Evee and Pikachu as well as certain third-party games like NBA 2K19, FIFA 19 and Dark Souls Remastered.

The new cloud saves will only be available through Nintendo’s new online service called Nintendo Switch Online, which will be released on Sept. 18 and will cost $3.99 a month, $7.99 for three months or $19.99 for a 12-month membership. Nintendo is also offering a family membership for the service which will allow you to use two or more accounts for $34.99 a year.