Why Does Fortnite Keep Crashing on Nintendo Switch? Troubleshooting Guide

Fortnite crashing on your Nintendo Switch can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you’re in the middle of an intense battle royale match. Several factors can contribute to these crashes, ranging from software glitches to hardware limitations. Let’s explore the common reasons and how to fix them.

Common Reasons for Fortnite Crashes on Nintendo Switch

  • Insufficient System Resources: The Nintendo Switch has limited RAM. Fortnite, being a resource-intensive game, can overwhelm the system if other applications are running in the background or if the system’s memory is fragmented.
  • Corrupted Game Files: Game files can become corrupted due to incomplete downloads, software bugs, or storage issues.
  • Outdated Game Version: Playing on an outdated version of Fortnite can cause compatibility issues and crashes.
  • Overheating: Prolonged gameplay can cause the Nintendo Switch to overheat, leading to performance issues and crashes.
  • Network Issues: Unstable or slow internet connections can cause the game to crash, especially during data-heavy moments.
  • Software Glitches: Bugs within the game’s code or the Switch’s operating system can lead to unexpected crashes.
  • SD Card Issues: If you’re running Fortnite from an SD card, issues with the card’s speed or integrity can cause crashes.

Troubleshooting Steps to Fix Fortnite Crashes

1. Close Other Applications

Ensure that no other applications are running in the background. To do this:

  • Press the Home button to return to the Switch’s main menu.
  • Press the X button to close any suspended software.

Closing other applications frees up RAM, potentially resolving the crashing issue.

2. Restart Your Nintendo Switch

A simple restart can often resolve temporary software glitches. To restart your Nintendo Switch:

  • Hold down the Power button for three seconds.
  • Select Power Options and then Restart.

This clears the system’s cache and restarts all processes.

3. Check for Fortnite Updates

Make sure you’re running the latest version of Fortnite. To check for updates:

  • Highlight the Fortnite icon on the Home menu.
  • Press the + button on your right joycon.
  • Select Software Update and then Via the Internet.

Installing the latest updates ensures you have the latest bug fixes and improvements.

4. Check Your Internet Connection

Ensure you have a stable internet connection. Try the following:

  • Restart Your Router: Power cycle your router by unplugging it, waiting 30 seconds, and plugging it back in.
  • Move Closer to the Router: Reduce the distance between your Switch and the router to improve signal strength.
  • Use a Wired Connection: If possible, use a LAN adapter to connect your Switch directly to the router for a more stable connection.
  • Check Internet Speed: Test your internet speed to ensure it meets the minimum requirements for Fortnite.

5. Clear the Cache

Clearing the cache can help resolve issues caused by corrupted temporary data. To clear the cache:

  • Go to System Settings from the Home menu.
  • Select System and then Formatting Options.
  • Choose Clear Cache and follow the prompts.

Note: Be careful not to choose any other formatting options, as they may erase your saved data.

6. Reinstall Fortnite

If the above steps don’t work, try reinstalling Fortnite. To do this:

  • Highlight the Fortnite icon on the Home menu.
  • Press the + button.
  • Select Manage Software and then Delete Software.
  • Re-download Fortnite from the Nintendo eShop.

Reinstalling ensures you have a fresh copy of the game files.

7. Check Your SD Card (If Applicable)

If Fortnite is installed on an SD card, ensure the card is functioning correctly.

  • Test the SD Card: Use a computer to test the SD card’s speed and integrity.
  • Try a Different SD Card: If possible, try using a different SD card to see if the issue persists.
  • Move Fortnite to System Memory: Move the game to the Switch’s internal memory to rule out SD card issues.

8. Ensure Adequate Ventilation

Overheating can cause crashes. Make sure your Nintendo Switch has adequate ventilation. Avoid blocking the vents on the back of the console.

9. Contact Nintendo Support

If none of the above steps resolve the issue, there may be a hardware problem. Contact Nintendo Support for further assistance.

Conclusion

Fortnite crashes on Nintendo Switch can be caused by various factors, including resource limitations, corrupted files, and network issues. By following these troubleshooting steps, you can identify and resolve the problem, allowing you to enjoy uninterrupted gameplay. Remember to keep your game and system software updated, maintain a stable internet connection, and ensure your console has adequate ventilation to prevent future crashes.