Lag, stuttering, and graphical issues can be frustrating while playing Palia on the Nintendo Switch. This guide provides step-by-step instructions to troubleshoot and resolve these performance concerns.
Software Issue
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Power Cycle the Nintendo Switch: Performing a soft reset on the Nintendo Switch console can also address lagging issues during gameplay. Here's a simple guide on how to do it:
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Press and hold the power button for at least 15 seconds.
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Select Power Options, then Power Off.
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Press the power button again to turn it back on after the screen goes dark.
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Install System Update: System updates often include performance enhancements and bug fixes. Once the installation is complete, the console is likely to restart. It's important to have a stable internet connection to avoid interrupting this process, cancelling the update mid-installation could potentially damage the whole installation and might also cause issues in the console if it happens often. To do this, follow this guide:
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Open System Settings.
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Navigate to System, then System Update.
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Allow the Switch to check for updates and install if available.
After the reboot, launch, and play Palia, you can try to check your menu, adjust the camera, and try to play the game as usual. If everything operates smoothly and returns to normal, it can be reasonably concluded that the first two troubleshooting steps has resolved any underlying issues. If it's still persisting, you can proceed with the third step.
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Clear Cache: Accumulated cache data can affect game performance. Clearing the cache for Palia frees up space and resolves potential conflicts, leading to smoother gameplay. Here's how to do it:
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From the Home menu, select System Settings.
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Scroll to Data Management, then Manage Software.
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Choose the game and select "Delete Save Data," then confirm.
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Afterward, select "Archive Software" and confirm.
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Navigate to "Downloadable Content," delete extra content, and select "Redownload" to reinstall from the eShop.
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Check for Corrupted Data: Corrupted game data can cause lag and stuttering. Deleting and re-downloading the game and checking for patches or updates helps eliminate corrupted data issues. To do this, you would need to:
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Navigate to System Settings > Data Management > Manage Software.
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Scroll down, select the game, and choose "Check for Corrupt Data."
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Delete and re-download the game, clear its cache, and check for patches.
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Reinstall Palia on Internal Storage: Installing Palia on the internal storage ensures faster loading times than external storage. Internal storage provides better performance, benefiting overall game navigation and experience.
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Install Palia on the Switch's internal storage for faster loading.
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This is especially beneficial for game performance and navigation.
Hardware Issues
Check Your MicroSD Cards: If you're experiencing lag while playing games, it could be due to issues with your MicroSD card. If your card is slow or corrupted, it can cause lagging and freezing.
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Remove the MicroSD card and play without it to identify if it's causing lag.
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Ensure the MicroSD card meets Nintendo's recommended specifications.
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⚠️It's important to recognize that MicroSD cards vary in performance. Speeds differ between cards, and not all may be suitable for use with the Switch. Nintendo advises the use of MicroSD cards featuring a transfer speed ranging from 60-95 MB/s and a UHS speed class of UHS-I or higher.
If you continue to experience problems after following these steps, you are advised to contact Nintendo support for further assistance you can also follow this link for Official Nintendo Troubleshooting. Hardware or software issues beyond these troubleshooting steps may require specialized attention.