Switch error code
Switch Error 2016-0641: Game Won't Start
2016-0641 in one line: A game failed to start on Switch or Switch 2.
Try this first: run System Update, then restart the console.
Try this first: run System Update, then restart the console.
What 2016-0641 means
Nintendo Support says: “Steps for when error code 2016-0641 is received when trying to start a game on Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch.” (official page)
Likely causes
- Out-of-date system software.
- Corrupt game data.
- A problem with the microSD card the game is stored on.
How to fix 2016-0641, easiest first
- Update the system
System Settings > System > System Update. - Restart the console
Hold POWER for three seconds > Power Options > Restart. If it doesn't respond, hold POWER for 12 seconds to force it off, then turn it on. - Check for corrupt data
System Settings > Data Management > Manage Software > choose the game > Check for Corrupt Data. - Delete and redownload
Data Management > Manage Software > Delete Software, then redownload from Virtual Game Cards > Load on This System (Switch 2) or the eShop. Save data stays on the console. - Reseat the microSD card
If the game is on a microSD or microSD Express card, power off, remove and reinsert it, then try again.
| Step | What to do | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Update the system | Official |
| 2 | Restart the console | Official |
| 3 | Check for corrupt data | Official |
| 4 | Delete and redownload | Official |
| 5 | Reseat the microSD card | Official |
When to contact support
If the game still won't start, contact Nintendo Support.
2016-0641 FAQ
Does deleting a Switch game delete my saves?
No. Delete Software removes the game; save data stays unless you delete it separately.
Sources
Other Switch error codes
- 2005-0003: Software can't download; usually a microSD card problem. Applies to Switch and Switch 2.
- 2110-1100: The console can't find a network matching any saved network. Applies to Switch and Switch 2.
- 2618-0513: Matchmaking failed because the network isn't suited to peer-to-peer connections.
- 2168-0002: Software closed unexpectedly, or a Switch to Switch 2 system transfer failed.
- 2162-0002: A system error; restart the console and contact Nintendo if it repeats.
- 2016-0641: A game failed to start on Switch or Switch 2.
Switch troubleshooting guide · All Switch codes · Error code directory