How To Update Games On CFW Nintendo Switch: A Simple Guide

Nov 8, 2025 by Admin 59 views

Hey guys! Updating your games on a CFW (Custom Firmware) Nintendo Switch might seem a bit daunting, but trust me, it's totally doable and pretty straightforward once you get the hang of it. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you can keep your favorite titles up-to-date without any headaches. Let's dive in!

Understanding CFW and Game Updates

Before we get started, it's essential to understand what CFW is and why updating games on a CFW Switch is different from a regular, unmodified console. CFW, or Custom Firmware, allows you to run unauthorized software, including homebrew applications and custom game modifications. This opens up a world of possibilities, but it also means you need to be a bit more careful when updating games.

The main reason for this caution is that Nintendo's official updates are designed for unmodified consoles. Applying these updates directly to a CFW Switch can lead to various issues, such as bricking your console (rendering it unusable) or losing your CFW setup. Therefore, you need to use alternative methods to update your games safely.

There are several methods to update games on a CFW Nintendo Switch, and we'll cover the most common and reliable ones. These include using homebrew applications like Tinfoil or Awoo Installer, which allow you to download and install updates directly to your Switch. We'll also discuss how to manually update games using files from your computer. So, whether you're a seasoned CFW user or just starting, this guide has got you covered.

Method 1: Using Tinfoil to Update Games

Tinfoil is a popular homebrew application that simplifies the process of installing and updating games on a CFW Nintendo Switch. It acts as a package manager, allowing you to browse, download, and install games and updates directly from various sources. Here’s how to use Tinfoil to update your games:

Install Tinfoil: If you haven't already, you'll need to install Tinfoil on your Nintendo Switch. This usually involves copying the Tinfoil .nro file to the switch folder on your SD card and launching it through the Homebrew Menu.
Configure Tinfoil: Once Tinfoil is installed, you'll need to configure it to access game update sources. These sources are typically online shops or repositories that host game files. You can add these sources by editing the config.ini file in the Tinfoil directory on your SD card. Add the URLs of the shops you want to use.
Launch Tinfoil: Open Tinfoil from the Homebrew Menu on your Nintendo Switch. You should see a list of available shops or sources.
Browse for Updates: Navigate through the Tinfoil interface to find the games you want to update. Tinfoil usually has a dedicated section for updates, making it easy to see which of your installed games have new versions available. Look for options like "Updates" or "New Releases."
Download and Install Updates: Select the game you want to update and choose the option to download and install the update. Tinfoil will handle the rest, downloading the update files and installing them to your Switch. Make sure you have enough free space on your SD card for the update.
Verify the Installation: After the update is installed, launch the game to ensure it's working correctly. Check for any new features or changes that come with the update. If you encounter any issues, try reinstalling the update or checking for alternative sources.

Tinfoil is a convenient and user-friendly way to keep your games updated on a CFW Nintendo Switch. It eliminates the need to manually download and transfer files, making the process much smoother.

Method 2: Using Awoo Installer to Update Games

Awoo Installer is another excellent homebrew application for installing and updating games on your CFW Nintendo Switch. Similar to Tinfoil, it allows you to install games and updates directly from various sources. Here’s how to use Awoo Installer to update your games:

Install Awoo Installer: Download the Awoo Installer .nro file and copy it to the switch folder on your SD card. Launch it through the Homebrew Menu.
Configure Awoo Installer: Awoo Installer also requires configuration to access game sources. This is typically done by adding shop URLs or mounting network drives. You may need to install additional packages, such as aio-switch-updater, to access certain features.
Launch Awoo Installer: Open Awoo Installer from the Homebrew Menu on your Nintendo Switch. You should see a list of options for installing games and updates.
Browse for Updates: Navigate to the update section in Awoo Installer. This might be labeled as "Updates" or "Available Updates." Awoo Installer will scan your installed games and show you which ones have updates available.
Download and Install Updates: Select the game you want to update and choose the option to download and install the update. Awoo Installer will download the update files and install them to your Switch. Ensure you have enough free space on your SD card.
Verify the Installation: After the update is installed, launch the game to ensure it’s working correctly. Check for any new features or changes that come with the update. If you encounter any issues, try reinstalling the update or checking for alternative sources.

Awoo Installer is a reliable alternative to Tinfoil, offering similar functionality and ease of use. It's a great option if you're looking for another way to manage your game updates on your CFW Switch.

Method 3: Manually Updating Games

If you prefer a more hands-on approach or if you're having trouble with homebrew applications, you can manually update your games. This involves downloading the update files to your computer and then transferring them to your Nintendo Switch. Here’s how to do it:

Find the Update Files: Locate the update files for the game you want to update. These files are typically in .nsp format and can be found on various online forums or websites. Be sure to download the correct update version for your game and region.
Download the Update Files: Download the .nsp update file to your computer. Ensure that the source is reputable to avoid downloading corrupted or malicious files.
Transfer the Update Files to Your SD Card: Connect your Nintendo Switch to your computer using a USB cable or remove the SD card from your Switch and insert it into your computer. Copy the .nsp update file to the switch folder on your SD card.
Install the Update Using DBI: DBI is a tool for installing content on your Nintendo Switch via MTP (Media Transfer Protocol). Launch DBI from the Homebrew Menu.
Navigate to the Update File: In DBI, navigate to the folder where you copied the .nsp update file on your SD card. Select the file.
Install the Update: Choose the option to install the update. DBI will install the update to your game. This process may take a few minutes, depending on the size of the update.
Verify the Installation: After the update is installed, launch the game to ensure it’s working correctly. Check for any new features or changes that come with the update. If you encounter any issues, try reinstalling the update or checking for alternative update files.

Manually updating games requires a bit more effort, but it gives you greater control over the update process. It’s a good option if you’re comfortable working with files and folders and want to avoid using homebrew applications.

Important Considerations

Before you start updating games on your CFW Nintendo Switch, keep these important considerations in mind:

Backup Your NAND: Before making any significant changes to your system, such as updating games or firmware, it’s crucial to back up your NAND (the internal memory of your Switch). This backup can be used to restore your Switch to its previous state if something goes wrong.
Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest news and information about CFW and game updates. This will help you avoid potential issues and ensure you’re using the safest and most reliable methods.
Check Compatibility: Before installing any updates, check to make sure they are compatible with your CFW version. Installing incompatible updates can lead to problems with your system.
Use Reliable Sources: Only download update files from reputable sources to avoid downloading corrupted or malicious files. Stick to trusted forums and websites.
Be Patient: Updating games can take time, especially if you’re downloading large files. Be patient and avoid interrupting the process, as this can lead to errors.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best preparation, you might encounter issues when updating games on your CFW Nintendo Switch. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:

Game Won’t Launch After Update: If a game won’t launch after an update, try reinstalling the update or checking for alternative update files. It’s possible that the update file was corrupted during download or installation.
Error During Installation: If you encounter an error during the installation process, make sure you have enough free space on your SD card and that the update file is not corrupted. Try downloading the update file again from a different source.
CFW Issues: If you experience problems with your CFW after updating games, try restoring your NAND backup. This will revert your system to its previous state and should resolve any issues caused by the update.
Compatibility Problems: If you’re having compatibility problems with certain games or updates, try updating your CFW to the latest version. This may resolve compatibility issues and allow you to run the latest games and updates.

Conclusion

Updating games on a CFW Nintendo Switch might seem a bit tricky, but with the right tools and knowledge, it’s a manageable process. By following the methods outlined in this guide and keeping the important considerations in mind, you can keep your favorite games up-to-date without risking the stability of your system. Whether you prefer using homebrew applications like Tinfoil or Awoo Installer or manually updating games, there’s a method that will work for you. Happy gaming, and stay safe!