How does the secret save backup feature in Pokemon Sword/Shield work?

How does the secret save backup feature in Pokemon Sword/Shield work? - Yellow Pikachu Plushmascot

Recently I was researching save management in Pokemon Sword/Shield, hoping that the Switch release of the game would finally allow for multiple saves to be created.

Sadly it was not the case (you can use multiple users but if you want to go online every one needs a separate Nintendo Account), but while I was collecting info I came upon an interesting thing about an hidden feature of the game.

By pressing UP, X and B at the same time at the title screen, one can access a second "backup" save slot. I tested the code myself to be sure, and indeed it was true. An option "start with your backup data" was presented.

Backup option

The source didn't specify HOW the backup save works so I'm asking here. It is just the last previous save that was created (either manually or by autosaving) or there are some special rules put in place too? It is obvious that this undocumented feature is a fail-safe meant to be used in case of data corruption, but what are its extends?

I am not really interested in cheats, but as you may understand this seem to have a great potential for duping Pokemons, so I wonder why it doesn't seem to be widespread abused.






Pictures about "How does the secret save backup feature in Pokemon Sword/Shield work?"

How does the secret save backup feature in Pokemon Sword/Shield work? - From above of dollar bills in opened black envelope placed on stack of United states cash money as concept of personal income
How does the secret save backup feature in Pokemon Sword/Shield work? - From above of United States currency folded in roll placed on USA flag illustrating concept of business profit and wealth
How does the secret save backup feature in Pokemon Sword/Shield work? - Clear and Black Cassette Tape on Brown Wooden Surface



How does autosave work in sword and shield?

Autosaving occurs whenever you leave a building, like a Pok\xe9mon Centre. You'll know when it's happening, because, in the top right-hand corner of the screen, you'll see the words 'Now saving\u2026' Once those words have disappeared, your autosave will be complete.

How do I recover my saved data on Pokemon sword?

Upon reaching the Title Screen with the game's logo and some scenery from the game, press UP, X, and B at the same time. If this has been executed correctly, players will be taken to a screen that shows the details of their backup save, with the option \u201cLoad Backup Save File\u201d shown in the bottom right.

How do I backup Pokemon saves?

Guide: How To Load Backup Save Data For Pokemon Brilliant Diamond/Shining Pearl
  • Start Pok\xe9mon Brilliant Diamond or Shining Pearl from the Nintendo Switch home screen. ...
  • Upon reaching the Title Screen with the associated version Legendary, press UP, X, and B at the same time.




  • Get ALL EVENT Shiny \u0026 Normal Mythical Pokemon in Sword and Shield




    Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

    Images: mentatdgt, Karolina Grabowska, Karolina Grabowska, Anthony