Update Games On CFW Switch: The Complete Guide

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Update Games on CFW Switch: The Complete Guide

Hey guys! Keeping your games up-to-date on a CFW (Custom Firmware) Nintendo Switch might seem a bit daunting at first, but trust me, it's totally doable and, dare I say, kinda fun once you get the hang of it. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to keep your game library fresh and exciting. Let's dive in!

Why Update Games on Your CFW Switch?

Before we get into the how, let's talk about the why. Why bother updating your games anyway? Well, there are several compelling reasons:

  • Bug Fixes: Game developers are constantly squashing bugs and glitches that can impact your gameplay experience. Updates often include critical fixes that make the game run smoother and more reliably.
  • New Content: Who doesn't love free stuff? Many game updates include new levels, characters, items, and features that can significantly extend the lifespan of your favorite games. Keeping your games updated ensures you don't miss out on any of this awesome new content.
  • Improved Performance: Updates can also optimize game performance, leading to better frame rates, reduced loading times, and an overall more enjoyable gaming experience. Nobody wants to play a laggy game, right?
  • Online Play Compatibility: If you're planning on playing online with friends or other players, you'll almost always need to be on the latest version of the game. Updates ensure that you can connect to online servers and participate in multiplayer matches without any issues.
  • Security Patches: While less common, some game updates also include security patches that protect your system from potential vulnerabilities. Keeping your games updated can help keep your Switch and your data safe.

So, updating your games is pretty important! Now, let's get to the good stuff: how to actually do it on your CFW Switch.

Methods to Update Games on CFW Switch

There are several methods to update your games on a CFW Switch, each with its own pros and cons. Here are the most common approaches:

1. Using Awoo Installer/DBI

Awoo Installer and DBI are homebrew applications that allow you to install and manage game files on your Switch. They can also be used to update your games. DBI in particular is super versatile and user-friendly, making it a popular choice.

How to do it with DBI

  1. Download DBI: Grab the latest version of DBI from its official source (usually a GitHub repository).
  2. Copy to Switch: Copy the dbi.nro file to the /switch/ folder on your Switch's SD card.
  3. Run DBI: Launch DBI from the Homebrew Menu on your Switch.
  4. Connect to PC: Connect your Switch to your PC using a USB cable. DBI will present several options; choose "Run MTP responder". This will allow your PC to see your Switch's SD card as a drive.
  5. Update via PC: On your PC, you can now use a program like Nut to transfer the update files (usually in .nsp format) directly to your Switch via USB. DBI will automatically install them.
  6. Alternative: Update via SD card: You can also copy the .nsp update files to your SD card and use DBI to install them directly from the SD card.

Why this is cool: DBI is very stable, updates fast, and keeps your Switch organized! Plus, it supports multiple installation methods

2. Using Tinwoo Installer

Tinwoo Installer is another popular homebrew application for installing and updating games on your CFW Switch. It's similar to Awoo Installer and DBI, but it has its own unique features and user interface.

How to do it with Tinwoo Installer

  1. Download Tinwoo Installer: Download the latest version of Tinwoo Installer from a reliable source.
  2. Copy to Switch: Copy the tinwoo.nro file to the /switch/ folder on your Switch's SD card.
  3. Run Tinwoo Installer: Launch Tinwoo Installer from the Homebrew Menu on your Switch.
  4. Select Update: Navigate to the option that allows you to install from SD card or USB. Choose the location where you have the .nsp update files.
  5. Install: Select the update file and follow the on-screen instructions to install it.

3. Using Goldleaf

Goldleaf is an older but still functional homebrew application for managing game files on your Switch. While it might not be as actively developed as Awoo Installer or DBI, it can still be used to update your games.

How to do it with Goldleaf

  1. Download Goldleaf: Download the latest version of Goldleaf from its official source.
  2. Copy to Switch: Copy the Goldleaf.nro file to the /switch/ folder on your Switch's SD card.
  3. Run Goldleaf: Launch Goldleaf from the Homebrew Menu on your Switch.
  4. Navigate to Update: Use Goldleaf's file browser to navigate to the location of the .nsp update file on your SD card.
  5. Install: Select the update file and choose the option to install it.

4. Using CDNSP

CDNSP is a homebrew application that allows you to download game updates directly from Nintendo's servers. This method requires you to have your Switch connected to the internet and configured with the correct title keys.

How to do it with CDNSP

  1. Download CDNSP: Download the latest version of CDNSP from a trusted source.
  2. Copy to Switch: Copy the cdnsp.nro file to the /switch/ folder on your Switch's SD card.
  3. Run CDNSP: Launch CDNSP from the Homebrew Menu on your Switch.
  4. Configure Title Keys: Make sure you have the correct title keys set up in CDNSP's settings. This is crucial for CDNSP to be able to download updates from Nintendo's servers. This step can be a bit technical, so make sure you follow the instructions carefully.
  5. Download Updates: Use CDNSP to browse for updates for your installed games and download them directly to your Switch.
  6. Install Updates: Once the updates are downloaded, use CDNSP to install them.

Why this is risky: You need Title Keys, and going online with CFW can risk a ban. However, it's convenient if you know what you're doing!.

5. Manually Installing Updates (.NSP Files)

This method involves downloading the update files (usually in .nsp format) from a third-party source and then installing them using a homebrew application like Awoo Installer, DBI, or Goldleaf.

How to do it manually

  1. Find .NSP Files: Find the .NSP update file for your desired game. Be cautious of where you download these files from, as they can sometimes contain malicious software.
  2. Copy to SD Card: Copy the .nsp file to your Switch's SD card.
  3. Install with Homebrew: Use Awoo Installer, DBI, or Goldleaf to install the .nsp file. Follow the instructions for each application as described above.

Why this is tricky: Finding safe .NSP files can be hard, and you need a separate installer. However, it works offline and gives you more control!.

Step-by-Step Guide: Updating Games Using DBI

Let's walk through a detailed example of how to update your games using DBI, as it's one of the easiest and most reliable methods.

What You'll Need:

  • A CFW Nintendo Switch
  • An SD card with sufficient free space
  • A USB cable
  • DBI installed on your Switch
  • The .nsp update files for the games you want to update

Instructions:

  1. Download the .nsp Update Files: Find and download the .nsp update files for the games you want to update. Make sure you download them from a trusted source.
  2. Copy DBI to Your Switch: If you haven't already, download the latest version of DBI and copy the dbi.nro file to the /switch/ folder on your Switch's SD card.
  3. Launch DBI: Launch DBI from the Homebrew Menu on your Switch. To access the Homebrew Menu, you usually need to launch an application like the Album while holding down the R button.
  4. Connect to PC via MTP: In DBI, select the