Nintendo Switch Error Code 2137-0020 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Error 2137-0020 means a game or application on your Nintendo Switch failed to launch or crashed during startup. This is typically caused by corrupted game data, an outdated game version, or a microSD card issue. The fix usually involves checking the data integrity or reinstalling the affected title.

Affected Models

Nintendo Switch
Nintendo Switch Lite
Nintendo Switch OLED

Common Causes

The game's installation files have become corrupted on the internal memory or microSD card
The game requires an update that has not been installed yet
The microSD card where the game is stored has errors or is not properly inserted
The game is not compatible with the current system software version
The user account trying to launch the game does not have valid ownership or authorization

How to Fix It

Check for a game update. On the Switch home screen, highlight the game icon, press the + button, and select Software Update > Via the Internet.

An outdated game version is a very common cause of 2137-0020. Installing the latest update often fixes it immediately.
Check for corrupted data. Go to System Settings > Data Management > Software > highlight the game > Check for Corrupt Data.

The Switch will scan the game files and tell you if anything needs to be redownloaded.
Reinsert the microSD card. Power off the Switch, remove the microSD card from the slot on the bottom, inspect it for damage, and firmly reinsert it.

If the game is stored on the microSD card, a loose card is enough to cause launch failures.
Archive and reinstall the game. Go to System Settings > Data Management > Software > select the game > Archive Software. Then redownload it from the eShop.

Archiving removes the game data but keeps the icon on the home screen. Your save data is preserved.
Check that you are signed into the correct Nintendo Account. Some games are tied to a specific account — especially family accounts.

If the game was purchased on a different account, log into that account to play it. Go to System Settings > Users to manage accounts.

When to Call a Professional

Error 2137-0020 is a software issue in the vast majority of cases. If the error persists after reinstalling and the system has been checked, contact Nintendo Support at 1-800-255-3700. Repeat hardware-related crashes may indicate a faulty microSD card or storage issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

If I archive a game, do I lose my save data?

No. Archiving only removes the game software, not your save data. Save data is stored separately on the Switch's internal memory. When you reinstall the game, your saves will be right where you left them.

Why does the error happen with one game but not others?

Each game has its own set of files that can corrupt independently. An interrupted update, a bad microSD write, or a power interruption during install can corrupt one game's files without affecting others. This is why checking and reinstalling just the affected game is usually enough.

Can a low battery cause this error?

Rarely — but a Switch that shuts down mid-launch due to low battery can corrupt the game's launch cache. Always keep your Switch charged above 20% before launching games, especially for first-time installs or updates. If you suspect battery-related corruption, check the data integrity as described in Step 2 above.