How To Update Games On Nintendo Switch CFW (Easy Guide)

Nov 8, 2025 by Admin 56 views

Hey guys! So, you've got a Nintendo Switch running Custom Firmware (CFW), and you're itching to update your games, right? No sweat! Updating your games on a CFW Switch might seem a bit daunting at first, but trust me, it's totally doable and pretty straightforward once you get the hang of it. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to keep your games up-to-date without bricking your console or running into unnecessary headaches. Let's dive in!

Understanding the Basics of CFW and Game Updates

Before we jump into the how-to, let's quickly cover some essential background info. When you're running CFW on your Nintendo Switch, you're essentially bypassing the official Nintendo ecosystem. This means that directly downloading and installing updates through the eShop isn't an option – it could lead to your Switch getting banned or, worse, bricked. So, we need to find alternative methods to update our games safely and effectively.

Why Can't I Just Update Through the eShop?

The eShop is Nintendo's official online store. When you update a game through the eShop, your Switch communicates with Nintendo's servers, verifies your game license, and downloads the latest update. However, when you're running CFW, your console isn't recognized as a legitimate device by Nintendo. Trying to connect to the eShop can flag your console, leading to a ban from Nintendo's online services. Plus, official updates might include system updates that could conflict with your CFW, potentially bricking your Switch.

Safe Methods for Updating Games on CFW

So, what are the safe ways to update your games? There are a couple of primary methods we'll focus on:

Using Homebrew Apps: Several homebrew applications are designed to help you download and install game updates. These apps often source updates from various online repositories, ensuring you get the latest versions without risking a ban.
Manually Installing Updates: You can also download game updates from trusted sources and manually install them on your Switch using tools like Awoo Installer or DBI. This method gives you more control over the update process but requires a bit more technical know-how.

Method 1: Using Homebrew Apps to Update Games

Homebrew apps are your best friend when it comes to managing game updates on your CFW Switch. These apps automate much of the process, making it easier and safer to keep your games current. Let's take a look at some popular options.

Popular Homebrew Apps for Game Updates

Tinfoil: Tinfoil is one of the most well-known and widely used homebrew app for the Nintendo Switch. It allows you to install game updates, DLC, and even full games from various sources. Tinfoil has a user-friendly interface and a large community that keeps its repositories up-to-date.
Awoo Installer: Awoo Installer is another great option for installing game updates and DLC. It supports various installation methods and is known for its reliability and ease of use.
DBI: DBI is a versatile tool that can manage game installations, updates, and even USB installations from your computer. It's a bit more technical than Tinfoil or Awoo Installer but offers a lot of flexibility.

Step-by-Step Guide: Updating Games with Tinfoil

For this guide, let's focus on using Tinfoil to update your games. Here’s how to do it:

Download and Install Tinfoil: If you don't already have Tinfoil installed, you'll need to download the latest version from a trusted source (such as the Tinfoil official website or a reputable homebrew forum). Copy the Tinfoil .nro file to the switch folder on your Switch's SD card.
Launch Tinfoil: Use the Homebrew Menu to launch Tinfoil. If you're using Atmosphere CFW, hold down the R button while launching a game to access the Homebrew Menu.
Configure Tinfoil (if needed): When you first launch Tinfoil, you might need to configure it to connect to a source for game updates. Go to the settings menu and add a source URL. You can find a list of reliable source URLs on various online forums.
Browse for Updates: Once Tinfoil is configured, navigate to the updates section. Tinfoil will scan your installed games and display any available updates.
Install Updates: Select the updates you want to install and press the install button. Tinfoil will download and install the updates automatically. Make sure you have enough free space on your SD card for the updates.
Restart Your Switch: After the updates are installed, restart your Switch to apply the changes. Your games should now be updated to the latest versions.

Tips for Using Homebrew Apps

Keep Your Apps Updated: Make sure you're using the latest versions of your homebrew apps. Developers often release updates to fix bugs, improve performance, and add new features.
Use Trusted Sources: Only download homebrew apps and game updates from trusted sources to avoid malware or corrupted files.
Check for Compatibility: Before installing an update, check online forums or communities to see if other users have reported any issues with the update on CFW. This can help you avoid potential problems.

Method 2: Manually Installing Game Updates

If you prefer more control over the update process or if you're having trouble with homebrew apps, you can manually install game updates. This involves downloading the update files from a trusted source and using a tool like Awoo Installer or DBI to install them on your Switch.

Finding Game Updates Manually

Trusted Forums and Communities: Look for game updates on reputable Nintendo Switch homebrew forums and communities. These forums often have dedicated threads for game updates, where users share update files and installation instructions.
Reliable Websites: Some websites specialize in hosting Nintendo Switch game updates. Make sure the website is trustworthy and has a good reputation before downloading any files.
Check File Integrity: Before installing any update file, verify its integrity by checking its checksum (MD5, SHA-1, etc.). This ensures that the file hasn't been corrupted during download.

Step-by-Step Guide: Manually Installing Updates with Awoo Installer

Here’s how to manually install game updates using Awoo Installer:

Download Awoo Installer: If you don't have Awoo Installer installed, download the latest version from a trusted source and copy the .nro file to the switch folder on your Switch's SD card.
Obtain the Update File: Download the update file for the game you want to update. Make sure the file is in .nsp or .xci format.
Copy the Update File to Your SD Card: Copy the update file to a convenient location on your Switch's SD card.
Launch Awoo Installer: Use the Homebrew Menu to launch Awoo Installer.
Select the Update File: In Awoo Installer, navigate to the location where you saved the update file and select it.
Install the Update: Awoo Installer will prompt you to confirm the installation. Press the install button to begin the installation process.
Wait for the Installation to Complete: The installation process may take a few minutes, depending on the size of the update file. Do not interrupt the installation process.
Restart Your Switch: After the installation is complete, restart your Switch to apply the changes. Your game should now be updated.

Tips for Manual Installation

Double-Check Compatibility: Before installing an update, make sure it's compatible with your game version and CFW setup. Installing an incompatible update can cause issues.
Backup Your Game Saves: It's always a good idea to back up your game saves before installing any updates, just in case something goes wrong.
Read Installation Instructions: Follow the installation instructions provided with the update file carefully. Some updates may require specific steps or configurations.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best preparation, you might run into issues while updating your games on CFW. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:

Update Fails to Install

Insufficient Storage: Make sure you have enough free space on your SD card for the update file and the installation process.
Corrupted File: The update file might be corrupted. Try downloading it again from a different source.
Incompatible Update: The update might not be compatible with your game version or CFW setup. Double-check compatibility before installing.

Game Crashes After Update

Conflicting Mods: If you're using mods, they might be conflicting with the update. Try disabling your mods and see if the game runs properly.
Corrupted Installation: The update might have been installed incorrectly. Try reinstalling the update.
CFW Issues: Your CFW might be outdated or have compatibility issues with the update. Update your CFW to the latest version.

Switch Won't Boot After Update

Damaged System Files: The update might have damaged your system files. Try restoring your Switch from a backup.
Incompatible CFW: The update might not be compatible with your CFW. Try updating or changing your CFW.
Hardware Issues: In rare cases, the update might have triggered a hardware issue. Contact a professional for repair.

Staying Safe and Avoiding Bans

The most important thing when running CFW is to stay safe and avoid getting your Switch banned from Nintendo's online services. Here are some tips to help you do that:

Avoid Connecting to Nintendo's Servers

Enable Incognito Mode: Use Incognito mode in your CFW settings to block your Switch from connecting to Nintendo's servers.
Use Airplane Mode: Enable Airplane mode to prevent your Switch from connecting to the internet.
Avoid eShop Access: Do not access the eShop or any other Nintendo online services while running CFW.

Use Trusted Sources for Homebrew and Updates

Reputable Forums: Stick to reputable Nintendo Switch homebrew forums and communities for downloading homebrew apps and game updates.
Official Websites: Download homebrew apps from their official websites whenever possible.
Check Reviews: Before downloading anything, check reviews and ratings to make sure it's safe and reliable.

Keep Your CFW Updated

Latest Versions: Use the latest versions of your CFW and related tools to ensure compatibility and security.
Follow Developers: Follow the developers of your CFW and homebrew apps for updates and announcements.
Read Changelogs: Read the changelogs of updates to understand what's changed and how it might affect your system.

Conclusion

Updating games on your Nintendo Switch with CFW might seem a bit tricky at first, but with the right tools and knowledge, it's totally manageable. Whether you prefer using homebrew apps like Tinfoil or manually installing updates with Awoo Installer, the key is to stay informed, use trusted sources, and take precautions to avoid getting banned. So go ahead, keep your games up-to-date, and enjoy your modded Switch to the fullest! Happy gaming, guys!