To delete save data in Pokémon Scarlet, you must use the Nintendo Switch System Settings, as no in-game delete function is documented for this title. This is the only official method to permanently erase your save data and start a new game.
How to delete save data in Pokémon Scarlet
The only documented way to delete save data for Pokémon Scarlet is through the console's system menu. Follow these steps exactly to permanently erase your save file:
- From the HOME Menu, select System Settings.
- Scroll down and select Data Management, then select Delete Save Data.
- If prompted, enter your Parental Controls PIN.
- Select the game title Pokémon Scarlet from the list.
- If available, select the User whose save data you want to delete, or select Delete All Save Data for this Software.
- To confirm, select Delete Save Data.
On a physical cartridge, you can reset save data by removing the cartridge, holding down a save data reset button (if available) for a few seconds, then reinserting it. Nintendo states that deleted save data cannot be recovered. This process works identically on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. No separate iPhone, Android, emulator, cartridge, or ROM-specific delete procedure is documented on the official Nintendo support page.
What happens when you delete your save data
Deleting your save data removes all progress permanently, including all Pokémon, items, badges, and game time. There is no way to undo this action. Deleting save data can be beneficial if you encounter glitches or issues in your current save file. When you restart Pokémon Scarlet after deletion, the game will behave as if played for the first time, prompting you to create a new save file and begin a fresh adventure. The game title shown on the save-data list is Pokémon Scarlet.
Before you delete: what to check
Before proceeding, confirm the following to avoid losing data unintentionally:
- Multiple user profiles: If your Nintendo Switch has multiple user accounts, you can delete save data for a single user or for all users, depending on the prompt shown. Make sure you select the correct profile.
- Parental Controls PIN: If Parental Controls are enabled on your console, you will need the PIN to complete the deletion. Without it, you cannot delete save data through System Settings.
- No backup available: Nintendo does not provide an official way to back up or restore save data for Pokémon Scarlet. Once deleted, the data is gone permanently. There is no cloud save or external backup option documented for this game.
If you want to start over but are unsure about losing your current progress, consider whether you truly want to delete switch save data. The process is irreversible, so be certain before confirming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I delete save data from inside Pokémon Scarlet?
No. The only official method is through the Nintendo Switch System Settings.
Will deleting save data on my Switch affect other games?
No. Deleting save data for Pokémon Scarlet only removes the save file for that specific game. Save data for other games on your console will not be affected.
Will deleting save data affect my progress in the game?
Yes, it removes all progress including obtained Pokémon, items, and achievements.
Can I transfer my Pokémon to another game before deleting?
Yes, if you have access to Pokémon HOME, you can move your Pokémon from Scarlet to HOME before deleting your save data. Once the save is deleted, those Pokémon will no longer be accessible in the game, but they will remain in your HOME account.
What if I am using an emulator or ROM?
No official Nintendo support documentation exists for deleting save data on emulators, ROMs, or mobile devices for Pokémon Scarlet. The steps vary by emulator and are not provided by Nintendo.
Is there a way to recover deleted save data?
No. There is no official backup or restore feature for Pokémon Scarlet save files.
