How to Fix Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Connection and Update Problems

If Pokémon Scarlet or Pokémon Violet cannot connect, first note the exact error code, check the Switch’s internet connection, and make sure the game is updated. These problems can come from different layers: the game version, Switch system software, your Wi-Fi or router, or Nintendo’s online service. Work through the checks below in that order; an in-game connection error alone is not a reason to delete or reinstall the game.

Start with the error code and Nintendo’s service status

Write down the full error code and message before changing settings. If the Switch’s internet connection test fails, the console displays its own error code and message; use Nintendo’s instructions for that specific code rather than trying unrelated game fixes. Check Nintendo’s support and service information for maintenance or operational updates before repeating troubleshooting. A connection failure by itself does not establish that Nintendo’s servers are down.

#	Preview	Product	Price
1		Pokémon Scarlet - Nintendo Switch - Standard Edition	$53.70	Buy on Amazon
2		Pokémon Scarlet - US Version	$50.99	Buy on Amazon
3		Nintendo Pokémon Scarlet Standard - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]	$59.88	Buy on Amazon
4		Pokémon Scarlet Bundle - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]	$94.98	Buy on Amazon

Update Pokémon Scarlet or Violet

Game updates are separate from Switch system updates. Nintendo says the game update is required for online features, and everyone playing together needs the same software version. At the time of Nintendo’s update listing, the latest version shown was Ver. 4.0.0, released June 2, 2025; check your console for updates rather than assuming that version will remain the latest.

1. From the HOME Menu, highlight the Pokémon Scarlet or Pokémon Violet icon without opening the game.
2. Press the + or – button.
3. Select Software Update > Via the Internet.
4. After installation, check the displayed game version and compare it with the version used by the people you want to play with.

Nintendo says save data remains available after downloading the update. Automatic installation is also available when the console is online and automatic software updates are enabled. A Nintendo Switch Online membership is required for the game’s online features; membership is a requirement for access, not a fix for a failed network connection. See Nintendo’s Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet update instructions.

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Pokémon Scarlet - Nintendo Switch - Standard Edition

• New Pokémon to Discover - Learn new details about Sprigatito, Fuecoco, and Quaxly—the three Pokémon from which you’ll choose your first partner—along with other wonderful new Pokémon, including the Legendary Pokémon Koraidon and Miraidon!
• The World of Pokémon Has Evolved - Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet offer an open-world experience that only the Pokémon series can deliver—one welcoming even to newcomers to the series.​
• You can experience a new style of adventure, with a world that you’re free to explore at your leisure and not in an order dictated by the story. You will, of course, journey to hone your skills as a Pokémon Trainer, but many more discoveries and stories await you. Meet a variety of people and Pokémon, and adventure in the world of Pokémon the way you want to.
• A Deeper Experience with Multiplayer* Gameplay - Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet allow multiplayer gameplay with up to four players.​ Along with series staples, such as trading and battling Pokémon, you will be able to explore the various locations of the region in these games with other players. You can discover new Pokémon and explore unfamiliar areas with your friends and family, opening the door to an adventure more precious and fun than ever!
• Meet the characters - As one of the main characters, you’ll set off on your adventure. Your outfit will vary depending on whether you play Pokémon Scarlet or Pokémon Violet. Who knows what kind of story awaits you? For the first time in the series, one of two different professors will appear in your game depending on the version you choose to play.

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Update the Switch system software separately

A current game version does not necessarily mean the console system software is current. Nintendo’s system-update route is System Settings > System > System Update. Get the console online, run the system update, then retry the game update. Nintendo notes that restarting the console may help if a connection problem prevents a system update. See Nintendo’s system-update guidance.

Fix error 2-ALZXA-0008 or 2-ALZYA-0008

Nintendo describes these codes as an interruption in communication with the server. It identifies unstable or slow Wi-Fi, wireless interference, unresponsive network equipment, and putting the console into sleep or flight mode during gameplay as possible contributors.

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Pokémon Scarlet - US Version

• Embark on a new Pokémon adventure
• Catch, battle, and train Pokémon in the Paldea Region, a vast land filled with lakes, towering peaks, wastelands, small towns, and sprawling cities.
• Choose either Sprigatito, Fuecoco, or Quaxly, to be your first partner Pokémon before setting off on your journey through Paldea.
• Embark on an independent study called the Treasure Hunt to gain new experiences, meet new people, and find your very own treasure.

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1. Restart the Switch: Hold the POWER button for three seconds, choose Power Options, then Restart.
2. Restart your network equipment: Power cycle the router and other networking devices, then wait for them to reconnect.
3. Move closer to the router: Reduce distance and obstacles between the console and wireless router, then try connecting again.

These are Nintendo’s first listed steps for the two codes. For additional diagnosis, check whether other devices can use the same network and, if available, test the Switch on another network. If the connection works closer to the router or on another network, that points toward the local wireless environment, but it does not prove a particular cause. Keep router changes reversible and ask your internet provider about router-specific settings. Read Nintendo’s guidance for these communication errors.

Use a wired connection only as an optional test

If Wi-Fi remains unreliable, a wired connection can help determine whether the wireless link is involved. Nintendo documents wired internet as an option, but the hardware setup depends on the Switch model and dock: the OLED dock has a LAN port, while other setups may require a compatible USB LAN adapter. Check compatibility for your specific setup before buying anything. A wired connection cannot resolve service maintenance, a game-version mismatch, an account or membership requirement, or insufficient space for an update. Nintendo’s Switch internet connection overview describes its wired and wireless options.

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Nintendo Pokémon Scarlet Standard - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]

• Embark on a new Pokémon adventure
• Catch, battle, and train Pokémon in the Paldea Region, a vast land filled with lakes, towering peaks, wastelands, small towns, and sprawling cities
• Choose either Sprigatito, Fuecoco, or Quaxly, to be your first partner Pokémon before setting off on your journey through Paldea
• Embark on an independent study called the Treasure Hunt to gain new experiences, meet new people, and find your very own treasure

$59.88

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If purchased DLC is missing

If the connection or update problem also affects access to purchased downloadable content, check that both the Switch system software and game software are current. Use the game-update steps above. Nintendo’s DLC guidance focuses on software checks; do not delete save data as a troubleshooting step. See Nintendo’s DLC troubleshooting page.

When to contact Nintendo Support

If the connection test or game still fails after the relevant checks, have these details ready:

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Pokémon Scarlet Bundle - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]

• Only one code for a Hisuian Zoroark can be used in either the Pokémon Scarlet or Pokémon Violet game. Upon purchase of The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero DLC, an email with your code will be sent to the email address registered to your Nintendo Account. From the in-game menu, go to the Poké Portal, then select Mystery Gift, select Get with Code/Password, and then enter your code.
• The Mystery Gift option can be found within the Poké Portal menu option in the X menu after you unlock the feature in the Pokémon Scarlet or Pokémon Violet game. (This occurs after about 1 to 1.5 hours of gameplay, though individual gameplay time may vary.) An internet connection and a Nintendo Account is required to redeem the item in game. A Nintendo Switch Online membership is not required. Each item can only be redeemed once.

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• The complete error code and message.
• The game version and Switch system version.
• Whether other online functions work on the console.
• Which network checks you tried and whether another device or network connected successfully.

Nintendo routes questions about system settings, internet connections, accounts, and downloaded software to technical support; hardware faults and repair questions go to its service center. Use Nintendo’s current support contact page for available routes.

Quick Recap

Bestseller No. 1

Pokémon Scarlet - Nintendo Switch - Standard Edition

$53.70

Bestseller No. 2

Pokémon Scarlet - US Version

Embark on a new Pokémon adventure

$50.99

Bestseller No. 3

Nintendo Pokémon Scarlet Standard - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]

Embark on a new Pokémon adventure

$59.88

Bestseller No. 4

Pokémon Scarlet Bundle - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]

$94.98

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.