What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Yes. Your existing Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of DANA save from the Nintendo Switch version can be moved to a Switch 2 and played there in the original Switch software. Nintendo lists that version as supported, with “Game behavior … consistent with Nintendo Switch.” Choose System Transfer if you are replacing the whole console, the built-in per-game transfer if you are moving only Ys VIII while both consoles are present, or Save Data Cloud when the consoles are in different places and you have Nintendo Switch Online.
That answer does not confirm compatibility with the separate native Switch 2 release scheduled for February 25, 2027. Nintendo, Nihon Falcom and NIS America have not stated that an original-Switch save imports into that edition or that an upgrade entitlement exists.
Can I transfer my Ys VIII save from Switch to Switch 2?
You can transfer the save to the Switch 2 console and continue using the original Nintendo Switch release of Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of DANA. Nintendo’s US product page marks that game “Supported – Game behavior is consistent with Nintendo Switch.” See the official Nintendo listing.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsThere are three different operations that are often confused:
Popular on Amazon
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
- System Transfer: moves users and their saves as part of replacing one console with another.
- Nearby save-data transfer: moves one user’s Ys VIII save between consoles without requiring Nintendo Switch Online.
- Save Data Cloud: uploads and downloads a supported game’s backup through the same Nintendo Account, requiring a paid Nintendo Switch Online membership.
All three put the save on the Switch 2. None proves that the save can be opened by the separately listed native Switch 2 software.
Which transfer route fits my situation?
Use this comparison before starting. The “source remains” column describes the local save on the old console; Nintendo’s on-screen warnings control the exact result for your accounts and data.
| Route | Both consoles available? | What moves | Nintendo Switch Online | Does the source save remain? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| System Transfer | Yes, during Switch 2 setup | Users and saves together | Not required for the transfer procedure | Depends on Nintendo’s retention rules and the warnings shown; some data can be removed |
| Nearby save-data transfer | Yes | One selected user and Ys VIII save | Not required | No. The source save is deleted after a successful move |
| Save Data Cloud | No; consoles can be apart | A cloud backup for the selected user and software | Required, with an active paid membership | The cloud workflow does not use the cartridge as storage; check the backup date before downloading |
The practical choice is usually determined by two questions: are both consoles in front of you, and do you want every user moved or only one Ys VIII file? System Transfer is a broad migration. Nearby transfer is selective but destructive to the source. Cloud is the option for different locations, but its membership requirement and backup date matter.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minutePC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11What should I prepare before transferring?
Identify which software you intend to run after the move: the original Switch version, not the unreleased native Switch 2 edition. Then prepare the following:
- Both consoles charged and updated when using a direct transfer.
- Internet access on both consoles for System Transfer or nearby save-data transfer.
- The same Nintendo Account on the relevant user profile on both systems.
- The correct Ys VIII user profile, especially if several people play on the original Switch.
- A check of the destination console’s existing Ys VIII save. A nearby transfer can offer to overwrite it, and that overwrite cannot be undone.
- Enough time to read every confirmation screen. Do not confirm a deletion or overwrite merely because the consoles have detected each other.
Before choosing a route, launch Ys VIII on the old Switch and note the user profile that owns the progress. If multiple users have separate files, record which file belongs to whom. For cloud transfer, also check the most recent backup date and upload the desired progress before leaving the source console. A stale cloud backup can be older than the local save you meant to move.
A game card, digital license or microSD card is not a substitute for these steps. Nintendo says save data belongs to the Nintendo Account/user and console, not to the game card. Ordinary local save backups are not supported through simply copying storage media.
How do I move the whole Switch to Switch 2?
Use System Transfer when the Switch 2 is replacing the original console and you want to move users and their saves together. Nintendo recommends starting this during the Switch 2’s initial setup.
Also popular on Amazon
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- Turn on the new Switch 2 and, during initial setup, choose Start System Transfer.
- On the original Switch, open System Settings > System > System Transfer to Nintendo Switch 2.
- Keep both consoles nearby, connect them to the internet and sign in with the same Nintendo Account.
- Follow the prompts on both screens and read each retention warning before confirming.
- After the transfer, launch the original Switch version of Ys VIII on Switch 2 and select the transferred user.
This is not a selective Ys VIII operation: it transfers users and saves as a system move. Nintendo documents separate retention rules. With a local system transfer, cloud-compatible saves can remain on the original Switch, while some data belonging to unlinked users and some non-cloud-compatible data can be removed. Do not assume the old console is always untouched; follow the warnings displayed for your consoles. Nintendo’s preparation guidance is at Nintendo Switch 2 system transfers.
If you intend to keep using the old Switch, do not choose System Transfer simply because it sounds safest. It is designed for a replacement-console scenario and can affect more than Ys VIII. Review the users listed, check the retention messages, and cancel if the displayed result is not what you want.
How do I transfer only my Ys VIII save between nearby consoles?
This is the most precise option when both consoles are available and you want to move one user’s Ys VIII progress rather than every user and save. Nintendo explicitly says a Nintendo Switch Online membership is not required for this feature, so it is the free direct route when you can place the systems together.
- Update both consoles, place them near each other and connect both to the internet.
- On the original Switch, open System Settings > Data Management > Transfer Your Save Data > Send Save Data to Another Console.
- Select the user who owns the Ys VIII save, then select Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of DANA.
- On Switch 2, open System Settings > Data Management > Transfer Your Save Data > Receive Save Data.
- Follow the prompts until the transfer completes, then start the original Switch version on Switch 2.
This operation moves rather than duplicates the file. Nintendo deletes the source save after a successful transfer. If Switch 2 already has a Ys VIII save for that user, you can cancel or confirm an overwrite; an overwrite cannot be undone. If retaining the old console’s playable copy matters, stop and use a supported cloud backup workflow instead of confirming the move. See Nintendo’s save-data transfer instructions.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Nearby transfer is per user and per software, not a way to merge two campaigns. It does not combine an old Switch file with a newer Switch 2 file, and it does not create a second local copy for testing. If the destination already contains progress you care about, cancel before the overwrite prompt and decide which file should be preserved.
How do I use Save Data Cloud when the consoles are apart?
Save Data Cloud is the remote option for the original Switch software. Nintendo’s Ys VIII listing marks Save Data Cloud as supported, but the feature requires an active paid Nintendo Switch Online membership and the same Nintendo Account on both systems.
- On the original Switch HOME Menu, highlight Ys VIII and press + or −.
- Choose Save Data Cloud, select the relevant user and choose Back Up Save Data.
- Wait for the upload to finish, then check that the backup shown is the progress you want to carry forward.
- On Switch 2, highlight the original Switch version of Ys VIII and open its Save Data Cloud screen for the same user.
- Choose Download Save Data and confirm only after checking which local progress will be replaced.
Cloud support is a property of the particular software. A cloud backup made by the Switch version is not evidence that the future native Switch 2 release can consume it. Nintendo’s cross-system guidance is available at How to play your games across multiple systems.
Also popular on Amazon
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
The membership is therefore optional for the overall move, not mandatory for every method. If both consoles are together, nearby transfer avoids the subscription requirement. If they are separated, the paid membership is the supported way to place a backup in the cloud, but it still does not turn the original save into a native Switch 2-version save.
Why doesn’t moving the cartridge or microSD card transfer my save?
The game installation and the save are separate. Inserting the Ys VIII card into Switch 2, reinstalling the digital game, moving a microSD card, or loading the same digital license does not by itself move the save.
- Game card: carries the game software, not the console user’s ordinary save.
- microSD or microSD Express card: can hold compatible software data, but it is not Nintendo’s save-transfer mechanism.
- Digital redownload: restores access to the software under the account; it does not recreate a missing local save.
Use System Transfer, nearby save-data transfer or Save Data Cloud instead. Nintendo’s support explanation of save ownership and multi-system play is at Nintendo Support.
This distinction also explains why buying a second card, moving storage between consoles or reinstalling after a reset cannot repair a missing campaign. First restore the correct user and save through Nintendo’s transfer menus; only then install or launch the game.
Will my Switch save work in the native Switch 2 version?
That cross-version import remains unconfirmed. Nihon Falcom announced a separate Switch 2 release on October 21, 2026, and Nintendo lists February 25, 2027 as its US release date. The announcement describes improved graphics, support for up to 120 frames per second, Spanish text and two-player cooperation through GameShare. Those are features of the new software, not a statement that it reads an original-Switch save.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
The Nintendo, Nihon Falcom and NIS America pages reviewed for this release do not specify an original-Switch-to-native-Switch-2 save import path. They also do not establish whether an upgrade entitlement exists. Save Data Cloud badges on both product listings do not resolve that question: cloud compatibility can be listed separately for each software version.
Until the publisher gives specific cross-version instructions, keep treating these as two choices:
Also popular on Amazon
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Widely Compatible: Transform any USB-C port into a USB-A port and USB-A port into a USB-C port, and connect up a wide range of USB-C(including MacBook, iPad Pro/Air/Mini, iPhone models with USB C ports, Samsung Galaxy series, and Google Pixel series. ) and USB A devices(including external hard drives, phones, mice, printers, and more)
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
| Choice | What is established | What is not established |
|---|---|---|
| Original Switch version on Switch 2 | Playable on Switch 2; your transferred Switch save can continue there | Native Switch 2 enhancements such as 120 fps or Spanish text |
| Native Switch 2 release | Separate software scheduled for February 25, 2027, with the announced feature set | Import of the original Switch save and any upgrade entitlement |
Do not buy the new release solely on the assumption that your existing progress will appear in it. Recheck the publisher’s statement when the game launches. Conversely, do not assume that the absence of an announced import means an import is impossible; it simply has not been specified.
Do I need to buy a Switch 2 edition to keep playing?
No. The original Switch version is the one Nintendo currently confirms as supported on Switch 2, so transferring that software’s save lets you continue without treating the native edition as a required upgrade.
Recommended Free Tools
NIS America lists a physical Switch 2 Special Edition game-key card with a store-exclusive bandana. Its US store displayed a US$49.99 preorder price when checked October 30, 2026. That price and edition describe a new product, not a save-transfer service, and prices or contents can change before release. The listing is at NIS America’s store.
The Special Edition is therefore a purchasing choice, not a technical requirement. An Amazon search for “Ys VIII Switch 2 Special Edition game-key card” may find listings, but the verified offer is the NIS America store listing; buying from any retailer does not perform a console transfer. Check the current publisher listing for price, contents and release information.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What should I do if the transfer fails or the wrong save appears?
Most problems come from selecting the wrong route, user or backup. Work through these checks without deleting anything:
- The consoles do not see each other: update both systems, connect both to the internet, keep them nearby and verify that the intended Nintendo Account is signed in.
- The Ys VIII save is missing from the list: confirm you selected the user profile that created it and that you are working with the original Switch software.
- The destination asks to overwrite: cancel if the existing Switch 2 progress matters. An overwrite from nearby transfer cannot be undone.
- The cloud backup is old: return to the source console, open Ys VIII’s Save Data Cloud menu and create a fresh backup before downloading anything.
- You expected the old save to remain: nearby transfer intentionally deletes its source. Choose a cloud workflow when you need a remote backup, and read System Transfer’s retention warnings for account-specific exceptions.
- You moved a card or SD storage only: redownload or insert the game, then perform one of Nintendo’s supported save-data operations.
- The game opens as a new campaign: close it, verify the selected user on Switch 2, and make sure you launched the original Switch listing rather than assuming similarly named software is interchangeable.
Do not start a second transfer while an earlier operation is still showing a confirmation or error screen. Note which console is currently the source, which user was selected and whether the destination already had local progress; those details determine the safest next step.
Which method should I choose?
Choose System Transfer if Switch 2 is replacing the old console and you want the broadest migration. Choose nearby save-data transfer if you need only one Ys VIII user’s file and accept that the original save will be deleted. Choose Save Data Cloud if the consoles are apart, you have Nintendo Switch Online, and you can verify the backup before downloading it.
Also popular on Amazon
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Whichever route you use, launch the original Switch release first on Switch 2. Consider the native 2027 edition a separate purchase until an official statement confirms cross-version save import or an upgrade policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep playing Ys VIII on both Switch consoles after a nearby transfer?
Not with the same local file: Nintendo’s nearby transfer is a move, so the source save is deleted. To preserve access to progress on the old console, stop before confirming that transfer and use a supported cloud-backup arrangement instead.
What happens if two users have separate Ys VIII saves?
A nearby transfer handles the selected user and software save, so repeat the process separately only when Nintendo’s menus present each user’s file. System Transfer is the better fit when the goal is to migrate all users together.
Can I download a Switch-version cloud backup into the native Switch 2 edition?
No official guidance currently confirms that cross-version use. Save Data Cloud support shown on a product page identifies that software’s cloud capability; it does not establish compatibility with another release.
Is the Switch 2 Special Edition required for transferred progress?
No. Nintendo confirms the original Switch version runs on Switch 2, so that is the software associated with the transferred save. The Special Edition is a separately listed game-key-card product, not a transfer requirement.
Do I need Nintendo Switch Online to transfer Ys VIII?
No for System Transfer or nearby save-data transfer. An active paid Nintendo Switch Online membership is required only for the Save Data Cloud route.
Will transferring the save copy it instead of moving it?
Nearby save-data transfer moves the file and deletes the source after success. It does not create a second local copy. Check the destination overwrite prompt carefully.
Does inserting my Ys VIII cartridge into Switch 2 bring back my progress?
No. The cartridge supplies the game software; the save belongs to the user and console. Use Nintendo’s System Transfer, nearby save-data transfer or supported cloud workflow.
What new features are confirmed for the native Switch 2 release?
Nihon Falcom announced improved graphics, up to 120 fps, Spanish text and two-player cooperation through GameShare. Those features do not confirm that an original-Switch save will import.
The Bottom Line
Transfer the save to Switch 2 using System Transfer, nearby save-data transfer or Save Data Cloud, depending on whether you need a whole-console move, a selective local move or a remote backup. Launch the original Switch version afterward. Save import into the separate February 25, 2027 native Switch 2 release and any upgrade entitlement remain unconfirmed.
Quick Recap
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.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →
